ABRAHAM AND THE CHALLENGE OF FAITH ACCORDING TO THE MIDRASH RABBAH

The biblical narrative of the life of Abraham is explored through the interpretations of the sages of the Midrash Rabbah. Evoking the commentary are two scriptural portions in the Book of Genesis. The first is Lekh Lekha, which means 'to leave,' and it tells the story in which God commands Abraham to leave his father's house and to enter the land which God will choose. The second scriptural portion discussed is Vayeira, which refers to God revealing Himself to Abraham. This portion tells of Abraham's life with Sara, the fulfillment of of the Divine promise with the birth of their son Isaac, and includes the famous narrative of the Binding of Issac. The Midrash comes to discuss Abraham's social and spiritual endeavors, as well as the selfless character and absolute belief in God that became the symbol for which Abraham is known in Judaic literature. The Midrash was not only perceived as holding solutions to problems, but also as a work of literature that raises questions and offers criticism and insights. 

Wilfred Shuchat has been an active rabbi for more than 50 years and has studied and taught the Midrash Rabbah during his tenure as rabbi of Shaar HaShomayim Synagogue in Montreal. He lives in Montreal.