“On the third day, Abraham lifted his eyes, and saw the place from a distance” (Genesis 22:4). “On the third day, Abraham lifted his eyes” – it is written: “He will revive us after two days; on the third day, He will lift us, and we will live before Him” (Hosea 6:2).1The idea expressed in this verse – that salvation comes on the third day, after two days of hardship or deprivation – is now illustrated with several examples.
“On the third day” of the tribes,2Jacob’s twelve sons are often called “the tribes.” as it is written: “Joseph said to them on the third day, [do this and you shall live]” (Genesis 42:18). “On the third day” of the spies [sent by Joshua], as it is stated: “You shall hide there three days, […and then go on your way]” (Joshua 2:16). “On the third day” of the giving of the Torah, as it is stated: “It was on the third day” (Exodus 19:16).
“On the third day” of Jonah, as it is written: “Jonah was in the innards of the fish three days and three nights” (Jonah 2:1). “On the third day” of those who ascended [to the Land of Israel] from the Diaspora [with Ezra], as it is written: “We remained there three days” (Ezra 8:32). “On the third day” of the revival of the dead, as it is written: “He will revive us after two days; on the third day, He will lift us” (Hosea 6:2).3The verse foretells that the resurrection will take place after a two-day waiting period.
“On the third day” of Esther: “It was on the third day; Esther donned royal raiments [and stood in the courtyard of the king’s house]” (Esther 5:1). She wore the royal raiments of her ancestor’s household.4Esther was a descendant of King Saul. By what merit [did Esther succeed in her mission on the third day]? The Rabbis and Rabbi Levi, the Rabbis say: It was by the merit of the third day on which the Torah was given, as it is stated: “It was on the third day, when it was morning” (Exodus 19:16).
Rabbi Levi said: It was due to the merit of the third day of Abraham our patriarch, as it is stated: “On the third day, [Abraham lifted his eyes].” “And saw the place from a distance” – what did he see? He saw a cloud attached to the mountain. He said: ‘It appears that this is the place where the Holy One blessed be He told me to sacrifice my son.’