1. The Repetition of Yaakov’s Departure
The parsha of Vayeitzei opens with Yaakov leaving Be’er Sheva and traveling to Charan. Interestingly, this departure is already mentioned at the end of the previous parsha, where it states that Yaakov left his home. This raises a question: why does the Torah repeat that Yaakov left Be’er Sheva? Rashi addresses this, noting that the verse should have simply stated where Yaakov went, since we already know he left. The repetition seems unnecessary at first glance.2. The Impact of a Tzaddik Leaving
Rashi explains that the Torah’s emphasis on Yaakov’s departure is to highlight the effect a tzaddik—righteous person—has on a community. Even though Yitzchak and Rivka remained in Be’er Sheva, the absence of Yaakov was deeply felt. A tzaddik brings a unique shine, glory, and spiritual influence to his surroundings. When such a person leaves, it creates a noticeable void. Each tzaddik has their own special impact, so even if another righteous person remains in the city, the loss is still significant when one departs.3. The Significance of “From Be’er Sheva”
Despite understanding why it says “he left,” there remains another question: why specify “from Be’er Sheva”? The Torah had already established that they were in Be’er Sheva previously. The Midrash offers insight here by exploring the meaning behind the name Be’er Sheva itself. Earlier in Parshas Toldos, we read about a treaty—a shevuah, or oath—made between Yitzchak and Avimelech, king of the Plishtim (Philistines), over disputes regarding wells. This treaty was actually a continuation of an earlier covenant made between Avraham and Avimelech.4. Avoiding Treaties with Adversaries
The Midrash explains that Yaakov left Be’er Sheva because he wanted to avoid entering into another treaty with the Plishtim. He was concerned that if he stayed, they would approach him for yet another peace agreement. Unlike his forefathers Avraham and Yitzchak, who both made treaties with their adversaries due to their circumstances, Yaakov did not want any such agreements. There is an important historical reason for this: because of Avraham’s treaty with the Plishtim, Bnei Yisrael’s entry into Eretz Yisrael was delayed by seven generations—they were bound by their word not to conquer until that time had passed.5. The Difference Between Yaakov and His Forefathers
Why did Avraham and Yitzchak make treaties while Yaakov refused? The answer lies in their spiritual accomplishments. Avraham had a son like Yishmael and Yitzchak had Esav; neither had fully conquered or transformed the negative forces around them (sitra achra). They subdued these forces but did not eliminate them entirely, so they were compelled to make treaties as a form of coexistence. In contrast, all of Yaakov’s children were tzaddikim. He represented complete spiritual victory over negativity and therefore saw no need for compromise or treaties with adversaries.6. Lessons for Eretz Yisrael Today
This narrative carries an important lesson regarding Eretz Yisrael today: the entire land belongs to Am Yisrael—the Jewish people—without need for treaties or concessions. Since the time of Yaakov, there is no longer any reason for delay or compromise over our connection to Eretz Yisrael. We must openly declare our ownership and not consider giving back any part of it or making agreements that undermine our claim.7. Redemption and Our Connection to Eretz Yisrael
Yaakov’s departure from Be’er Sheva symbolizes leaving behind old compromises and delays in inheriting Eretz Yisrael fully. With this approach, we hope to merit the coming of Moshiach Tzidkeinu—our righteous redeemer—when it will be clear to all nations that Am Yisrael belongs in Eretz Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael belongs to Am Yisrael, together with true peace and redemption speedily in our days.