Genesis 13:17 - Arise, walk through the land in its length and in its width; for I will give it to you.”

Generated Verse: Genesis 13:17

What does "Genesis 13:17" mean?


This verse, Genesis 13:17, is a promise from God to Abram (later Abraham) regarding the land of Canaan. Let's break down its meaning:

"Arise, walk through the land in its length and in its width...": This is an active command. God is telling Abram to get up and explore the land. It's not just about owning it on paper, but experiencing it, seeing its boundaries, and claiming it through his physical presence. "Length and width" signifies the entire territory.

"...for I will give it to you.": This is the core of the promise. God is reiterating his commitment to give Abram this land as a possession. The act of walking through it underscores Abram's future ownership and his right to it.

In essence, the verse means:

God is affirming his promise: He had previously promised Abram this land, and this verse reinforces that promise.
It emphasizes physical possession: It's not just a spiritual or abstract concept; God intends for Abram and his descendants to physically inhabit and control the land.
It calls for active faith: Abram is called to act on God's promise by exploring and claiming the land, demonstrating his belief in God's word.
It signifies a future inheritance: The land is a gift, a future inheritance that Abram can anticipate and prepare for.

The verse is significant because it establishes the foundation for the special relationship between God and Abraham's descendants, the Israelites, and their claim to the land of Canaan. It's a key verse in understanding the biblical narrative about the Promised Land.

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