Implications of the Akeida Part 9: Moral Ambiguity and Competing Values

In this shiur, we examine a strange midrash whose implications are not entirely clear.  In the midrash, the Accusing Angel goads Avraham, trying to prevent him from continuing with his task. He appeals to human emotion, saying that even if Avraham can withstand this impossible test – it is just a precursor to other, even more challenging tests. He also argues that Avraham will bear full responsibility for his actions, which will have no benefit to anyone: “Tomorrow, God will say that you are a murderer and completely guilty.” The angel tells Yitzhak (who ostensibly agrees to cooperate with Avraham’s plan) that if he dies, apart from Sarah being heartbroken at having her son stolen away, Yishmael will inherit the special things Sarah labored to give to Yitzhak.  At this point, according to the midrash, Yitzhak asks  his father“where are the sheep for slaughter” as a plea for mercy.

What is this argument, and why is this the climax? Is the prospect of losing material items to be viewed as more horrible than the prospect of theft or killing?

Ultimately, rational ethics are more complicated in real life. When removed from the abstract, in the messiness of life, values are complicated and can clash in unexpected ways.