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Genesis 18:23 - Avraham defends Sodom's righteous?

Genesis 18:23 - בראשית 18:23

Hebrew Text

וַיִּגַּשׁ אַבְרָהָם וַיֹּאמַר הַאַף תִּסְפֶּה צַדִּיק עִם־רָשָׁע׃

English Translation

And Avraham drew near, and said, Wilt Thou also destroy the righteous with the wicked?

Transliteration

Va'yigash Avraham va'yomar ha'af tispeh tzadik im-rasha.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיִּגַּ֥שׁ אַבְרָהָ֖ם וַיֹּאמַ֑ר הַאַ֣ף תִּסְפֶּ֔ה צַדִּ֖יק עִם־רָשָֽׁע׃
וַיִּגַּ֥שׁ אַבְרָהָ֖ם וַיֹּאמַ֑ר הַאַ֣ף תִּסְפֶּ֔ה צַדִּ֖יק עִם־רָשָֽׁע׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

The verse (Bereishit 18:23) occurs during Avraham Avinu's dialogue with Hashem regarding the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah. Avraham, upon hearing of the impending destruction, approaches Hashem with a plea to spare the cities if righteous individuals can be found within them.

Avraham's Approach ("וַיִּגַּשׁ")

Rashi explains that the term "וַיִּגַּשׁ" ("drew near") signifies Avraham's readiness to engage in prayer and advocacy. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 49:8) elaborates that Avraham approached with three intentions:

  • To pray – Demonstrating his role as an intercessor for mercy.
  • To argue – Presenting a logical case for justice.
  • To confront – Showing boldness in standing up for righteousness.

The Question of Justice ("הַאַף תִּסְפֶּה צַדִּיק עִם־רָשָׁע")

Avraham's question challenges the idea of collective punishment, emphasizing the principle of individual accountability. The Rambam (Hilchot Teshuvah 3:1) derives from this verse that Hashem judges each person based on their own merits, not collectively. Avraham’s phrasing reflects his deep understanding of Divine justice, as he seeks to reconcile the attribute of strict judgment (מִדַּת הַדִּין) with compassion.

Theological Implications

The Sforno notes that Avraham’s plea was not merely for the righteous but also to highlight the injustice of destroying a city that might contain even a minority of righteous individuals. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 104a) further connects this to the concept of זְכוּת אָבוֹת (merit of the forefathers), where the presence of righteous individuals can protect others.

Avraham as Advocate

This episode establishes Avraham as the first biblical figure to negotiate with Hashem on behalf of others, setting a precedent for prophetic intercession. The Midrash Tanchuma (Vayera 8) praises Avraham’s boldness, teaching that true righteousness involves advocating for justice even when confronting the Divine.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Sanhedrin 99b
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the merit of the righteous and divine justice.
📖 Berakhot 7a
The verse is cited in a discussion about prayer and intercession, highlighting Abraham's approach to God.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Genesis 18:23 mean when it says 'Avraham drew near'?
A: Rashi explains that 'Avraham drew near' means he approached Hashem with humility and reverence to plead for the people of Sodom. The Midrash adds that this teaches us the importance of prayer and standing up for justice, even when interceding on behalf of others.
Q: Why did Avraham ask if Hashem would destroy the righteous with the wicked?
A: Avraham was questioning the justice of destroying Sodom if there were righteous people living there. The Rambam teaches that this shows Avraham's deep understanding of divine justice and his concern for fairness. He was setting a precedent for advocating mercy and justice in the world.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Avraham's plea in Genesis 18:23?
A: The Talmud (Berachot 10a) derives from this verse that we should always seek to defend others and pray for their welfare, even if they are wicked. Avraham teaches us the importance of compassion and standing up for what is right, traits we should emulate in our own lives.
Q: How does Avraham's question apply to us today?
A: Just as Avraham advocated for justice, we too must speak up against wrongdoing and pray for the welfare of others. The Midrash Tanchuma teaches that this verse reminds us of our responsibility to be 'a light unto the nations' by promoting righteousness in our communities.
Q: Was Avraham challenging Hashem by asking this question?
A: No, our sages explain that Avraham was not challenging Hashem, but rather seeking to understand divine justice. As Rashi notes, Avraham spoke with utmost respect (beginning with 'please') while humbly asking for clarification. This shows the proper way to seek understanding of Hashem's ways.