In this week’s parshah, Chayei Sarah, we read how Abraham purchased the Me’arat Hamachpela—the “double cave” where Adam and Eve, Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebecca, and Jacob and Leah are buried. He purchased the cave and the surrounding field, which is in our holy city Hebron.

Abraham starts his request to the Hittites (who lived there at the time) for the burial property, saying: “I am a foreigner and a resident among you.” He goes on to purchase the property for 400 silver shekels.

Why does Abraham say that he is a foreigner and a resident? What lesson can we take from his attitude?

Rashi cites the Midrash explaining Abraham’s words: “If you like, I’m a stranger [to whom you can sell the land]; if not I will soon be a resident and take it legally, since G‑d said to me, ‘I will give this land to your progeny.’ ” Hearing Abraham’s sure attitude, the Hittites respected him and offered him the land.

Abraham knew who he was. He never flinched, knowing that G‑d was with him. He made his case: Sell it to me or lose your G‑d-given right to control the land.

Sometimes, we forget who we are, what is rightfully ours and who our only true ally is.

Who are you? You are a Jew, chosen to share G‑d’s truth with the world. We are respected as “the” people of the book. When we teach truth, the world listens. What is rightfully ours? The Torah and the Land of Israel, which was promised to Abraham. Our only true ally is G‑d, and when we put our trust in Him, instead of the false promises of those who ultimately do what is their best interest, we succeed and the world respects us.

Don’t be afraid to be who you are, and you will be respected by your neighbors and those you come in contact with. It is time to turn to G‑d as you come to realize that He alone can be trusted.

Whether you consider yourself a stranger or a resident makes no difference; only your attitude matters. When you are sure of yourself because you have G‑d and His Torah, the Hittites of the world will respect and follow your lead.

May we soon merit the coming of Moshiach, who will lead us all to our Holy Land and rebuild our Holy Temple, on our Temple Mount. The whole world will be transformed and see the truth we have always had.

Until that day, may our brothers and sisters who live in the holy city of Hebron be safe. May G‑d bless them and reward them.