Question: I just finished reading the Torah portion of Vayera, and I am left with a question about it. We learn that Abraham pleaded for the town of Sodom to great lengths; however, in regards to his own son Isaac, he appears to accept this more willingly, what is the Talmud’s position on this?

Answer: Great Question. In fact many of the commentaries ask the same one.

The common answer is that Sodom was a punishment and Abraham hoped to save them and hoped they would repent through the help of the righteous that remained. They were estranged from the service of G-d and Abraham was trying to bring them closer. 

The binding of Isaac was not a punishment, rather a command from G-d for service and dedication – mercy was not the issue. It was a litmus test to see how dedicated and close Abraham was to G-d.

All the Best, Rabbi Zvi Holland