Matityahu David

In parashat Lech Lecha (B’reisheet / Genesis 15:1), we read: After these events, the word of HaShem came to Abram (Abraham) in a vision, saying, “Fear not, Abram, I am a shield for you; your reward is very great.” This declaration is the first blessing of the Amidah (a daily prayer) and it says, “Blessed are you, Lord, shield of Abraham”, but why would Abraham need a shield?

Abraham had recently rescued some relatives and refused to take for himself some of the spoils of the battle. Instead, he declares that HaShem will receive glory by blessing Abraham with offspring and wealth. But what about retaliation from neighboring successors? What about the fact that Abraham still had no offspring? HaShem reassures Abraham that He is the shield, the very protection from any reprisals and the defender against obstacles – like barrenness.

In parashat Lech Lecha (B’reisheet / Genesis 12:1-17:27), we read of Abraham (called Abram) is called leave his homeland, his family and relatives to a place that HaShem will show him. This test is but one of 10 that Abraham will endure in his life and will require him to chose between his nature and HaShems will. In the end, Abraham did subordinate his wishes and wisdom to HaShem. By doing so, he reveals what we should all do – accept that His ways are far superior to ours.

Since HaShem knows all, including the future and how we will respond, why was it necessary to test Abraham? I should point out that not every difficulty is a test. Sometimes, we experience hard times as a result of sin, whether it’s ours or someone else’s. But for those times in our lives, when we are experiencing a trial – its to our own benefit. HaShem does not test beyond our capacity to handle. We have free choice and we must find the strength and wisdom to choose correctly. If we do, our action then translates into our betterment. In the end, we will be rewarded for what we do rather that for what we were merely capable of doing.

Today, we have the 13th attribute of the 13 Attributes of Mercy. It’s also the last day of the Days of Awe. The 13th, “nakkeh” (who cleanses), but the Hebrew text speaks of punishing the guilty. The difference comes from reconciling the apparent contradiction by modifying how the prayer is read. This liturgical treatment facilitates the message of HaShems mercy; however, this contradiction creates the demand for the work of Messiah.

Today, we have the 12th attribute of the 13 Attributes of Mercy. The 12th, “nosei chatta’ah” (forgives sin), we have another category of sin being forgiven: unintentional sin; which is breaking commandments due to apathy or neglect or ignorance. Should these even be counted? Well, they are as no sin is inconsequential; yet, HaShem still forgives.