Rabbi Gordon - Vayeira: 2nd Portion

The Torah portion from Vayera recounts the visit of three angels to Abraham, who delivers the news that he and Sarah will have a child within a year. Sarah laughs in disbelief, prompting a dialogue with God about her reaction. The discussion explores whether Abraham and Sarah recognized the visitors as angels, suggesting they may have initially perceived them as ordinary travelers.

As the narrative progresses, God reveals to Abraham the impending destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, emphasizing Abraham's role as a patriarch and his connection to the nations. The text highlights Abraham's deep concern for the cities, leading him to negotiate with God to spare them if righteous individuals can be found. Abraham's bargaining begins with a request for fifty righteous people and descends to ten, illustrating his commitment to justice and mercy.

Ultimately, the angels proceed to Sodom, while Abraham is left to reflect on the outcome of his negotiations. The passage contrasts Abraham's approach to intercession with that of Moses, who later advocates for the Israelites with a deeper understanding of their inherent goodness. This narrative underscores themes of hospitality, righteousness, and the moral responsibilities of leadership.

These classes teach the day’s section of the weekly Torah portion. The lesson is taught using the original Hebrew text with the indispensable commentary of Rashi—both translated and elucidated so that anyone can follow along.