Why Abraham Slew the Four Kings Who First Drew the Sword

Midrash Tanchuma Buber, Lech Lecha 7:3

Curated by Arthur·Translated by Maggid (Beta)·

Another interpretation of (Psalms 37:15) "Their sword shall enter their own heart": These are the four kings, Amraphel and his companions, for until now there had been no war in the world. They came and opened with the sword, as it is said (Genesis 14:1), "And it came to pass in the days of Amraphel" — they began to make war. The Holy One, blessed be He, said to them: You are wicked! You have opened with the sword. Let the sword enter the heart of those same men, as it is said (Psalms 37:15), "Their sword shall enter their own heart." Immediately Abraham rose up against them and killed them, as it is said (Genesis 14:15), "And he divided himself against them by night."

Themes

Divine JusticeAbraham

Biblical References

Continue Reading

Book of JubileesFourteen-Year-Old Abram Drives Away the RavensLet me tell you a story from the Book of Jubilees, an ancient Jewish text that expands on stories from the Torah. It’s sowing season. The time when farmers scatBook of JubileesAccount of AbrahamIt is often remembered as a slow, gradual process. But what if I told you there's a story that credits Abraham with being the original agricultural innovator? IBook of JubileesAbraham Reads the Stars and Learns HebrewBook of Jubilees turns to Abraham Reads the Stars and Learns Hebrew. In the 12th chapter of Jubilees, we find Abraham at a pivotal moment. He's just finished prBook of JubileesAbraham Studies His Fathers' Books Written in HebrewIt led him on a journey, not just geographically, but a journey of the mind and soul. The Book of Jubilees, a fascinating text that expands on the stories we fiBook of JubileesAbraham Arrives at the Oak of ShechemFor a home, for a future, for a connection to something bigger than himself. And then he arrives at Shechem. The Book of Jubilees, a fascinating text that expanBook of JubileesLot Separates From Abraham and Grief FollowsBook of Jubilees turns to Lot Separates From Abraham and Grief Follows. The story picks up with Lot, Avram’s nephew, deciding to separate from him. Now, Lot was