Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Lot had flocks, herds, and tents?
A: Rashi explains that the Torah mentions Lot's possessions to show that he became wealthy because of his association with Avram (Abraham). This teaches that blessings come to those who accompany righteous people, as Lot benefited from being with Avram.
Q: What is the significance of Lot traveling with Avram?
A: The Midrash teaches that Lot initially joined Avram out of admiration for his righteousness and teachings. However, later events (like their separation in Genesis 13) show that Lot did not fully internalize Avram's ways, despite the material benefits he gained.
Q: What can we learn from Lot having flocks and herds like Avram?
A: The Ramban notes that while Lot acquired wealth like Avram, their intentions differed. Avram used his possessions to honor G-d and show hospitality, while Lot's wealth led to conflict (Genesis 13:7). This teaches that material success must be guided by spiritual values.
Q: Why does the verse emphasize that Lot 'went with Avram'?
A: The Talmud (Sotah 21b) derives from this phrasing that Lot was a follower rather than a leader. Though he accompanied Avram physically, he didn't fully commit to Avram's spiritual mission. This shows the difference between superficial and deep connection to righteousness.
Q: How does this verse relate to Jewish values about wealth?
A: The verse illustrates a key Jewish principle: wealth is a test. While both Avram and Lot became wealthy, Avram used his wealth for holy purposes (like hospitality), while Lot's wealth caused strife. This teaches that possessions are only meaningful when used properly.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Bereishit 13:5) describes Lot's material prosperity while accompanying Avram (later Avraham). This occurs after their return from Egypt, where both had acquired wealth. The Torah emphasizes that Lot, though not the primary figure in the narrative, also possessed significant livestock and tents, setting the stage for the subsequent conflict over resources.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that Lot's wealth was directly tied to his association with Avram. He notes that the phrase "הַהֹלֵךְ אֶת־אַבְרָם" ("who went with Avram") implies that Lot's prosperity was a result of being in Avram's company, as Avram was blessed by Hashem. Rashi further comments that the mention of Lot's possessions foreshadows the upcoming dispute between their herdsmen (Bereishit 13:7), which ultimately leads to their separation.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic and Ethical Lessons
The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 6:1) derives from this episode the importance of avoiding disputes, even over material possessions. Avram's willingness to separate rather than fight over grazing land exemplifies the principle of "דרכיה דרכי נועם" ("her ways are ways of pleasantness"). Additionally, the Chofetz Chaim teaches that Lot's attachment to wealth (later leading him to Sodom) serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing material gain over spiritual values.
Literary Significance
The structure of the verse—mentioning Lot's possessions immediately after describing Avram's wealth—creates a contrast. While Avram's wealth is attributed to divine blessing (Bereishit 12:16), Lot's is framed as secondary, emphasizing that true prosperity comes from closeness to tzaddikim and adherence to Hashem's will.