Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean that Avraham stood before Hashem in Genesis 18:22?
A: Rashi explains that Avraham remained standing in prayer before Hashem to plead for the people of Sedom. This shows his deep compassion and willingness to advocate for others, even those who were wicked. The verse highlights Avraham's role as an intercessor and his close relationship with Hashem.
Q: Why did the men (angels) go to Sedom while Avraham stayed behind?
A: According to the Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah), the 'men' were actually angels with different missions—some to destroy Sedom and others to save Lot. Avraham stayed behind to pray for Sedom's salvation, demonstrating his trait of kindness (chesed) and his hope that even a wicked city might be spared for the sake of a few righteous people.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Avraham standing before Hashem in this verse?
A: The Talmud (Berachot 26b) teaches that Avraham established the concept of praying to Hashem with sincerity and persistence. From this verse, we learn the importance of standing firm in prayer (Amidah) and advocating for others, even when the situation seems hopeless. It also emphasizes the value of not giving up on people, as Avraham did not give up on Sedom.
Q: How does this verse connect to the story of Sedom's destruction?
A: This verse sets the stage for Avraham's negotiation with Hashem to spare Sedom if even ten righteous people could be found (Genesis 18:23-32). The fact that Avraham 'stood before Hashem' shows his active role in seeking mercy before judgment was carried out. Unfortunately, Sedom lacked even ten righteous individuals, leading to its destruction.
Q: Why is Avraham's standing before Hashem significant in Jewish tradition?
A: Rambam (Hilchot Tefillah 1:4) notes that Avraham's prayer in this verse reflects the foundation of Jewish prayer—approaching Hashem with humility and devotion. Additionally, the Midrash highlights that Avraham's standing symbolizes his spiritual readiness to serve Hashem at all times, a model for how we should cultivate our own relationship with the Divine.
Avraham's Continued Prayer and Advocacy
The verse (Bereishit 18:22) describes how the angels (referred to as "the men") departed for Sedom while Avraham remained standing before Hashem. Rashi explains that Avraham was engaged in prayer and advocacy on behalf of the people of Sedom, demonstrating his characteristic trait of chesed (kindness) even toward the wicked. The Sforno adds that Avraham's standing before Hashem signifies his role as an intercessor, pleading for divine mercy.
The Angels' Departure and Avraham's Persistence
Ramban notes that the angels left because their mission to Avraham (announcing Yitzchak's birth) was complete, while Avraham remained to fulfill his spiritual duty of prayer. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 49:9) highlights that Avraham did not give up even after the angels departed, showing his deep concern for justice and compassion.
The Significance of "Omed Lifnei Hashem"
The phrase "עומד לפני ה'" ("standing before Hashem") carries profound meaning:
Contrast Between Sedom's Judgment and Avraham's Mercy
The Ohr HaChaim points out that the verse juxtaposes the angels heading toward Sedom for judgment with Avraham's steadfast prayer—teaching that true righteousness involves advocating even for those who may not deserve it. This reflects Avraham's legacy as the father of many nations, embodying the ideal of tikkun olam (repairing the world) through prayer and moral responsibility.