Avraham Avinu was the archetypical “gomel chessed” [benefactor of kindness]. A Medrash in Parshas Noach comments on the pasuk (Mishlei 21:21) “One who pursues righteousness and kindness (Tzedokah v’Chessed) will find life, righteousness, and honor (Chaim, Tzedokah, v’Kavod).” The Medrash interprets: The one who pursues tzedokah refers to Avraham, as it is written, “...He observes the way of Hashem to do tzedokah ...” (Bereishis 18:19). And who is considered the ba’al chessed? Again, it is Avraham who did chessed to Sorah (by burying her).
The conclusion of the pasuk in Mishlei thus also refers to Avraham: He is going to live a long life (he lived for 175 years); and he found tzedokah and kavod. The Medrash comments that Hashem said, “I am one who bestows kindness. You, Avraham, have taken over my profession. Therefore, come and wear my uniform – as it is written, “And Avraham was old, coming in days, and Hashem blessed Avraham with all.” (Bereishis 24:1) Apparently, the Medrash is saying that the uniform of the Ribbono Shel Olam is ziknah [aged appearance].
And where, according to the Medrash, did Avraham demonstrate his great chessed? It was through the burial of Sorah. This Medrash is unfathomable! This is the example of the great attribute of kindness of Avraham Avinu?
