Genesis 22:20 - After these things, Abraham was told, “Behold, Milcah, she also has borne children to your brother Nahor:

Generated Verse: Genesis 22:20

What does "Genesis 22:20" mean?


Genesis 22:20 serves as a transition and a piece of context in the narrative of Abraham's life. Here's a breakdown of what it means and its significance:

"After these things..." This phrase refers to the events that have just transpired in Genesis 22, primarily the Akedah (the binding of Isaac). God tested Abraham's faith by commanding him to sacrifice his son Isaac. Abraham's willingness to obey God ultimately led to God providing a ram as a substitute sacrifice and renewing his covenant with Abraham.

"Abraham was told..." This means that news was brought to Abraham. The source of this news is unnamed in the text.

"Behold, Milcah, she also has borne children to your brother Nahor:" This is the content of the news. It informs Abraham that his brother Nahor, who had remained in Mesopotamia, had a family. Milcah was Nahor's wife, and she had given him children.

Significance and Context:

A Contrast to Isaac: After the intense focus on Isaac and his near-sacrifice, this verse provides a contrasting image of family and continuation in a different branch of Abraham's lineage.
Setting the Stage for Rebekah: The children of Nahor and Milcah are significant because one of their granddaughters, Rebekah, will eventually become Isaac's wife. This verse subtly prepares the reader for that upcoming development in the narrative. The chapter that follows, Genesis 24, tells the story of how Abraham's servant is sent to find a wife for Isaac from among Abraham's relatives in Mesopotamia.
God's Blessing Beyond Abraham: While the main covenant is with Abraham and his descendants through Isaac, this verse also acknowledges that God's blessing extends to other members of Abraham's family. It highlights the broader scope of God's plan.
Genealogy and Lineage: Genealogy was important in ancient Near Eastern culture, and this verse contributes to the larger genealogical record in Genesis, tracing the connections between different families and peoples.

In essence, Genesis 22:20 is a short verse that acts as a bridge, shifting the focus from the momentous event of the Akedah to the continuation of Abraham's family line through his brother. It sets the stage for future events, particularly the finding of a wife for Isaac. It also serves to remind the reader that God's plans are bigger than just one individual or one event.

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