Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Hagar despise Sarah after she conceived?
A: Rashi explains that Hagar began to look down on Sarah because she believed her ability to conceive showed she was more righteous than Sarah, who had been unable to have children. This was a mistake, as Sarah's infertility was a test from Hashem, not a reflection of her righteousness.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Hagar's behavior in this verse?
A: The Midrash teaches that Hagar's arrogance after conceiving shows the danger of pride. Even though she was blessed with pregnancy, she should have remained humble and respectful to Sarah, her mistress. This teaches us to remain modest and grateful for our blessings.
Q: Why did Abraham listen to Sarah's complaint about Hagar in this story?
A: The Talmud (Yevamot 65b) notes that Sarah was greater in prophecy than Abraham, so he trusted her judgment regarding Hagar's behavior. Sarah recognized that Hagar's disrespect could negatively impact the spiritual environment of their home.
Q: How does this verse relate to the concept of 'ayin hara' (the evil eye)?
A: Some commentaries suggest that Hagar's sudden change in attitude after becoming pregnant demonstrates how success can sometimes bring negative spiritual consequences when not handled with proper humility. This connects to the idea of being careful not to attract 'ayin hara' through boastfulness.
Q: What does this story teach us about relationships between people of different statuses?
A: The Rambam (Hilchos Avadim 1:7) derives from this incident that while servants should be treated with kindness, they must still maintain proper respect for their masters. The Torah expects dignified behavior from all parties in hierarchical relationships.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Bereshit 16:4) describes the aftermath of Avram (later Avraham) heeding Sarai's suggestion to take Hagar, her maidservant, as a wife in hopes of having children. After Hagar conceives, she begins to look down upon Sarai, her mistress.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that Hagar's disdain for Sarai stemmed from her newfound status as a pregnant woman. Hagar reasoned that since she was able to conceive while Sarai could not, she must be more righteous in the eyes of Hashem. This haughtiness led her to treat Sarai with disrespect.
Midrashic Insights
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Hilchos Ishus 15:3) discusses the proper relationship between a wife and her maidservant, emphasizing that even if a maidservant bears children for her master, she must still maintain proper respect for her mistress. Hagar's behavior serves as a negative example of failing to uphold this hierarchy.
Moral Lessons