Topical Bible: Abraham: Lives in Ur, But Removes to Haran

◄ Abraham: Lives in Ur, But Removes to Haran ►

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Background and Early Life in Ur

Abraham, originally named Abram, is a central figure in the Bible, known as the patriarch of the Israelites, Ishmaelites, Edomites, and Midianites. His account begins in the ancient city of Ur of the Chaldeans, located in present-day southern Iraq. Ur was a prominent Sumerian city-state, known for its advanced culture and polytheistic religion. Abram was born into a family that practiced these local traditions, as his father Terah was an idol maker (Joshua 24:2).

Divine Call and Departure from Ur

The narrative of Abram's life takes a pivotal turn with a divine call from God, instructing him to leave his homeland. This call is not explicitly detailed in the initial account of his departure from Ur, but it is later referenced in the New Testament, where Stephen recounts, "Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran" (Acts 7:2).

Journey to Haran

Abram's journey from Ur to Haran is first mentioned in Genesis 11:31: "And Terah took his son Abram, his grandson Lot (the son of Haran), and his daughter-in-law Sarai, the wife of his son Abram, and together they set out from Ur of the Chaldeans to go to Canaan. But when they came to Haran, they settled there" . This move was significant, as it marked the beginning of Abram's journey of faith and obedience to God's call.

Haran, located in what is now southeastern Turkey, was another major city of the ancient Near East. It served as a temporary dwelling place for Abram and his family. The Bible does not provide specific reasons for the family's settlement in Haran, but it is understood as a transitional phase in Abram's life.

Life in Haran

While in Haran, Abram continued to live with his family, including his wife Sarai and his nephew Lot. The Bible notes that Terah, Abram's father, lived to the age of 205 and died in Haran (Genesis 11:32). This period in Haran was crucial for Abram, as it was during this time that God reiterated His call and promise to Abram, setting the stage for his eventual journey to Canaan.

Significance of the Move

Abram's move from Ur to Haran is significant in biblical history as it marks the beginning of God's covenant relationship with him. This journey symbolizes Abram's initial steps of faith and obedience, which would later be foundational to the establishment of the Israelite nation. The move also highlights the theme of divine guidance and providence, as God directed Abram's path according to His purposes and promises.

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Genesis 11:31
And Terah took Abram his son, and Lot the son of Haran his son's son, and Sarai his daughter in law, his son Abram's wife; and they went forth with them from Ur of the Chaldees, to go into the land of Canaan; and they came to Haran, and dwelled there.
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Nehemiah 9:7
You are the LORD the God, who did choose Abram, and brought him forth out of Ur of the Chaldees, and gave him the name of Abraham;
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Acts 7:4
Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelled in Charran: and from there, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein you now dwell.
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