Shabbat Table Topics – Parashat Vayera/0/en

Shabbat Table Topics – Parashat Vayera

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Did the Avot Keep the Mitzvot?

This issue had been debated throughout the ages. On one hand, the Avot and Imahot lived centuries before the Torah was given and many of its laws would be meaningless to them.  On the other hand, it seems paradoxical to conceive of the founders of a religion not observing even its most basic commandments. 

• What other factors might lead one to suggest that the Avot did in fact observe at least some of the commandments?
• What evidence might you bring from Torah to support each position?
• With which side of the debate do you agree; why?  See Avot and Mitzvot – Was Avraham the First Jew?

Criticizing our Avot

To what extent should we view our ancestors as perfect role models worthy of emulation, reinterpreting any stories that cast shadows on their reputations, and when is it ok to criticize their actions and recognize that they, too, had human flaws?  Use the story of Avraham Endangering Sarai in Egypt as a test case to explore the question.

• Do you think Avraham displayed a lack of belief in leaving the land so recently promised to him by Hashem, or was that the logical decision in face of famine? Compare RambanBereshit 12:10-13About R. Moshe b. Nachman and Ralbag.
• How could Avraham try to save his life at the expense of Sarah's honor?  

Like Father, Like Son?

Often readers picture Avraham as an active trailblazer, and Yitzchak as but a passive shadow, whose main contribution is being a link in the chain. Is this an accurate depiction?

• What do you think are the strengths and weaknesses of each character?
• What are the main points of similarity and difference between the two?
• Perhaps surprisingly, the stories of father and son are actually quite similar, and exploring the parallels helps a reader appreciate both the overlap between and the uniqueness of each leader.  See Avraham and Yitzchak for more.