Abraham

 (Bereshit / Genesis 12–25)

The story of Abraham is one of the most important stories in the Torah. Judaism does not begin with laws, commandments, or rituals. It begins with a person — a human being who chooses to respond to God. That person is Abraham.

Abraham is not chosen because he is perfect. He is chosen because he is willing to listen, to move, to care for others, and to grow. In Judaism, faith is not about being flawless. It is about walking forward even when the path is unclear.

Abraham’s Search for Meaning

Jewish tradition teaches that Abraham did not grow up knowing God. According to Midrash, he lived in a world filled with idols — objects people worshipped because they wanted power, control, or certainty.

Abraham questioned this world. He searched for meaning and truth. He asked: Who created the world? Who guides it? What does it mean to live a good life?

Judaism teaches that Abraham’s faith begins not with blind belief, but with curiosity and moral thinking. Asking questions is not a weakness in Judaism — it is the beginning of wisdom.

“Lech Lecha” — The Call to Go

God’s first command to Abraham is “Lech lecha” — “Go for yourself.”

God tells Abraham to leave his land, his birthplace, and his father’s home, and to travel to a land God will show him. Abraham does not receive a map. He does not receive guarantees. He is asked to trust.

Judaism teaches that faith often means leaving what is comfortable in order to grow into who we are meant to become. “Lech lecha” is not only about geography — it is about personal growth.

Faith Expressed Through Action

Abraham’s faith is not shown through words alone. It is shown through actions.

Wherever Abraham goes, he builds altars and calls out in God’s name. But more importantly, he lives ethically. He treats others with dignity and respect.

Judaism teaches that belief without action is incomplete. True faith is lived through how we behave toward others.

Abraham and Lovingkindness (Chesed)

One of Abraham’s greatest qualities is chesed — lovingkindness.

The Torah describes Abraham sitting outside his tent in the heat of the day, eagerly looking for guests. When he sees strangers, he runs to greet them, offers food, water, and rest, and treats them with honor.

Jewish tradition teaches that Abraham’s tent was open on all sides to welcome anyone who passed by. This shows that hospitality is not optional — it is central to Jewish values.

In Judaism, caring for others is one of the highest forms of serving God.

Standing Up for Justice

Abraham is also known for his courage to question God.

When God plans to destroy the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham speaks up. He argues on behalf of innocent people, asking again and again if the city can be spared.

This moment teaches a powerful Jewish idea: obedience alone is not enough. God desires justice and moral responsibility. Abraham shows that questioning God in the name of righteousness is an act of faith, not rebellion.

Judaism believes that silence in the face of injustice is not holiness.

The Covenant: Chosenness and Responsibility

God makes a covenant with Abraham, promising descendants and a land. Abraham’s family will become a people with a special role in the world.

Judaism teaches that being “chosen” does not mean being superior. It means having greater responsibility — to model ethical behavior, justice, and compassion.

Abraham is told that his descendants are to be a blessing to all nations. Jewish identity is meant to benefit the world, not separate from it.

Abraham’s Imperfections

The Torah does not hide Abraham’s flaws. He experiences fear, doubt, and makes mistakes — including moments when he does not fully trust God.

Judaism values this honesty. It teaches that holiness comes from growth, not perfection. Abraham becomes great because he continues to learn and respond to God, even after failure.

The Binding of Isaac (Akedah)

One of the most challenging stories in the Torah is the binding of Isaac. Abraham is tested with a command that seems to contradict everything he believes about God and justice.

Jewish tradition does not see this story as praising blind obedience. Instead, it highlights Abraham’s deep struggle and ultimate rejection of human sacrifice. The story ends with God stopping Abraham, affirming that life is sacred.

Judaism teaches that God does not desire cruelty, and that faith must always align with the value of human life.

Abraham’s Legacy

Abraham becomes the father of the Jewish people because he models:

l Faith that involves action

l Kindness to strangers

l Courage to challenge injustice

l Willingness to grow and change

l Responsibility toward the world

The Message for Us Today

The life of Abraham teaches us that:

l Faith is a journey, not a destination

l Questioning can be holy

l Kindness is central to spiritual life

l Being chosen means being responsible

l Imperfection does not disqualify us from greatness

Abraham teaches us that God seeks partners, not perfect people — individuals willing to walk forward, care for others, and bring blessing into the world.