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Why did Yaakov spend fourteen years hidden in the Yeshiva of Shem and Ever before journeying to Lavan? The shiur explains that those years weren't merely to escape Esav's notice but to attain a level of Torah (תורה) learning that gave Yaakov real spiritual protection and strength. The pasuk "Az teilech b'vetach darkecha" reflects that intense immersion in Torah made him invincible—unafraid of Esav or Lavan throughout his journey.
The shiur opens with a Midrash from Rabbi Pinchas in the name of Rav Huna bar Papa that connects Parshas Vayeitzei to a pasuk in Mishlei: "Az teilech b'vetach darkecha"—then you will travel securely on your path, and when you lie down you won't be afraid. The Midrash applies this to Yaakov: "Az teilech b'vetach" refers to "Vayeitzei Yaakov," and "when you lie down, you won't be afraid" refers to not fearing Esav or Lavan. Rabbi Zweig asks several key questions: What is this Midrash addressing? Why does it mention both Esav and Lavan—Yaakov hadn't even met Lavan yet? Why is the order "Esav and Lavan" rather than the chronological "Lavan and Esav"? And most fundamentally, how do we know Yaakov wasn't afraid? Rabbi Zweig suggests that the trip referenced here is not just the physical journey to Charan but encompasses Yaakov's entire sojourn there—it's a round trip, not a permanent move. This explains why both Esav (relevant at departure and return) and Lavan (relevant during the stay) are mentioned. The phrase "when you lie down" indicates sleeping at Lavan's house, showing that even while residing in Lavan's domain, Yaakov had no fear.
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Bereishis 28:10 (Parshas Vayeitzei)
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