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When Lavan invites Eliezer, saying "pinisi habayis" (I cleared the house) and "mokom lalin" (a place to sleep), what does he mean? The Maharal asks how Lavan knew to remove idolatry before Avrohom's servant arrived. The shiur develops that "mokom" doesn't mean empty space but an affirmative prepared place, and "pinisi" refers specifically to removing idols—showing Lavan's deliberate preparation.
This shiur examines the language of Lavan's invitation to Eliezer in Parshas Chayei Sarah, specifically focusing on two key terms: "mokom lalin" (a place to sleep) and "pinisi habayis" (I cleared the house). The Maharal raises a fundamental question: How did Lavan know to remove the idolatry from his house before Eliezer arrived? This question opens up a deeper analysis of what these phrases actually mean. Rabbi Zweig begins by analyzing the word "mokom" (place). The common understanding treats "mokom" as merely empty space—a vacant spot where someone could sleep. However, the Targum's translation reveals a much richer meaning. When Rivka says "gam mokom lalin" (there is also a place to sleep), the Targum renders it as "af asar kasher lalin"—a place that is fitting or prepared for sleeping. This translation indicates that "mokom" doesn't simply mean empty space, but rather a prepared, suitable place—one that has been made ready with all necessary provisions.
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Bereishis 24:31
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