The scene in which Hashem “introduced” Himself to Avraham is anthologized in the Midrash. It is compared to a man who was traveling from place to place and suddenly came upon an illuminated castle. Upon seeing this sight he asked, “Is it possible that this castle does not have a master?” Suddenly, the master peeked out and said, “I am the master of this castle.” So, too, Avraham was awestruck by the magnificence of this world. This prompted him to ask, “Is it possible that such a grandiose world has no master?” Hashem responded, “I am its Master.”
If we think about it, there really is a distinction between the analogy and the reality of Avraham’s interaction with the Almighty. When the owner of the castle introduced himself ,the person who had made inquires at least now had a clearer perspective of the castle’s owner. In our case, what did Avraham see that heightened his awareness of the Master of the World?
Horav A.L. Steinman, Shlita, offers a profound interpretation of this Midrash. When one passes a castle that is ablaze with light, although he understands that there is an owner to this castle, he does not yet know who is this owner until the owner comes forth to reveal himself. Likewise, unless Hashem reveals Himself to a person, that individual will not, regardless of his acumen, understand who Hashem is. Furthermore, commensurate with one’s propensity to seek out the truth, one’s searching for Hashem will be on the level of his personal revelation. Hashem reveals Himself to those who seek this relationship. Avraham Avinu’s every moment was spent in developing a more profound understanding of Hashem. He thirsted for the truth as he strove for perfection. Indeed, he achieved the level of prophesy when Hashem came forward and said, “I am Hashem.”
The lesson to be derived from Chazal is compelling. The man could have stood in front of the castle for days and weeks — even years — without finding out who the owner was. No amount of logic would have helped. It was necessary for the owner to come forth and make his presence known. Likewise, man alone cannot fathom the complexities involved in understanding who Hashem is and how He directs the world, without reinforcement from Above. This Divine assistance is granted only to those who seek and yearn for it.
