YeshivaThe torah world Gateway
Beit Midrash
- Sections
- Chemdat Yamim
- Parashat Hashavua
- Torah Portion and Tanach
- Bereshit
- Vayera
The Torah tells us that Avraham lived in the Land of the Plishtim for many years (Bereishit 21:34). Avimelech and his general Pichol were the ones who initiated the deal, which stemmed in no small part from their recognition of Avraham’s unique spiritual role. Their statement, "Hashem is with you in all that you do" (ibid. 22) is an admission that Hashem oversees and intervenes in the lives of His creations.
Before Avraham agreed to enter in an agreement with Avimelech, he demanded that Avimelech respond to the fact that his servants stole Avraham’s wells (ibid. 25). One cannot enter into an agreement with a government that does not respect the ownership rights of its constituency.
There is much to learn from Avimelech’s answer: "I did not know who did this matter, and you did not tell me, and I did not even hear of it before today." Several commentators struggle with Avimelech’s apparently rambling answer, looking for significance to its various sections. Afterward, the Torah adds an important point. Avraham took various types of animals and gave them to Avimelech as part of their treaty. This needs explanation: if Avimelech initiated the rapprochement and it is a two-way treaty, then why is it specifically Avraham who offered payment to Avimelech? The following explanation teaches a lot about what was going on.
There are several tasks for a governmental body. The government must provide security both from outside powers and from the abuse of some in society by their counterparts. In order to provide law and order, several steps need to be taken, and it is these that Avimelech addressed. There need to be forces that gather information and warn the authorities of dangers and crimes. Regarding this, Avimelech said: "I did not know who did this matter," i.e., my information gatherers did not report any crime, so I could not act. Another service that a government should provide is to be responsive to the complaints of its citizens. To this he claimed: "… and you did not tell me." Another element is that upon becoming aware of a problem quick action should be taken. To this Avimelech replied: "and I did not even hear of it before today."
The above is from the perspective of the government. What must the citizen do to keep his side of the deal? The most basic obligation is to pay taxes. Paying taxes represents recognition of the dominion of the relevant powers (see Rambam, Gezeilot 5) and doing one’s parts in providing the government with the wherewithal to see to its citizens’ welfare. After Avraham confirmed Avimelech’s recognition of Hashem and his willingness to run a just society, Avraham agreed to be a loyal citizen of the kingdom. His presentation of animals was not only a first payment but a ceremonious recognition of his need to pay taxes.
May the State of Israel succeed in ensuring security from enemies from outside and allow its taxpayers to enjoy pleasant lives without being abused or robbed by unlawful types.
P'ninat Mishpat P'ninat Mishpat: Realtor’s Fee on Large Commercial Building – part I
(based on ruling 85031 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
Chemdat Yamim Moreshet Shaul: The Goal of an Agricultural Yeshiva – part I
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the laying of the cornerstone of the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh)
Rabbis in Midrash
Lessons
fast navigation
The Month of Elul TESHUVA IS THE ANSWER
The month of Elul serves as a vital time for self-reflection and personal accountability to prepare for true repentance.
P'ninat Mishpat P'ninat Mishpat: Realtor’s Fee on Large Commercial Building – part I
(based on ruling 85031 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
(based on ruling 85031 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
Chemdat Yamim Moreshet Shaul: The Goal of an Agricultural Yeshiva – part I
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the laying of the cornerstone of the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh)
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the laying of the cornerstone of the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh)
Re'e NEVER EXTREME EXCEPT ISRAEL
Parshat Re'eh
Judaism is against extremism, so how can we understand the seemingly extreme statements found in our sages in favor of living in the Land of Israel and against living in Chutz laAretz? The article deals with the seeming contradiction between the strength of Free-Will and the strength of being influenced by our surroundings.
Ekev DANCE FOR ISRAEL- FOR YOUR BENEFIT
Parshat Eikev
Description: The 7 Haftarot we read after Tisha B'Av ("Shiva D'Nichemta") surely get us excited that they're coming TRUE, and awaken us to yearn, dance & join the return to Zion! The short article also deals with the problems and solutions facing the American Jewish community as discussed at a recent panel, as well as the question why Jews come from America to Israel to help when we face problems, but Israelis don't come to aid Jews in America when they face anti-Semitism.
P'ninat Mishpat P'ninat Mishpat: Complaints about Contractor’s Work – part II
(based on ruling 83037.1 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
(based on ruling 83037.1 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
Chemdat Yamim Moreshet Shaul: Twin Foundations
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 690
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 690
D'varim Judaism’s Social Vision
Re’eh
Giving is more than an act of generosity—it is an essential part of human dignity that belongs to everyone, rich and poor alike. The ultimate goal of help is to empower others to stand on their own.
