Become a premium member today to unlock the full library with unlimited and uninterrupted access
Get StartedHagar and Egypt
The Troubling Story of Hagar's Oppression
In Parshat Vayera, we read the troubling story of Hagar and her son Ishmael, who are kicked out of the house by Abraham and Sarah and left to survive on their own in the desert. It seems so cruel of Abraham and Sarah! What should we think when we see such disturbing actions?
There’s something else that’s puzzling here: Hagar’s story sounds eerily familiar. It reminds us of when the Israelites were oppressed in Egypt and then sent away into the desert. Is this a mere coincidence? Or is there more to these parallels?
In this video and its Epilogue, Rabbi Fohrman suggests that there is a powerful connection between the story of Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar and the story of the Exodus – and that there is a powerful lesson to be learned about how we treat others.
Want to watch the full video for free?
Enter your email and we’ll send you a link to watch the full series free.
What is Aleph Beta?
Aleph Beta is a unique kind of Torah library. Led by our founder, Rabbi David Fohrman, we are dedicated to high-level, textual Torah learning for adults that is intellectually and spiritually sophisticated, that enlivens your Jewish practice and helps you forge a deeper connection to God. Whether you’ve been learning in yeshiva for years or you’re just beginning your Torah journey, you’re sure to find something meaningful and surprising waiting for you here.
Browse our library of over 1,000 beautifully produced animated videos, podcasts, deep dive courses, and printable guides. Topics include the weekly parsha, Jewish holidays & fast days, laws & mitzvot, prayers, relationships, big philosophical ideas and more. Have something to say at the Shabbos table that will amaze your family and guests and bring deep meaning into their lives.
