Lech Lecha
The Sedra open with Abraham's first test. " Go from your Land, the
place of you birth and your fathers house to a place which I will show
you."
The order of Abraham's instructions is wrong. In Julius Caesar act 3
scene two Anthony says " Friends, Romans, Countrymen" that is the
correct order. In Abraham's case it should say, leave your father's
house then the place of your birth and then your land. The Aznaim
L'Torah points out that a test has to be progressively more
difficult. GCSE then A-Level then University. The words " Land and place
of birth" occur together when Jethro explains to Moses why he will not
accompany the Jews into the land of Israel. There Rashi says
Land means real estate, possesions, place of birth means family. G-d
was therfore testing Abraham with progressive difficulties. Firstly
leave behind all your possessions. Having passed that then leave your
family. Abraham passed that now leave your father behind.
Abraham's entire existence is bringing people close to G-d. Where
could he be most successful but in his own country with those who
understand him and whom he understands. G-d tells him to ignore his
perceptions and concentrate on G-d instead.
There is an even greater question surrounding Abraham's first test;
why was it a test at all? G-d promises Abraham that by obeying he will
have a child which till now he could not have ( both he and his wife
were unable to have children Sarah had no womb ) He is promised great
wealth and fame. Who wouldn't do what G-d asks when promises such as
these are on offer?
The real greatness of Abraham is revealed in this question's answer. In
verse 4 it says, " And Abraham went as G-d had told him to go" Even
though the greatest rewards were promised if he went he only went because
G-d told him to go not for any other reason.