Ya'akov's Realization
With this background, we can better understand Yaakov's vow to build a Bet Elokim at this site upon his return.
Recall that when Yaakov wakes up, he is suddenly struck by the unique, sacred quality of the spot where he spent the night:
"And Yaakov woke up from his sleep and proclaimed: How awesome is this place (ha'Makom)! This is none other than the house of God [Bet Elokim] and the gate to Heaven [Shaar Ha'Shamayim]." (28:16)Obviously, the vision of angels ascending and descending the ladder (see 28:11-12) leads Yaakov to conclude that this site is "shaar ha'shamayim" - the gateway to heaven. However, what about this site gives Yaakov the impression of being a "Bet Elokim"?
The simplest answer would be to connect the two halves of Yaakov's statement. Namely, the very fact that this site is a 'gateway to heaven' renders it an appropriate place for a 'House of God.' However, Yaakov refers to the site first as "Bet Elokim" and only afterward "shaar ha'shamayim." Furthermore, a careful reading of the pasuk shows that these two qualities stand on their own: "This is none other than Bet Elokim, and this is shaar ha'shamayim." The fact that Yaakov divides his comment into two distinct sections suggests that he has reached two unrelated conclusions.
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