Genesis 28:20 - Jacob's conditional Divine plea

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Hebrew Text

וַיִּדַּר יַעֲקֹב נֶדֶר לֵאמֹר אִם־יִהְיֶה אֱלֹהִים עִמָּדִי וּשְׁמָרַנִי בַּדֶּרֶךְ הַזֶּה אֲשֶׁר אָנֹכִי הוֹלֵךְ וְנָתַן־לִי לֶחֶם לֶאֱכֹל וּבֶגֶד לִלְבֹּשׁ׃

English Translation

And Ya῾aqov vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and clothing to wear,

Transliteration

Vayidar Yaakov neder lemor im-yihye Elohim imadi ushemarani baderekh haze asher anokhi holekh venatan-li lechem le'ekhol uveged lilbosh.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיִּדַּ֥ר יַעֲקֹ֖ב נֶ֣דֶר לֵאמֹ֑ר אִם־יִהְיֶ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֜ים עִמָּדִ֗י וּשְׁמָרַ֙נִי֙ בַּדֶּ֤רֶךְ הַזֶּה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָנֹכִ֣י הוֹלֵ֔ךְ וְנָֽתַן־לִ֥י לֶ֛חֶם לֶאֱכֹ֖ל וּבֶ֥גֶד לִלְבֹּֽשׁ׃

Parasha Commentary

Yaakov's Vow and Its Significance

The verse describes Yaakov Avinu making a vow (נֶדֶר) upon leaving Be'er Sheva for Charan. Rashi explains that Yaakov's vow was conditional—he promised to dedicate himself fully to Hashem if his basic needs (protection, sustenance, and clothing) were met during his journey. This reflects Yaakov's humility and recognition of divine providence in all aspects of life.

The Conditions of the Vow

"If God will be with me" - Ramban notes that Yaakov sought assurance of Hashem's presence, as he was leaving the sanctity of Eretz Yisrael for an impure land (Charan).
"And will keep me in this way" - Sforno explains that Yaakov prayed for protection from physical dangers, particularly from Esav and Lavan.
"Bread to eat and clothing to wear" - The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 70:4) highlights Yaakov's modest request—only necessities, not luxuries, demonstrating his trust in Hashem's providence.

The Nature of Yaakov's Vow

The Talmud (Nedarim 32a) discusses whether Yaakov's vow was appropriate. Some opinions suggest that one should not make vows dependent on divine favor, while others defend Yaakov, noting his unique circumstances—fleeing for his life and establishing the future of Klal Yisrael. The Rambam (Hilchot Nedarim 8:13) later codifies that vows should generally be avoided unless made with pure intent, as Yaakov did.

Lessons from Yaakov's Humility

Kli Yakar emphasizes that Yaakov's request for only bread and clothing teaches the value of simplicity and bitachon (trust in Hashem). Unlike materialistic pursuits, Yaakov focused on spiritual growth, setting an example for his descendants to prioritize divine service over worldly comforts.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Ta'anit 4a

The verse is cited in a discussion about the significance of vows and the conditions under which they are made, particularly in the context of Jacob's vow and its implications for future generations.

📖 Berakhot 55b

The verse is referenced in a discussion about the importance of divine protection and sustenance, illustrating Jacob's reliance on God's providence during his journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Yaakov (Jacob) make a vow in Genesis 28:20?
A: Yaakov made this vow after experiencing a prophetic dream at Beit El (Bethel), where he saw a ladder reaching heaven. According to Rashi, Yaakov was expressing his commitment to serve Hashem if He would protect him on his journey to Charan and provide for his basic needs (bread and clothing). This shows Yaakov's humility and recognition of divine providence.

Q: What is the significance of Yaakov asking specifically for 'bread to eat and clothing to wear'?
A: The Ramban explains that Yaakov was not asking for wealth, but only for basic necessities—bread for sustenance and clothing for dignity. This teaches us to prioritize genuine needs over luxuries and to trust in Hashem for our essential requirements, as emphasized in Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers 4:1): 'Who is rich? One who is happy with his portion.'

Q: How does Yaakov's vow apply to us today?
A: Yaakov's vow teaches us the importance of recognizing Hashem's role in our daily lives. Just as Yaakov acknowledged that his safety and sustenance came from Hashem, we too should express gratitude for our basic needs. The Talmud (Berachot 48b) highlights that thanking Hashem for food (like bread) is a fundamental Jewish practice, as seen in Birkat Hamazon (Grace After Meals).

Q: Why did Yaakov say 'If God will be with me'—wasn't he sure of Hashem's presence?
A: Rashi explains that Yaakov was not doubting Hashem's promise (given earlier in the dream) but was expressing humility. He understood that divine protection depends on his own merit and actions. This aligns with the Jewish concept of 'hishtadlut' (effort)—we must do our part while trusting in Hashem's help, as taught in the Talmud (Shabbat 32a).

Q: What is the deeper meaning behind Yaakov's vow in this verse?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 70:3) teaches that Yaakov's vow reflects the eternal covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people. His request for bread and clothing symbolizes Torah (spiritual sustenance) and mitzvot (garments of holiness), as later emphasized by the prophets. This verse thus hints at the Jewish mission to live a life dedicated to Torah values, even in difficult circumstances.