Genesis 24:9 - The servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master, and swore to him concerning this matter.
Select Bible Verse
Filter Categories
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
What does "Genesis 24:9" mean?
This verse from Genesis 24:9 describes an ancient custom of oath-taking in the Near East. While it seems strange to us today, it was a solemn and binding way to make a promise. Let's break down the meaning:
"The servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master...": The act of placing a hand under someone's thigh (specifically, near the genitals) was a symbolic gesture.
Possible Interpretations:
Lineage and Descendants: The thigh and reproductive organs are associated with the continuation of Abraham's lineage and God's covenant to make him a great nation. By touching this area, the servant was swearing an oath tied to the future of Abraham's family and the fulfillment of God's promises. The servant was invoking the power of God's promise to Abraham concerning his descendants.
Physical Submission: It might also represent a physical submission and willingness to act on behalf of his master.
Symbol of Strength and Power: The thigh can also be seen as a symbol of strength and vitality, representing the power to carry out the oath.
"...and swore to him concerning this matter.": The servant was making a serious and binding oath to Abraham about finding a suitable wife for his son Isaac from among Abraham's relatives.
In essence, the verse signifies a powerful and sacred oath. By placing his hand under Abraham's thigh, the servant was invoking the importance of Abraham's lineage, God's covenant, and his own responsibility to fulfill his master's wishes. It was a far more solemn act than simply making a verbal promise.
Why this practice is not used today:
Cultures and customs evolve, and what was considered a powerful symbol of commitment in ancient times may not hold the same meaning or be appropriate in modern contexts. Swearing on a religious text or making a verbal promise are common ways to make oaths today.
Genesis 24:9 - The servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master, and swore to him concerning this matter.
What does "Genesis 24:9" mean?
This verse from Genesis 24:9 describes an ancient custom of oath-taking in the Near East. While it seems strange to us today, it was a solemn and binding way to make a promise. Let's break down the meaning:
"The servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master...": The act of placing a hand under someone's thigh (specifically, near the genitals) was a symbolic gesture.
Possible Interpretations:
Lineage and Descendants: The thigh and reproductive organs are associated with the continuation of Abraham's lineage and God's covenant to make him a great nation. By touching this area, the servant was swearing an oath tied to the future of Abraham's family and the fulfillment of God's promises. The servant was invoking the power of God's promise to Abraham concerning his descendants.
Physical Submission: It might also represent a physical submission and willingness to act on behalf of his master.
Symbol of Strength and Power: The thigh can also be seen as a symbol of strength and vitality, representing the power to carry out the oath.
"...and swore to him concerning this matter.": The servant was making a serious and binding oath to Abraham about finding a suitable wife for his son Isaac from among Abraham's relatives.
In essence, the verse signifies a powerful and sacred oath. By placing his hand under Abraham's thigh, the servant was invoking the importance of Abraham's lineage, God's covenant, and his own responsibility to fulfill his master's wishes. It was a far more solemn act than simply making a verbal promise.
Why this practice is not used today:
Cultures and customs evolve, and what was considered a powerful symbol of commitment in ancient times may not hold the same meaning or be appropriate in modern contexts. Swearing on a religious text or making a verbal promise are common ways to make oaths today.