What is the meaning of Genesis 20:14? So Abimelech brought sheep and cattle The narrative shows immediate, tangible action. Abimelech does not merely apologize; he backs his words with costly livestock. • In Genesis 12:16 Pharaoh also “treated Abram well for her sake,” underscoring that powerful rulers recognize Abraham’s God-given favor. • Job 42:12 records God doubling Job’s livestock, reminding us that prosperity can mark divine vindication. • 1 Samuel 12:3 lists Samuel’s integrity in never taking “an ox or donkey,” highlighting that livestock were real, valuable assets. Abimelech’s gift signals restitution, confession of wrong, and respect for Abraham’s covenant relationship with God. menservants and maidservants Adding servants elevates the compensation from wealth to ongoing benefit—people who will labor and increase Abraham’s household. • Genesis 24:35 notes that “the LORD has blessed my master greatly… he has given him flocks and herds, silver and gold, menservants and maidservants,” confirming that servants were a recognized marker of God’s blessing. • Deuteronomy 15:12-14 commands provision for released servants, reflecting God’s concern for fair treatment. Abimelech’s action aligns with that principle of generous restitution. • Job 1:3 lists “many servants,” linking a large retinue to recognized greatness. Abimelech is acknowledging Abraham’s stature before God. and he gave them to Abraham The transfer is personal and unconditional. • Proverbs 18:16 observes, “A man’s gift clears his way,” and Abimelech’s offering opens a path to restored fellowship. • Genesis 25:5 later states, “Abraham left everything he owned to Isaac,” showing that what Abimelech gives now will ultimately shape Israel’s future inheritance. • Genesis 14:22-23 records Abraham refusing spoil from Sodom’s king; here he accepts Abimelech’s gifts, illustrating discernment—he recognizes these are God-ordained reparations, not worldly bribes. and restored his wife Sarah to him This clause is the heart of the verse: the marital bond is publicly re-established. • Genesis 20:7 carries God’s command, “Now return the man’s wife,” revealing divine priority on marital fidelity. • Genesis 12:19 parallels Pharaoh’s return of Sarah, a reminder that God repeatedly safeguards His covenant lineage. • Matthew 19:6, “What God has joined together, let no man separate,” echoes the timeless principle that marriage is sacred and inviolable. • Hebrews 13:4 affirms that “marriage should be honored by all,” and Abimelech’s act models that honor by restoring Sarah untouched. summary Genesis 20:14 pictures real, historical restitution. Abimelech’s livestock and servants attest to genuine repentance; his personal gift to Abraham honors God’s covenant choice; and the restoration of Sarah safeguards the promised seed. The verse showcases God’s protective hand over marriage and His faithfulness in turning even human error into occasions for blessing Abraham, reinforcing that obedience to God’s revealed commands brings restoration and multiplied grace. |
    |