“Abraham traveled from there to the region of the south; he lived between Kadesh and Shur, and he resided in Gerar” (Genesis 20:1). “Abraham traveled from there to the region of the south” – Rabbi Avun began: “Indeed, a falling mountain crumbles, and a rock moves away from its place” (Job 14:18). “Indeed, a falling mountain”1This could also be translated: “One who falls from a mountain.” – this is Lot, who had his downfall on a mountain.2He experienced a great spiritual downfall due to what transpired between him and his daughters on a mountain.
“And a rock” – this is Abraham.3See Isaiah 51:1–2. “Moves away from its place” – he vacated his place of abode. This was because the area of Sodom had been destroyed and travelers to and from [that area] ceased. He said: ‘What, shall I allow the practice of benevolence to cease from my house?’ So he went and pitched a tent for himself in Gerar. That is what is written: “Abraham traveled from there.”