1)

Why did he begin with, "I am Avraham's slave"?

1.

Bava Kama 92b: This shows that one should tell his own disgrace (before others reveal it). 1

2.

Hadar Zekenim, Riva: This explained why he needed to speak before he could eat - first he must perform his mission.

3.

Ohr Yechezkel (Midos, p. 241): True greatness is not to aggrandize oneself in a Midah that he does not have. He did not want them to think that he is an overseer over Avraham's property.

4.

Malbim: This showed his importance. Avraham has many slaves - I am his special slave, who oversees all his property.

5.

Ha'amek Davar: He explained why he will not eat before doing his mission, for his master's mission is more important than himself.


1

Mishnas R. Aharon (Vol. 1, p. 139): This is not lest others reveal it. Rather, it is due to Midas ha'Musar. If not, he could have said "I am the officer authorized over all Avraham's property"!

Sefer: Perek: Pasuk:

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