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ב"ה

Article Summaries of Editors' Picks

Listening From/To the Tent
The Zohar
Sarah heard the announcement of the Shechinah that she would have a son. This was a lower level of the revelation of the Shechinah, whereas Abraham was privy to a higher level.
In the Heat of the Day
The Holy Ari
The Ari explains that Abraham brought merit to his father Terah, originally an idol worshipper, due to his extraordinary holiness. G-d promised Abraham: "You will come to your fathers in peace.", meaning that Terah would repent and his soul would rest in paradise.
At the Entrance of the Tent
Mystical Classics
Abraham consulted with Mamre on how to perform the commandment of circumcision. We learn from this that when one is instructed to fulfill a certain mitzvah, one should consult with a qualified person how best to fulfill it.
Empty Vessels
Chasidic Illumination
Before Abraham was visited by G-d, he was on the level of the 49th gate of understanding, the upmost level at which a human being can interact with the Infinite through his own efforts. When G-d visited Abraham, He granted him the fiftieth gate.
Ultimate Desire
Contemporary Kabbalists
The main accomplishment and benefit gained in the performance of a mitzvah is the actual effort itself. Even after Abraham prepared the feast for his guests, they did not eat because they were angels. Similarly, in the test of the binding of Isaac, he ultimately did not slaughter his son. Rather, the many arrangements and traveling and personal preparations [mentally, emotionally and spiritually] are considered as if the mitzvah had actually come to fruition.
Quietly Carrying On
Ascent Lights
By receiving from G-d an additional hei to their name, Abraham and Sarah each became more effective vessels for G-d's blessings and merited a miracle. Abraham merited that G-d revealed Himself to him and Sarah well past childbearing age, was blessed with news of a son.
Only Mine
Beginner
Only Mine
Mystical Story
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