What is the meaning of Genesis 21:30? He replied - Abimelek’s immediate response to Abraham (Genesis 21:28-29) shows he takes the matter seriously, just as Pharaoh promptly answered Joseph in Genesis 41:16. - Scripture consistently portrays dialogue in covenants as purposeful; replies seal understanding (cf. Genesis 24:50). You are to accept - Acceptance establishes agreement, not mere courtesy (Genesis 33:11; 1 Samuel 25:35). - Abraham is not bargaining but instructing, underscoring his God-given authority to secure what is rightfully his (Genesis 12:7; 13:17). The seven ewe lambs - The number seven signals completeness throughout Scripture (Genesis 7:2; Leviticus 4:6). - Ewe lambs are valuable sacrificial animals (Leviticus 4:32), emphasizing costliness. - By choosing “seven,” Abraham publicly ties the well to an oath of fullness and peace. From my hand - Personal transfer eliminates question of ownership (Genesis 43:9; 2 Samuel 24:24). - Abraham’s hand, not a servant’s, conveys accountability and integrity. As my witness - Tangible witnesses were customary in covenants (Genesis 31:48-52; Joshua 24:27). - The lambs stand as perpetual testimony; anyone seeing the flock would recall the agreement. That I dug this well - Wells represented life and inheritance in the arid south (Genesis 26:18-25). - Abraham’s labor is acknowledged; no dispute can arise later. - Centuries afterward, the Samaritan woman referred to Jacob’s well for similar reasons of ancestral claim (John 4:12). summary Genesis 21:30 records Abraham giving Abimelek seven ewe lambs so the king will publicly acknowledge that Abraham himself dug the well at Beersheba. Each phrase advances a formal covenant: a direct reply, an instruction to accept valuable animals, a personal transfer, a living witness, and final affirmation of ownership. The passage models how God’s people secure peace and property with integrity, using clear agreements that honor both parties and stand the test of time. |
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