Parashat Vayera

The miracle of the ram caught in the bushes was that, in the final moment, Abraham was able to perceive it as an alternative to sacrificing his son.

The Torah chronicles the pain of infertility — and the ongoing hope for a child.

Parashat Vayera offers many instances of abuse towards female biblical characters.

Why did Abraham beg for mercy for the city of Sodom but not for his son Isaac?

Joy and laughter, often embodied in children, can help us begin to live again after extreme disappointment and tragedy.

We can attain godliness by acting with kindness towards others.

Hagar and Ishmael are cast away at Sarah's behest.

Abraham attempts to save the people of Sodom and Gomorrah.

If people don't feel comfortable in the community, they won't stay long enough to enjoy its richness.

Humanity's dominion over the earth must be for the sake of the Divine.

We no longer need there to be unchosen children.

Abraham's responses to the destruction of Sodom and Gemorrah and to the command to sacrifice Isaac provide two conflicting models.

In his covenant with Avimelech, Abraham provides us with an example of how to build peace, justice, and kindness where they seem to be absent.

Honesty is a value only insofar as it leads to growth, compassion and peace.

The fates of Abraham and Sarah as compared to Sodom teach us that ethics, not power, determines the future.

To continue to live after loss, we must gently push ourselves to do what might seem impossible.

How often do we speak carelessly and hurt those we love?

Ethically, are there ever times to lie?

Vayera: A resource for families.

Lot's wife--before and after.

The prophet Elisha performs two miracles.

Isaac's birth, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the exile of Hagar and the ultimate sacrifice.