What does Genesis 22:10 mean?
What is the meaning of Genesis 22:10?

Then

- The word signals immediate continuation of God’s command in Genesis 22:2–9. Abraham moves at once; there is no delay.

- This quick obedience mirrors earlier moments—“So Abram went, as the LORD had told him” (Genesis 12:4).

- Hebrews 11:17–18 recalls this scene to commend a faith that responds instantly.


Abraham

- Scripture keeps the focus on the covenant bearer. He is the friend of God (James 2:23) acting in personal trust, not mechanical ritual.

- By naming him again, the text underscores that the test concerns his relationship with the LORD, not simply a religious duty.

- Hebrews 11:19 reminds us he “reasoned that God could raise the dead,” revealing an unwavering confidence in God’s promise about Isaac (Genesis 21:12).


Reached out his hand

- A deliberate, visible gesture. Faith moves from inner conviction to outward action.

- Similar wording shows decisive acts in salvation history—Moses “stretched out his hand over the sea” (Exodus 14:21) and Peter “stretched out his hand and took hold of Him” (Matthew 14:31).

- In Abraham’s case, the gesture embodies surrender of what is dearest.


And took the knife

- The knife was the normal instrument for a burnt offering (Leviticus 1:11). Abraham is treating Isaac exactly as a sacrificial animal—total consecration.

- The narrative heightens tension: every step makes the cost clearer.

- John the Baptist later points to “the Lamb of God” (John 1:29), showing that ultimate sacrifice will finally be God’s own Son.


To slaughter his son

- The word “slaughter” leaves no doubt; Abraham intends full obedience.

- Romans 8:32 echoes the scene: “He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all…”—God would do what He stopped Abraham from doing.

- Mark 10:45 reminds us the Son of Man “came to give His life as a ransom for many,” fulfilling the picture set up on Moriah.

- The narrative therefore foreshadows substitution: a ram will die in Isaac’s place (Genesis 22:13), just as Christ will die in ours (1 Peter 3:18).


summary

Genesis 22:10 captures the climactic moment of Abraham’s test. Each phrase underlines prompt, wholehearted obedience that flows from faith in God’s unbreakable promises. Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac points ahead to the Father’s willingness to offer Christ, yet also highlights God’s provision of a substitute. The verse stands as a vivid call to trust and obey, knowing that the LORD both tests and provides.

What is the significance of the altar in Genesis 22:9?
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