There’s a rabbinic idea that the righteous say little and do a lot, whereas the wicked say a lot and do nothing at all. How do we know this is true? We could certainly conjure up any number of politicians and celebrities and business leaders who might give us a tangible example in our time…but these comparisons are often subjective and frequently divide us. Rather, to prove the principle, we can follow the example of the Avot De Rabbi Natan, an expanded commentary on our Pirkei Avot. According to this text, the perfect example of this idea is found in Abraham, and in this Parsha, no less!
This week’s parsha is Vayeira, which is typically most famous for God’s promise that Sarah will bear child and for the story of Sodom and Gemorra. Also known is the beginning of the Parsha, where Abraham welcomes and feeds three strangers. Despite the straightforward appearance of this part, it contains great wisdom that applies directly to the lesson of saying little and doing much.
When he offers food to the strangers, Abraham says “Let me get you a small bit of bread…” But a small piece of bread is not what he provides. Abraham, with the help of wife Sarah and a servant, gave them a great deal of bread and meat! He mentions only a little, but he provided so much! In our current moment we have the opportunity to emulate our forefather and practice his righteousness. We may not need to say anything at all, but we must make sure to feed the strangers among us, even more than they would expect! Let us say little, and let us do a lot!