“Don’t walk in front of me I may not follow… Don’t walk behind me I may not lead… Just walk beside me and be my friend, and together we will walk in the way of Hashem.” This song was what we sang as kids, and we were told that it embodies the Jewish value of togetherness and bringing others close to Hashem.
While learning this song as a child, we also learned that Avraham was a pillar of Judaism who liked to bring everyone together. However, in Parshat Lech Lecha, Avraham changed this song when it came to Lot, a member of his family. The new words were: “Don’t walk beside me, just go away, whichever path you choose, I’ll go the other way.” How could this be? Why is it different with Lot?
In the parsha, we see that Lot does not want to grow, and does not want to walk in the way of Hashem. Lot was going אֶת Avraham which means that he accompanied Avraham instead of going עִם, with, Avraham. Lot had the potential to grow but kept a distance. In contrast, Avraham gets closer to spirituality and doesn’t put a barrier despite not always knowing what may come or being scared to change. However, while Avraham wanted to be a guide to others, especially to Lot, he recognized that you can’t force people to walk in the way of Hashem.
When Avraham realized that he couldn’t force it and that Lot was purposefully staying away and was starting to cause other people like his shepherds to pick a fight, he recognized what he had to do. He needed to keep Lot away to make sure others would not follow his way. However, if Lot ever needed anything or was willing to take down the barrier he placed on himself, Avraham would be ready to help and to walk with him.
May we always be open to growing and going in the ways of Hashem even when it’s scary. May we always see the truth of Hashem and not put barriers in our way. May we always walk with others in the way of Hashem and not just accompany others on their journey, and may we encourage others to walk with Hashem.
Shira Sedek is a passionate educator currently working toward a master’s degree at Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education and Administration.
