Saint Abraham, Patriarch
Abraham, the biblical patriarch, is a central figure in the Abrahamic religions, including Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Her story is a journey of faith, obedience and trust in God.
Origins and Calling
Abraham, a direct descendant of Shem, one of Noah's sons, was born in Ur of the Chaldees, in Lower Mesopotamia, which today corresponds to modern Iraq. Its history is recorded in the book of Genesis and marks the beginning of the history of the Patriarchs of Israel, between the 19th and 17th centuries BC
The Journey of Faith
Abraham's story begins with his epic journey of faith. At the age of 75, he, his father Taré, his wife Sarah and his grandson Lot, son of his late brother Aram, left Ur and went to the Land of Canaan. They settled in Haran, where they remained for a while. After Taré's death, God called Abraham to a mysterious mission.
God's Call
God spoke to Abraham and called him to follow a journey of faith, promising him great descendants. With his wife, his grandson and his flocks, Abraham left again, crossing Palestine, without knowing his final destination. At one point, Abraham and Lot separated, with Lot heading toward the Jordan Valley, near Sodom.
Covenant and Circumcision
During this journey, Abraham had frequent divine encounters. God confirmed his promise of offspring to Abraham and instituted the practice of circumcision as a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham. All the men in his family were circumcised as part of this covenant.
Angels in Mambré
One of the most notable passages in Abraham's life involves an encounter with three angels near the Mambré oak. These angels prophesied the birth of Isaac, but they also announced the destruction of the sinful cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Only Lot and his wife were spared, although she disobeyed and turned into a pillar of salt.
The Test of Faith
The most challenging moment in Abraham's life came when God asked him to sacrifice his son Isaac. Isaac was the son that Abraham and Sarah had been waiting for for a long time and that God had given them. Abraham, ready to obey God, took Isaac for sacrifice. However, God intervened, sending an angel to prevent Isaac's sacrifice, rewarding Abraham's immeasurable faith and obedience.
Abraham's Legacy
Abraham, known as the “Father of all who believe,” left a lasting legacy. Their descent through Isaac gave rise to the Hebrews, while their descent through Ishmael gave rise to the Arabs. The story of Abraham is a testimony to the importance of faith, obedience to God and the willingness to follow the divine calling, even when circumstances seem impossible.