Torah Portion Lech Lecha – Faith and Obedience
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Torah: Genesis 12:1-17:27
Haftarah: Isaiah 40:27-41:16
Besorah: John 1:35-51
Cheshvan 8, 5785 | November 9, 2024
Shalom Chaverim (Friends)!
This week’s Torah portion, Lech Lecha (Genesis 12:1–17:27), introduces us to one of the most transformative journeys in Scripture—Abram’s call to leave everything he knows and follow God into the unknown.
This is a defining moment not only for Abram but for all who choose to walk in faith. Through Lech Lecha, God calls us to step into something greater than ourselves, a journey that’s not about perfection but obedience.
As we explore the Torah, Haftarah, and Besorah readings, we’ll see how Abram’s journey echoes the strength and obedience that God invites us to embrace today.
You can download a printable copy of this portion along with study and reflection questions at the end of this post!
Torah Portion: Genesis 12:1-17:27
Understanding the Portion
The Torah portion opens with a command from God to Abram that comes with no fanfare or prior introduction:
“Lech Lecha—Go forth from your country, from your family, and from your father’s house, to the land that I will show you”
Genesis 12:1, TLV
This phrase, Lech Lecha, literally means “Go for yourself” or “Go for your own benefit.” God is calling Abram to leave his comfort zone, not just for God’s purposes but for Abram’s growth, blessing, and transformation. In a way, this journey is as much for Abram as it is for the divine plan.
What’s interesting here is that there’s no background or “introduction” to God’s relationship with Abram. In Genesis 11, we read about the Tower of Babel and then a genealogy that “bookends” the story, closing one chapter and opening another. Suddenly, in Genesis 12, we encounter Abram mid-story, with God commanding him to “go.”
Midrash Rabbah offers a powerful metaphor to illustrate this moment: There is a traveler who saw a palace in flames and wondered, “Doesn’t this palace have a master?” Then, the owner appeared and said, “I am the master of the palace.”
Similarly, Abram, aware of a higher power in the world, sought the Creator, and God revealed Himself, not through a grand proclamation but with a simple command that would define Abram’s journey of faith. By following God’s call, Abram discovers who God truly is—the Master of the world.
With this call, God gives Abram a promise that extends beyond himself, touching all nations. The blessings promised to Abram—land, descendants, and blessing—are not rewards for perfection but for Abram’s willingness to trust and obey.
Through Abram’s faithfulness, he becomes a “father of many nations,” showing that obedience is not just a duty; it’s a pathway to blessing and transformation.
A Little Nugget: Lech Lecha (Go for Yourself)
The Hebrew words Lech Lecha (לֶךְ לְךָ) carry rich meaning. More than just “go forth,” it can mean “go for yourself” or “go for your own benefit.” This command isn’t about blind compliance; it’s an invitation to growth. When God calls us, He’s often inviting us to step out, not just for His plan but for our own journey of becoming who He created us to be.
Application: Stepping Out in Faith
Abram’s story shows us that obedience to God is a journey with lasting impact. Like Abram, we’re often called to “go” without knowing exactly where the journey will lead. This week, consider where God might be calling you to step out in faith, even if it feels uncertain. Trust that when God calls, He also promises to guide, protect, and bless us along the way.
Haftarah: Isaiah 40:27-41:16
Understanding the Portion
In the Haftarah from Isaiah, we find a message of reassurance for those who may feel weary or abandoned. The people of Israel, feeling distant from God, are reminded that God’s strength is everlasting and that He has not forgotten them. God’s words to them echo themes of courage and reassurance:
“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God”
Isaiah 41:10, TLV
This call to “fear not” is timely, and it aligns with Abram’s journey into the unknown. God acknowledges our human fears and doubts but reassures us of His unwavering presence and support.
Abram’s journey required great courage, and in the same way, we are reminded that God strengthens those who are weary, upholds those who stumble, and empowers those who feel inadequate.
The words from Isaiah highlight that while our journey may be filled with challenges, we are not alone. Just as God supported Abram, He supports us, asking only that we trust Him.
A Little Nugget: Al Tira (Do Not Fear)
The phrase “Al Tira” (אַל־תִּירָא), meaning “Do not fear,” appears throughout the Bible as a gentle reminder of God’s protection. It is especially meaningful in times of uncertainty. God’s call to “go” is always accompanied by the promise of His presence and strength, just as it was for Abram and the people of Israel.
Application: Finding Strength in God’s Presence
As Isaiah reminds us, God is our strength when we are weak and our courage when we feel afraid. This week, reflect on areas where you may feel hesitant or fearful. How can you trust in God’s presence to guide you forward? Remember that He goes with you, just as He went with Abram and Israel, providing strength and peace.
Besorah: John 1:35-51
Understanding the Portion
In the Besorah portion from John, we witness the calling of Yeshua’s first disciples. John the Immerser introduces Yeshua with the words, “Behold, the Lamb of God” (John 1:36, TLV), leading some of his disciples to follow Yeshua. Like Abram, these disciples are called to leave behind what they know, to follow a path they can’t fully see.
One of these disciples, Nathanael, is initially skeptical. But when Yeshua reveals knowledge about him, Nathanael responds with faith, calling Him the Son of God and the King of Israel. In this moment, Yeshua assures Nathanael that he will see “greater things than these,” inviting him to a journey of faith and discovery, just as Abram was invited.
Yeshua’s call to His disciples is like God’s call to Abram—it’s an invitation to “go forth” in faith, to leave behind old patterns and follow a path that transforms and blesses.
A Little Nugget: Talmidim (Disciples)
The Hebrew term Talmidim (תַּלְמִידִים), meaning “disciples” or “students,” refers to those who choose to follow and learn from a teacher. Like Abram, Yeshua’s disciples left behind their known lives for a journey of growth and learning. Being a disciple means embracing transformation, moving forward with a heart open to God’s leading.
Application: Following Yeshua in Faith
As Yeshua’s disciples took steps of faith to follow Him, we, too, are called to answer His invitation in our lives. This week, consider what it means to be a disciple, to walk with Yeshua as Abram walked with God. Are there steps of faith you’re hesitant to take? Remember, God’s call to “go” is always for our benefit, drawing us closer to His purpose and blessing.
Connecting the Readings: Trust, Obedience, and Transformation
The theme that unites these readings is the call to obey and trust even when the way ahead is unclear. Abram, Isaiah’s audience, and Yeshua’s disciples each had to place their trust in God, stepping out in faith to follow His voice.
1. Embracing Your “Lech Lecha” Moment
- Where might God be calling you to “go for yourself”? Reflect on what new steps or changes you may be called to take for your own growth.
2. Trusting God’s Presence and Strength
- Isaiah reminds us of God’s assurance: “Do not fear, for I am with you.” Reflect on where you need to trust in God’s strength and presence in your life, especially in moments of uncertainty.
3. Becoming a Disciple in Spirit and Action
- Like the disciples, we’re each called to follow Yeshua in faith. Consider how you can deepen your walk with Him, stepping out as a true Talmid.
Shabbat Shalom! I hope that Lech Lecha inspires you to step forward in faith, knowing that each step draws you closer to God’s promises and purposes. 🌿
For a printable version of this portion along with study and reflection questions, follow the link below!
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Tree of Life (TLV) – Scripture taken from the Holy Scriptures, Tree of Life Version*. Copyright © 2014,2016 by the Tree of Life Bible Society. Used by permission of the Tree of Life Bible Society.

About Our Author
Diane Ferreira is a Jewish believer, wife, and mom, as well as a proud bulldog mom. She is currently pursuing her graduate degree in Jewish Studies at seminary, deepening her passion for Scripture and Jewish history. Diane writes with a heart to connect the rich traditions of her Jewish heritage with her faith in Yeshua, offering insights that inspire believers to grow in their walk with God. When she’s not studying or writing, Diane enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and crochet.