Scripture Spot Logo

Verse of the Day

WEB

Author Spotlight

Loading featured author...

Report Issue

See a formatting issue or error?

Let us know →

Abimelech said to Abraham, "What do these seven ewe lambs which you have set by themselves mean?"

Verse Takeaways

1

A Formal, Symbolic Act

Abimelech's question reveals that Abraham's action was a formal, symbolic gesture, not just a simple gift. Commentators explain that setting aside the seven lambs was a deliberate step in a covenant ceremony, prompting Abimelech to ask for the meaning of this specific part of the ritual.

See 2 Verse Takeaways

Book Overview

Genesis

Author

Audience

Composition

Teaching Highlights

Outline

+ 5 more

See Overview

Commentaries

3

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Genesis 21:1–34

18th Century

Theologian

  1. מלל mı̂lēl “speak,” an ancient and therefore solemn and poetical word.

  2. חמת chêmet “bottle,…

John Gill

John Gill

On Genesis 21:29

17th Century

Pastor

And Abimelech said to Abraham
Observing what he had done, and not knowing the design of it: what do thes…

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Genesis 21:22–34

17th Century

Minister

Abimelech felt sure that the promises of God would be fulfilled to Abraham. It is wise to connect ourselves with those who are blessed by God, and …