1)
What is the meaning of "va'Yachteru"?
1.
Rashi: They wearied and engaged [in trying to return to the land], like one who is Choter Machteres (digs a tunnel).
2.
Radak: They held the oars to return it to the land. Moving the boat via the oars is like digging in the sea.
2)
Why did they not initially strive to return to the land?
1.
Malbim: They wanted to test if they could return to Yafo. If Hashem wanted to return him to where he fled from, they should be able to return. The sea did not quiet for Yonah did not repent.
