Why the Euphrates Is Called Great for Encircling Israel

Yalkut Shimoni on Torah 21:5

Curated by Arthur·Told by Maggid·

Another interpretation: because the Perat rose up and encircled the whole land of Israel, of which it is written, "For what great nation is there" (Deuteronomy 4:7), it is called great. As the common proverb says: the servant of a king is a king; cleave to the official and they will bow to you.

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