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The Importance of Ownership in Jewish Tradition
The Midrash (Bereishit Rabba 79,7) teaches us that there are three parcels of land over which the nations of the world cannot dispute ownership. These lands belong to Am Yisrael: Me’arat HaMachpeila, Kever Yosef, and Har HaBayit.
Ownership over a parcel of land is proven through a deed of sale. The deeds of sale for these three properties are documented in the Tanach for all eternity. Despite being offered as a free gift, the purchasers (Avraham, Yaakov, and David) insisted on paying for them in full, even if the purchase price was significantly inflated beyond the norm for similar land at the time.
The Story of Me’arat HaMachpeila
Me’arat HaMachpeila, the burial place of Adam and Chava, was discovered by Avraham. After Sarah requested that he purchase the land as their burial place, Avraham paid an exorbitant amount for the supposedly haunted field, demonstrating his commitment to ownership.
Throughout history, there have been disputes over Eretz Yisrael and its holy sites, including challenges from the descendants of Yishmael. However, the Torah clearly states that Avraham gave everything to Yitzchak, solidifying Am Yisrael‘s rightful ownership.
Debunking False Claims
The Yalkut Shimoni recounts a story from the time of Alexander the Great, where descendants of Yishmael, Canaanites, and Egyptians attempted to lay claim to Eretz Yisrael. Through wise arguments, it was proven that the land belongs to G-d alone, and He may give it to whomever He chooses.
Ultimately, the Torah establishes that the Land of Israel belongs to G-d, preempting any eternal territorial disputes.
Trivia Question
Why does the parsha end with Yishmael “falling?”
Answer to Last Week’s Trivia Question
Avraham instructed Sarah to bake “Uggot” cakes for the visiting angels, which were matzot.