Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'blessed be the most high God' mean in Genesis 14:20?
A: In Genesis 14:20, when Avram (later called Avraham) says 'blessed be the most high God,' he is acknowledging and praising Hashem as the supreme ruler of the universe who helped him defeat his enemies. Rashi explains that Avram recognized that his victory came only through divine assistance, not his own strength.
Q: Why did Avram give a tithe (ma'aser) in Genesis 14:20?
A: Avram gave a tenth (ma'aser) of the spoils to Malki-Tzedek (identified by our sages as Shem, son of Noach) as an expression of gratitude to Hashem. The Rambam teaches that this act established an important principle - that we should dedicate a portion of our gains to holy purposes, which later became the mitzvah of tithing.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Genesis 14:20 about recognizing Hashem's help?
A: This verse teaches us the importance of recognizing that our successes come from Hashem. Even though Avram had just won a great military victory, he immediately gave credit to Hashem rather than taking pride in his own abilities. The Midrash emphasizes that true righteousness means acknowledging divine assistance in all our accomplishments.
Q: How does the concept of tithing in Genesis 14:20 apply to Jews today?
A: While the specific tithe Avram gave was before the Torah was given, our sages see this as the foundation for later Torah commandments about tithing. Today, the principle reminds us to dedicate portions of our income to tzedakah (charity) and supporting Torah institutions, following Avraham Avinu's example of gratitude to Hashem.
Q: Who is 'the most high God' referred to in Genesis 14:20?
A: The term 'the most high God' (El Elyon in Hebrew) refers to Hashem as the supreme ruler over all creation. Our tradition explains that this name emphasizes Hashem's absolute sovereignty over all nations and powers, as Avram recognized after his victory over the four kings. The Talmud notes that this name appears when emphasizing Hashem's mastery over heaven and earth.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bereshit 14:20) appears in the narrative of Avraham Avinu's victory over the four kings who had captured his nephew Lot. After his military success, Avraham encounters Malki-Tzedek, king of Shalem (identified by Chazal as Shem, son of Noach), who blesses Avraham and acknowledges Hashem's role in his triumph.
Grammatical and Textual Analysis
Theological Significance
The Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 9:1) derives from this verse that recognizing Hashem's hand in military victories is fundamental. Avraham's attribution of success to Hashem, rather than his own strength, models proper acknowledgment of divine providence.
The Tithe (מַעֲשֵׂר)
Halachic Implications
The Gemara (Nedarim 32b) discusses whether Avraham's tithe was voluntary or if he acted based on prophetic insight into future Torah laws. This becomes a source for understanding the relationship between the Avot's actions and later halacha.