Toward the end of this week's parsha, we read of Akeidat Yitzchak. We are introduced to the event with the words "והאלוקים נסה את אברהם." The precise translation of this phrase is a matter of dispute. The Ramban translates it as "G-d tested Avraham." He explains that G-d presented Avraham with a test that would give him an opportunity to exercise his great faith. The Rambam and the Abarbanel, however, understand the term נסה differently. G-d did not "test" Avraham. That was not the purpose of the akeida. The purpose of the akeida was, instead, to show the world what Avraham was capable of. A נס can mean a flag or a banner. The phrase "והאלוקים נסה את אברהם" therefore means that G-d displayed Avraham to the world, that Avraham was held up as a banner for all mankind to learn from.  The Rambam explains that Avraham's behavior throughout Akeidat Yitzchak was the banner for two important principles: total devotion to G-d and the reality of prophecy.

 

An action that one individual experiences can serve as a lesson for so many more people. One of the beautiful things about life in WYHS is that there are so many exciting and uplifting activities taking place every single day. These activities create a culture of Torah and Chesed that is our banner, communicating our values to everyone in our school and in the broader community. Please enjoy this exciting Mitzvah Marathon edition of Highlites which will serve as our banner, allowing everyone to understand what makes life at WYHS so special.

 

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Jonathan Kroll  

Head of School