Parshat Vayera is the fourth Parsha in Sefer Bereshit. In this Parsha, Hashem visits Avraham, who is recuperating from his brit milah in Alonei Mamre (Oaks of Mamre). Rashi notes that Mamre was fortunate to host Hashem because he encouraged Avraham to proceed with the brit milah. This situation prompts an important question: If Hashem commanded Avraham to perform this mitzvah, why did he consult with Mamre?

Rav Moshe Feinstein, ZT”L, in his commentary Drash Moshe, clarifies that Avraham was not reluctant to perform the brit milah; rather, he was uncertain about whether it should be done in public or private. Avraham had already drawn many individuals to Hashem by showcasing the beauty of Judaism and the compassion of Hashem as the King of Kindness. He was concerned that a public display of the brit milah could lead onlookers to misunderstand, perceiving Hashem and Judaism as barbaric due to the nature of the act.

Given these concerns, Avraham considered it might be better to keep the mitzvah private. However, Mamre contended that since Hashem commanded this mitzvah, it should be an essential aspect of the faith Avraham was imparting. Keeping it private could suggest that Avraham was ashamed or disregarding Hashem’s directives. It is not our prerogative to determine which mitzvot should be publicized; rather, our responsibility as devoted servants of Hashem is to adhere to all His commandments faithfully. The significance of embracing all mitzvot far outweighs the implications of selectively choosing based on public perception.

The phrase b’etzem hayom hazeh, meaning “on that very day,” highlights the timing of Hashem’s visit to Avraham, which coincided with Avraham’s public observance of the brit milah. By encouraging Avraham to openly fulfill Hashem’s commandment, Mamre was blessed with the opportunity to welcome Hashem into his land.

Wishing everyone a meaningful Shabbos!

Rabbi Yoni Schwartz