Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the meaning of Genesis 18:3?
A: In Genesis 18:3, Avraham (Abraham) humbly addresses the divine visitors (who were angels in human form) with great respect, saying, 'My Lord, if I have found favor in Your eyes, please do not pass by Your servant.' According to Rashi, Avraham was asking them to stay so he could fulfill the mitzvah of hospitality (hachnasat orchim). This teaches the importance of welcoming guests and showing kindness.
Q: Why did Avraham say 'please do not pass by' in Genesis 18:3?
A: Avraham, known for his exceptional hospitality, did not want to miss the opportunity to perform the mitzvah of hosting guests. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah) explains that Avraham was eager to serve these visitors, whom he initially thought were travelers. His words reflect his deep commitment to kindness (chesed) and his humility before others and Hashem.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Avraham's words in Genesis 18:3?
A: Avraham's words teach us the importance of humility, hospitality, and recognizing opportunities to do kindness. The Talmud (Shabbat 127a) states that welcoming guests is even greater than receiving the Divine Presence, as Avraham interrupted his spiritual connection with Hashem to attend to his visitors. This verse reminds us to prioritize acts of chesed (kindness) in our daily lives.
Q: How does Genesis 18:3 apply to us today?
A: Today, we learn from Avraham's example to be attentive to the needs of others and to show hospitality with sincerity. The Rambam (Hilchot Avel 14:1) emphasizes that hachnasat orchim (welcoming guests) is a fundamental Jewish value. Whether inviting guests to our homes or helping those in need, we should emulate Avraham's eagerness to perform acts of kindness.
Q: Who was Avraham speaking to in Genesis 18:3?
A: Avraham was speaking to three visitors who appeared as men but were actually angels (malachim) sent by Hashem. Rashi explains that one angel came to heal Avraham (from his circumcision), one to announce Sarah's future pregnancy, and one to destroy Sodom. Avraham, not yet realizing they were angels, addressed them respectfully as 'My Lord,' demonstrating his humility and devotion to serving others.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bereshit 18:3) appears in the narrative of Avraham Avinu welcoming the three angels who visited him in the plains of Mamre. Avraham, recognizing the divine presence within his guests, addresses one of them with the words: "My Lord, if now I have found favour in thy sight, pass not away, I pray thee, from thy servant." The verse reflects Avraham's humility and his desire to host these visitors properly.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that Avraham was speaking to the chief of the angels (whom he perceived as a manifestation of the Divine Presence). The phrase "pass not away, I pray thee, from thy servant" is understood as a plea for the angel to wait while Avraham prepares hospitality. Rashi emphasizes that Avraham, despite his greatness, referred to himself as "thy servant", demonstrating his humility before Hashem.
Rambam's Perspective
In Moreh Nevuchim (1:27), Rambam discusses how the angels appeared in human form to Avraham. The term "Adonai" in this verse is interpreted as addressing the leader of the angels, not Hashem directly, as Avraham recognized their elevated status. Rambam highlights that Avraham's request reflects his understanding of the importance of honoring guests, a principle deeply rooted in Jewish tradition.
Midrashic Insights
Linguistic Nuances
The term "אַל־נָא" ("I pray thee") conveys urgency and respect. The Malbim notes that Avraham's language reflects both reverence and a heartfelt request, showing his deep commitment to fulfilling the mitzvah of hospitality despite physical discomfort.
Ethical Lessons
This verse serves as a model for chessed (kindness) and humility. Avraham's actions teach: