“Now it was after these things that God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham.” “Hineni,” he said.” …….. “But the angel of Adonai called to him from heaven and said, “Abraham! Abraham!” He said, “Hineni!” Then He said, “Do not reach out your hand against the young man—do nothing to him at all. For now I know that you are one who fears G-d—you did not withhold your son, your only son, from Me.””

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭22:1, 11-12‬ ‭TLV‬‬

There’s so much in to say about G-d testing Abraham and the offering of Isaac as a sacrifice. The 3 day journey of carrying the wood and the fire. Abraham’s confidence in G-do’s provision and the subsequent binding of Isaac.

Abraham’s test starts and ends with one word: Hineni (H2009)

The Hebrew in these two verses means literally “Behold me”. 

To behold something means to look or gaze at intently with great appreciation. The word comes from Old English compound – bihaldan – and meant to give great regard to or to hold in view and later was used to describe to keeping, possessing, or protecting something. 

Abraham’s greatest test started and ended with him gazing intently at the sovereign G-d of the universe. Both times G-d called Abraham by name to get his attention then essentially said: BEHOLD ME! SEE ME! 

Once Abraham BEHELD the One True G-d, Elohim, truly looked at and SAW Him, the test paled in comparison. 

Whatever test I am facing, whatever He is asking of me, it pales in comparison with the One True G-d of the Universe. May He find me faithful. May He find my gaze upon Him. And may I hear His voice when He calls me to gaze at and behold Him. 

Father- too often noise drowns out Your voice. Give me ears to hear Your voice above all other noise. Give me eyes to see and truly behold You. Be exalted above all other things in my life and my affections. Amen. 

Today’s reading: Genesis 22-24