Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Hashem appear to Avraham at the terebinths of Mamre?
A: According to Rashi (Genesis 18:1), Hashem appeared to Avraham at Mamre to visit him after his circumcision (brit milah) and to show him honor. Mamre was the one who advised Avraham to perform the circumcision, so the Divine Presence appeared there to acknowledge his good counsel.
Q: Why was Avraham sitting at the tent door in the heat of the day?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 48:7) explains that Avraham was sitting at the tent door to look for travelers to invite into his home, as he was known for his hospitality. Despite recovering from his circumcision and the intense heat, he wanted to perform the mitzvah of hachnasat orchim (welcoming guests).
Q: What is the significance of the 'heat of the day' in this verse?
A: The Talmud (Bava Metzia 86b) teaches that Hashem made the day unusually hot so that travelers would not be on the road, allowing Avraham to rest after his circumcision. However, when Avraham was distressed at not having guests, Hashem sent the three angels in the form of travelers to fulfill Avraham's desire for hospitality.
Q: How does this verse teach us about Avraham's character?
A: This verse highlights Avraham's exceptional dedication to kindness (chesed). Despite his physical discomfort from the circumcision and the heat, he actively sought opportunities to help others. The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 1:5-6) cites Avraham as the model of going beyond the letter of the law in serving Hashem and doing good for others.
Q: Why does the Torah mention the location 'Mamre' specifically?
A: Rashi (Genesis 18:1) explains that Mamre is mentioned to give credit to Mamre for supporting Avraham's decision to perform the brit milah. The Torah teaches us the importance of acknowledging those who offer proper advice and encouragement in fulfilling mitzvot.
Appearance of Hashem to Avraham
The verse describes Hashem appearing to Avraham at the terebinths of Mamre while he was sitting at the entrance of his tent during the heat of the day. Rashi explains that this appearance occurred on the third day after Avraham's circumcision (brit milah), when Hashem came to inquire about his welfare (bikur cholim). The timing—during the heat of the day—was intentional, as Avraham had deliberately opened his tent to seek wayfarers despite his pain, demonstrating his commitment to hospitality (chesed).
The Location: Terebinths of Mamre
The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 42:8) notes that Mamre was the one who advised Avraham to perform the circumcision, unlike his companions Aner and Eshkol, who hesitated. As a reward, Hashem chose to reveal Himself in Mamre's territory. This teaches the importance of supporting mitzvot and encouraging others in their spiritual growth.
Sitting at the Tent Door
Avraham's position at the tent door symbolizes his readiness to serve both Hashem and guests. The Talmud (Sotah 14a) derives from this that one should emulate Hashem's ways—just as He visited the sick (Avraham after his circumcision), so too should we. Additionally, Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 1:6) emphasizes that Avraham's openness to guests, even in discomfort, reflects the ideal of going beyond the letter of the law (lifnim mishurat hadin).
The Heat of the Day