נחמיה, פרק ט׳, פסוק ז׳

The foundation of the unique relationship between God and the Israelites is rooted in the historical and spiritual journey of the nation's founding father. This journey marks a profound shift in how God interacts with the world, moving from natural, everyday laws to a miraculous, supernatural guidance reserved for chosen individuals [מלבי״ם]. God selected him to be the very first vessel for this extraordinary way of life.

When he was first chosen by God, he was still known by his original name [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. His departure from his homeland was far more than a simple geographical relocation; it was a dramatic divine intervention and rescue. According to ancient tradition, he was thrown into a fiery furnace by Nimrod for standing against the idol worship of his society, and God miraculously saved Him [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם]. Through this ultimate act of self-sacrifice, he purified himself completely, transforming his inner nature into absolute good [חומת אנך]. The purpose behind this miraculous rescue was to guide him toward a specific, chosen land, laying the groundwork for his descendants to eventually become a treasured people set apart from all other nations [רלב״ג].

The completion of this spiritual process occurred later, once he was already living in the Land of Israel, when God gave him a new name [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This new identity reflected the immense greatness he had achieved as the father of many nations. It also served as a lasting sign that his chosen descendants would inherit the land and merit having the Divine Presence rest among them [רלב״ג, מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם].