In Bereshit 18:2 it is written, “Three men [angels] stood over him [Avraham],” and later in 18:8, “he [Avraham] stood over them [the angels].”

How do we understand that the angels first stood over Avraham and later he stood over them?

Rabbi Tzadok HaCohen teaches that this shift reveals Avraham’s spiritual elevation — a result of the joy and passion he infused into the mitzvah of hachnasat orchim (hosting guests).

The change reflects Avraham’s spiritual ascent through his performance of the mitzvah of hachnasat orchim — welcoming guests with warmth and devotion.

The greatness of Avraham’s actions lies not in the physical act itself, but in the passion, joy, and enthusiasm that flowed from his heart.

The Zohar teaches that the value of a mitzvah depends on the love and energy we bring to it. As the Torah states (Devarim 30:14):

“This matter [the Torah] is very close to you — in your mouth and in your heart — that you may do it.”

When one fulfills mitzvot with love and passion, Hashem responds in kind, blessing that person with even greater love and enthusiasm to continue doing good.