Sophisticated Religion

Parashat Vayera

Last week, Abraham believed and trusted in God’s promise to give him and Sarah a son together, yet this didn’t prevent him from questioning if God would really do so given his advanced age. Questioning and cautiously doubting were not considered blasphemy, but rather an important part of having a sophisticated relationship with God.

We see this sophistication yet again in this week’s Parashah. In recognition of their special relationship, God warns Abraham of the impending destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. God knows it is inevitable, yet gives Abraham the opportunity to argue, to attempt to dissuade God.

We all need to work on developing this type of sophisticated relationship with God and Judaism. Questions do not diminish our spirituality but rather enhance it. Allegiance to our traditions should not preclude our willingness to think critically about them.

Shabbat Shalom.