Welcoming Guests

We learn a great deal about the Mitzva of הכנסת אורחים, welcoming guests, from Avraham Avinu and Sara Imeinu.

The importance of this Mitzva was emphasized when Avraham took leave of Hashem, in order to welcome his three guests. We learn from here that, “Welcoming guests is even greater than accepting the Shechina, the Divine Presence.”

Avraham demonstrated זריזות, or alacrity, in the manner that he received his guests. He ran towards his flock to prepare meat. The narrative describes him as hurrying from place to place in order to make his visitors feel welcome.

He exemplified the idea of the Mishna in Pirkei Avot. “Say a little and do a lot.” He asked his guests to “take a little bit of water.” He did not mention the magnificent feast he and Sara would prepare for them.

He treated his guests with dignity. Although he was concerned that they were idol worshippers, he did not pass judgement. He wanted his guests to feel special.

He had a house full of servants that could have done the work for him. Nevertheless, Avraham insisted on doing all of the serving himself.

These traits are fine examples of how one should fulfill the Mitzva of Hachnasat Orchim. It is not an easy thing to open our homes to other people. It does require a great deal of effort and patience.

We are to learn from Avraham and Sara how to do this in the right way. We must do it with love and kindness. This definitely falls under the category of acts of Chessed, for which Jews are known. Avraham set the example as to how to do this in the most exemplary fashion.