I think what Axel said today was nothing short of brilliant, especially as it solves also the problems we’ve been working on in our former sessions.

G-d is trying to engage Avraham in a dialogue. But Avraham conceives him as someone to obey. This is why Avraham comments on the lack of fear of G-d in the Philistines. Instead of turning to G-d for deliverance he resorts to deception – always the weapon of the weak. But when G-d tells Avimelech to ask Avraham to pray for him he also speaks to Avraham through Avimelech: talk to me! I can and will grant your requests. After that experience, Avraham in our chapter – does just that: he answer “back”. There is a dialogue.

Now, G-d is “happy”. Avraham has learned to question G-d, while retaining his trust in Him – even when proof is as flimsy as the starlight.

G-d wants from Avraham more than silent obedience.