PARSHAT VAYEIRA – DOING CHARITY AND JUSTICE

בס”ד

In Parshat Vayera, Abraham is sitting at the entryway of his tent when he spots three dusty travelers who turn out to be angels. He invites them inside and takes care of them generously. It is written regarding Abraham — “For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, that they keep the way of the L-rd, to do righteousness and justice” (Genesis 18:19). From this verse, the Sages teach (Ran Sanhedrin 56b) that the Children of Noah are obligated to practice goodness and kindness, including charity.

This establishes Charity and Justice as the way of G-d that is shared by all Humanity. This verse teaches that G-d’s selection and love for Abraham arose not only because of his good deeds, but also because he cared to instill G-d’s universal values into future generations. These principles form the moral and practical core required of all Humanity.

The entire portion of Vayera is filled with acts of kindness (visiting the sick, hospitality). Therefore, Abraham was chosen because he led his household in the way of G-d, which includes both charity and justice. Despite Tzedakah not being one of the Seven Noahide Commandments, still, Noahides should walk in the ways of G-d and observe moral obligations like visiting the sick, comforting mourners, providing food and shelter to the needy among other non-monetary acts such as offering greetings, providing words of encouragement and comfort for those who need it, and active listening

Anyone who judges with the truth is considered a partner with G-d in the act of creation. Why? Because G-d created the world to be sustained and perfected. The righteous judge sustains and maintains the world from destruction. He fulfills G-d’s will to create a just world. The final judgment of the generation of the Flood was based on theft and violence. From this, we understand that a lack of justice causes destruction, and that justice is fundamental for existence.

“‘To do charity and justice” encompasses both the Noahide obligation to establish a system of justice (Dinim) and the importance of giving charity. When the world faces instability, it is crucial to embrace the special virtue of charity and righteous judgment. Both can provide protection from future harm and keep all of us spiritually safe.

Sources: Sanhedrin 57b; Tur Choshen Mishpat 1:2; Genesis 18 1-8. Ran Sanhedrin 56b. Sheva Mitzvot Hashem by Rabbi Moshe Wiener part 3 chapter 17.

By Rabbi Moshe Bernstein

If you want more questions for contemplation, SEE THE OTHER BLOGS FROM RABBI MOSHE BERNSTEIN