EXAMPLES FROM CHAPTER 18 OF BERESHIS
Visiting the Sick – (Bereshis 18,1) HaShem visits Avrohom, who is recovering from his circumcision at the age of 99.
HaKaros HaTov (Gratitude) – (Bereshis 18,1) HaShem visited Avrohom in Mamre’s territory as a reward for Mamre’s assistance in Avrohom’s circumcision.
Honor Elders – (Bereshis 18,3) Avrohom addressed the three guests in the singular indicating that he honored the oldest of the guests.
Welcoming Guests – (Bereshis 18,3) In the middle of talking with HaShem, Avrohom left Him to welcome the guests. Thus, HaChnosas Orchim is greater than involvement with the Divine Presence.
Speak Little, But Do Much – (Bereshis 18,4) Avrohom offers the guests only some water to drink and some bread to eat, but then preceded to serve them a feast.
Proper Etiquette at a Meal – (Bereshis 18,5) Proper for the host to “break bread” for one’s guests, as Avrohom said “I will take the bread” and then, “and you shall partake of the food.”
Be Quick to Serve Guests – (Bereshis 18,6) Avrohom immediately hurried to provide the food.
Avoid Possible Offense or Injured Pride – (Bereshis 18,7) Avrohom slaughtered three calves to provide an equal delicacy of tongue to each guest. If Avrohom had only prepared one tongue then each guest would have to decide how much to take and how much to leave for the others.
Adhere to Local Customs – (Bereshis 18,8) Although the angels do not require physical food, they pretended to eat to adhere to the local customs of people.
Endear One to Their Spouse – (Bereshis 18,9) Rashi explains the unusual dots on top of the word אליו to teach that the angels inquired of Avrohom about the welfare of his wife, Sarah. This inquiry intended to remind Avrohom of Sarah’s exemplary trait of modesty, further endearing her to him.
Escorting Guests Out - (Bereshis 18,16) When it came time for the angels/guests to leave, Avrohom escorted them on their way. (Rashi)
ושמרו דרך ה' לעשות צדקה ומשפט (יח, יט)
(Yevamos 79a) There are three Simanim (signs) of the nation of Yisrael – (they are merciful, they have a sense of shame,) and they bestow Chesed as it says, "That they observe the way of HaShem to do Tzedakah and Justice."
