Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 18:18 mean when it says Avraham will become a great nation?
A: This verse means that Avraham's descendants, the Jewish people, will grow into a large and powerful nation. Rashi explains that this refers to the Jewish people receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai and becoming a nation dedicated to serving Hashem. The greatness comes from their spiritual mission, not just physical size or strength.
Q: How are all nations blessed through Avraham according to Genesis 18:18?
A: The Rambam teaches that through Avraham's descendants, monotheism and ethical teachings spread to the world. When nations follow moral principles that originate from the Torah, they receive blessing. The Midrash also says that rain and other blessings come to the world in the merit of the Jewish people studying Torah and doing mitzvot.
Q: Why is Genesis 18:18 important in Judaism?
A: This verse is fundamental because it establishes the eternal covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people. The Talmud (Yevamot 79a) notes that the Jewish people are distinguished by three traits: they are merciful, modest, and perform acts of kindness - qualities inherited from Avraham. This verse shows our special role in the world.
Q: How does the promise to Avraham in Genesis 18:18 apply today?
A: The promise continues through Jewish survival and Torah observance today. Despite our small numbers, the Jewish people have made outsized contributions to morality, justice and monotheism. The Sforno explains that when we live according to Torah values, we fulfill our mission to be 'a light unto nations' (Isaiah 42:6), bringing blessing to the world.
Q: What can we learn from Genesis 18:18 about our personal lives?
A: We learn that every Jew has the potential to bring blessing to others through Torah and mitzvot. Just as Avraham's kindness brought merit to the world (as the verse appears right after he welcomes guests), our actions matter. The Kli Yakar teaches that true greatness comes from spiritual strength, not material power.
Promise to Avraham
The verse (Bereishit 18:18) states that Avraham will become a "great and mighty nation," and that "all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him." Rashi explains that this promise reflects Avraham's unique role as the progenitor of the Jewish people, who would inherit the Torah and serve as a moral and spiritual light to humanity. The term "great" refers to the spiritual greatness of Klal Yisrael, while "mighty" alludes to their enduring strength throughout history.
Blessing for the Nations
The phrase "וְנִבְרְכוּ בוֹ כֹּל גּוֹיֵי הָאָרֶץ" ("all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him") is interpreted in multiple ways by our sages:
Avraham's Role in Divine Providence
The Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 1:3) emphasizes that Avraham's mission was to teach monotheism and ethical living, influencing future generations. The Sforno adds that the blessing for the nations comes through the Jewish people’s adherence to Torah, which brings divine favor upon the world.
Eternal Covenant
The verse underscores the eternal covenant between Hashem and Avraham’s descendants. As the Kli Yakar explains, the phrase "הָיוֹ יִהְיֶה" ("shall surely become") implies a certainty—Avraham’s legacy is unshakable, ensuring the Jewish people’s survival and spiritual impact throughout history.