In this week’s reading, we learn about two wealthy individuals. Avram, as he was then called, gave up his local work and reputation to move to the land of Cana’an, where, he was told, he would receive much greater blessings. And, as promised, he prospered.
The Torah tells us that his nephew Lot journeyed with him, and prospered as well. Rashi tells us that the Torah isn’t simply reminding you that Lot was Avram’s traveling partner when it says [Gen. 13:5] “And Lot, also, who escorted Avram, had flocks, cattle and tents.” Why repeat the fact that Lot was going
with Avram? Because, says Rashi, that’s why he became wealthy — this is cause and effect. By being in the presence of such a holy person as Avram, Lot prospered.
Lot, however, didn’t understand the source of his blessings. The shepherds who worked for him would let his cattle graze on other people’s property, which Avram did not permit his own shepherds to do. The conflict between the shepherds is, as Rashi tells us, what led Avram to suggest that they split up, in order that there not be an argument between them and between their shepherds. Lot, of course, agreed.
And where did he go? To Sodom! At the time, as the Torah describes it, the territory around Sodom was extraordinarily fertile and vibrant — yet the people were evil. Lot chose the fertile land, despite the evil neighbors, over remaining with Avram. From a business perspective, it had all the makings of a good decision: his flocks would have more room to graze, on the best land available.
And what happened? He lost everything.
When Lot lost himself in material pursuits, he was willing to leave his holy uncle to go live among evil people rather than get his shepherds to behave correctly. And that, in the end, is what led to the loss of his fortune (and his wife). Following the more honest, more spiritual, more positive path will always pay off in the end — in more ways than one!
Dear Rabbi Yaakov Menken,
On four occasions during my career, I lost my job because I chose integrity and ethics over what I considered unethical behaviour on the part of my managers. On one occasion I was bribed with a percentage cut to turn a blind eye to employee fraud; on another I refused to lie to customers; on another I pursued what I considered the correct professional path despite the adverse political consequences; and on one I chose to fix problems at the first instance rather than create an ongoing income stream by only solving part of the problem. On each occasion after losing my job, a better opportunity came along, and now in my 70th year, I can look back with a clear conscience in that regard and thank God that I was properly guided in my thinking. Curiously, it was not until long after retirement that the connection with Abraham was made, for in truth during those many years, I did not read the Bible and nor was God foremost in my thoughts. It is only now that I appreciate the faithfulness of God even when we ourselves are unfaithful. Someone had been looking after me all those years even though at the time I was unaware.
As an afterthought, I find Jewish commentaries on the Hebrew Bible to be much more insightful than Christian commentaries on the Old Testament. I do wonder whether Christianity pays far too little attention to their Hebrew roots
Nothing was factored in – how Lot – may have perceived- being saved – by Avraham – and returned to his place of residence – near Sodom.
At the time of G-D’s destruction of Sodom/Gemorrah – yes – he did lose all that he had then.
However – when our avotainu – were wandering in BaMidar. G-D – specifically forbade causing any trespassing against – the land G-D – gave to Lot and his descendants.
So – in essence – Lot – didn’t really lose. He gained a large section of land.
Ever inspiring and oh so true.