Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 15:3 mean when Avram says he has no seed?
A: In Genesis 15:3, Avram (later called Avraham) expresses his concern to Hashem that he has no biological children ('seed') to inherit him. At this point, he assumes his servant Eliezer (referred to as 'one born in my house') would be his heir. This shows Avram's human concern about the fulfillment of Hashem's promise of descendants (Rashi on Genesis 15:2-3).
Q: Why was Avram worried about having an heir in Genesis 15:3?
A: Avram was worried because Hashem had previously promised him great reward (Genesis 15:1), but without children, he didn't see how these blessings could continue after his lifetime. In Jewish tradition, having children is considered essential for passing on spiritual legacy and values (Talmud Yevamot 64a). His concern shows his desire for Hashem's promises to have lasting impact.
Q: Who was the 'one born in my house' that Avram mentions in Genesis 15:3?
A: According to Rashi and other commentators, this refers to Eliezer, Avram's loyal servant (Genesis 15:2). In ancient times, a trusted servant who was part of the household could inherit if there were no children. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 91b) discusses how Eliezer was considered like family, having been 'born' into Avram's household through conversion and service.
Q: How does Genesis 15:3 relate to Jewish beliefs about children?
A: This verse highlights the Jewish value of having children, both biologically and spiritually. The Torah considers children a blessing and continuation of one's legacy. Later in the parsha, Hashem assures Avram he will have biological descendants (Genesis 15:4-5). The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 44:10) explains this shows that one's primary legacy comes through their own children.
Q: What can we learn from Avram's conversation with Hashem in Genesis 15:3?
A: We learn that it's permissible to respectfully express our concerns to Hashem, as Avram did when questioning how the divine promises would be fulfilled. The Rambam (Hilchot Teshuvah 10:2) teaches that sincere dialogue with Hashem is part of developing a relationship with Him. Avram's example shows faith combined with honest questioning.
Avram's Concern About Heirship
The verse (Bereishit 15:3) records Avram's lament that despite Hashem's promises, he remains childless. Avram expresses his distress that his servant Eliezer, described as "one born in my house," stands to inherit him. This reflects Avram's deep yearning for offspring to continue his spiritual legacy.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that Avram misunderstood Hashem's earlier promise (Bereishit 15:1) of great reward. Avram assumed the reward referred to material wealth, but when he saw no child forthcoming, he questioned what value wealth had without an heir. Rashi notes that Avram's statement reflects his primary desire - not material gain, but continuity through righteous offspring.
Ibn Ezra's Perspective
Ibn Ezra observes that Avram's words demonstrate his advanced age and the natural assumption that childbearing was no longer possible. The mention of Eliezer as heir refers to the common practice in ancient times where a trusted servant could inherit if there were no children.
Ramban's Deeper Insight
Ramban explains that Avram wasn't complaining but rather expressing his understanding of the situation. Since Hashem hadn't given him children, he assumed Eliezer would be his heir. This sets the stage for Hashem's response that Avram would indeed have biological offspring. Ramban notes this shows Avram's prophecy was incomplete until clarified by Hashem.
Midrashic Interpretation
The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 44:5) elaborates that Avram saw through astrology that he was not destined to have children. Hashem later tells him to "look toward the heavens" (15:5) - to look beyond natural astrological predictions, as the Jewish people would transcend natural law.
Halachic Implications