Go for it

This week’s portion ( Chayei Sarah) begins with the passing of Sarah in 1677 BCE. Abraham looks for a suitable burial place, and chooses the Machpelah cave. But since the land belongs to Efron, Abraham must first purchase it, and so begin some remarkable negotiations.

Was Abraham inept?

When Abraham offers to purchase the cave, Efron, seemingly considering Abraham’s status, generously “offers” to give it as a gift. But Abraham refuses, and demands to purchase it for the full price. Efron replies (paraphrased in today’s language), “Oh come on now, it’s worth only 400 shekels. What’s 400 shekels between friends like you and me? Forget about it. Just take the field and the cave”.

Abraham immediately hands over 400 shekels (an astronomical figure in those days) and the deal is finalized.

Missing a bargain

This story, like all others in the Bible, teaches us a lesson.

What lay behind Abraham’s rejection of such a bargain? Because he knew that when it comes to establishing and maintaining the Jewish nation, there are no bargains. No shortcuts and no compromises. Our responsibilities as part of that nation are not a gift, they are an obligation (albeit one we are happy to carry out).

The same standards of kindness and generosity embodied in Sarah and Abraham stretch in a continuous thread to our very day. And because that thread is sacred, it stretches back to only Abraham; Efron is not (and cannot be) part of it.

Stretches until today

In light of the above, it is indeed fitting that the annual “kinus” (convention) of Chabad emissaries takes place this Shabbat (in actuality it already began). Every year at this time, thousands of emissaries and guests come together at the Chabad “headquarters” in Crown Heights, New York, in which they meet and strengthen each other, participate in seminars, and enjoy the rare opportunity for networking.

But more than anything, it signifies an all-encompassing commitment to fulfilling the Rebbe’s mission of continuing the sacred thread mentioned above, that of maintaining the Jewish nation. No shortcuts and no compromises. Only continuing the highest moral and social standards we inherited directly from Abraham and Sarah, the ultimate of G-dliness and goodness.

The highlight – don’t miss it!

The highlight of the conference is the extraordinary banquet to be held this Sunday, Nov. 20. With over 6,500 participants, this is no ordinary event. In fact, it is so unique that it will be streamed live starting at 4:30pm ( click here to view). We invite (and urge) you to participate.

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About the Machpelah cave

Also known as the Tomb of the Patriarchs, it is located in what is today the old city of Hebron, and is Judaism’s second most holy site. The massive structure situated directly above the cave itself (see the accompanying picture) was built by Herod in the first century BCE, and still stands intact.

For an interesting overview, click here.

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Shabbat shalom,