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Why does the Gemara (גמרא) say women begrudge guests, seemingly criticizing Sarah Imeinu? The distinction between giving TO someone versus giving UP space reveals hachnasas orchim as the ultimate chesed (חסד). When we surrender our personal space for others, we emulate Hashem (ה׳)'s act of creation itself.
This shiur addresses a challenging Gemara (גמרא) in Bava Metzia 86b that derives from Sarah and Avrohom's interaction regarding flour that "a woman begrudges guests." Rabbi Zweig confronts what appears to be an unfair characterization of Jewish women, particularly Sarah Imeinu, and questions how Chazal could make such a universal statement based on this incident. The shiur begins by examining another principle from Parshas Vayeira: "gedolah hachnasas orchim yoser mikabbalas pnei Shechinah" - hospitality is greater than receiving the Divine Presence. This is derived from Avrohom interrupting his communion with Hashem (ה׳) to serve the three visitors. Rabbi Zweig explains that the highest form of closeness to Hashem is not speaking with Him, but emulating Him (imitatio dei). Being godlike through acts of chesed (חסד) surpasses even direct communion with the Divine.
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Parshas Vayeira 18:1-8
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