Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the name 'Be'er Lachai Ro'i' mean?
A: The name 'Be'er Lachai Ro'i' (בְּאֵר לַחַי רֹאִי) translates to 'the Well of the Living One Who Sees Me.' It refers to Hagar's realization that Hashem sees and cares for her in her distress (Genesis 16:13-14). Rashi explains that this name reflects Divine providence—Hashem sees the suffering of individuals and responds to their needs.
Q: Why is this well important in the Torah?
A: This well is significant because it marks the place where Hagar encountered an angel of Hashem and received a promise about her son Yishmael (Genesis 16:10-12). The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 45:7) connects this well to future events, teaching that it reappears in the lives of our forefathers as a symbol of Divine mercy and sustenance.
Q: Where was Be'er Lachai Ro'i located?
A: The verse states that the well was between Kadesh (קָדֵשׁ) and Bered (בָּרֶד). Rashi notes that Kadesh refers to Kadesh Barnea, a place later associated with the Israelites in the wilderness, while Bered is identified as a location near the Sinai region. The exact spot emphasizes that Divine providence exists even in desolate places.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Hagar's experience at this well?
A: Hagar's experience teaches that Hashem hears the cries of those in distress, even when they feel alone. The Rambam (Hilchot Teshuvah 3:4) derives from this that sincere prayer can bring Divine intervention. Additionally, the Talmud (Rosh Hashanah 16b) highlights that Hashem judges individuals based on their current actions, showing compassion as He did with Hagar.
Q: Does this well appear again in the Torah?
A: Yes, later in Genesis (24:62), Yitzchak is said to have come from 'Be'er Lachai Ro'i,' suggesting that this well remained a spiritually significant place. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 60:14) explains that this location was a place of prayer and connection to Hashem, linking the experiences of Hagar and Yitzchak.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Bereshit 16:14) describes Hagar's experience after fleeing from Sarah and encountering an angel of Hashem in the wilderness. The well she discovers is named "Be'er LaChai Ro'i" ("The Well of the Living One Who Sees Me"), reflecting her recognition of Divine providence.
Explanation of the Well's Name
Rashi explains that the name "Be'er LaChai Ro'i" signifies Hagar's realization that Hashem sees and cares for all beings, even in desolate places. The term "Chai" (Living One) emphasizes that Hashem is the eternal, ever-present G-d who oversees all creation.
Location Between Kadesh and Bered
The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 45:7) notes that the well's location—between Kadesh (a place of sanctity) and Bered (meaning "hail")—symbolizes that Divine providence operates even in transitions between holiness and harsh judgment. Ramban adds that this positioning highlights Hashem's mercy intervening in moments of distress.
Hagar's Spiritual Recognition
Malbim explains that Hagar's exclamation, "Have I also here seen after He who sees me?" reflects her astonishment at experiencing Divine revelation outside the household of Avraham. This teaches that Hashem's presence is not confined to sacred spaces but extends to all who seek Him sincerely.
Halachic and Ethical Insights