Hungry and Thirsty

Parshas Vayeira begins by telling us that G‑d appeared to Avraham while “sitting at the entrance of his tent, in the heat of the day.”

Why was he sitting there? To look for guests. Avraham dedicated himself to deeds of kindness, feeding hungry wayfarers in an effort to heighten their awareness of G‑d.

“Days are coming, when people will be hungry - but not for bread, thirsty - but not for water, but to hear the word of G‑d.” And there must be Abrahams ready to provide for them.

At times, this thirst may be consciously felt, and in other instances, a person may be unaware of his own thirst. But this lack of awareness does not change the reality. At the core of every man lies a soul that was created in the image of G‑d. And every being seeks to express its fundamental identity. Therefore, when we emulate Abraham’s example and extend ourselves to these individuals, we will discover a readiness to respond that reflects their inner G‑dly nature.

Shabbat Shalom!

Shabbat candle lighting time in NYC: Friday, 5:36 PM