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“And Hashem tested Avraham.” (22:1)

Chazal state that this was the tenth time that Hashem tested Avraham Avinu’s devotion. The first nine tests were only preparations for the Akeidah, the ultimate test of faith. Horav Nissan Alpert, z.l., offers two insights regarding the Akeidah which shed light on this incident and its ramifications for the future of our People. Throughout Avraham’s previous tests, he clearly displayed his tenacious devotion and utter loyalty to Hashem’s imperative. Indeed, in Uhr Kasdim he was prepared to die for his belief. At the Akeidah, however, he indicated his willingness to give up all that he possessed for Hashem. All…

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“Do not attack Moab and do not provoke them to war.” (2:9)

The Talmud in Bava Kama (38a) states that Hashem spared the nations of Amon and Moav from certain destruction because of the two very special righteous women, Rus the Moabitea and Naama the Amonite who would descend from them. The Michtav M’eliyahu illustrates the concept of zechus avos (merits of ancestry) with the analogy of one who has a gold watch attached to a chain which is in turn attached to his garment. The chain, because it maintains the watch in its proper place, benefits its owner greatly. However, in its own right, it really has very little significance. Despite…

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