Genesis 20:15

Translations

Modern

And Abimelech said, “Look, my land is before you. Settle wherever you please.”

Traditional

And Abimelech said, Behold, my land is before thee: dwell where it pleaseth thee.

Literal

And Abimelech said, “Behold, my land is before you. Dwell wherever is good in your eyes.”

Latin

…et ait: Terra coram vobis est, ubicumque tibi placuerit habita.

Original

Hebrew

English

And Abimelech said, “Look, my land is before you. Settle wherever you please.”

Notes

Genesis 20:14–16

Abimelech showed he was an honorable person by making things right (see study note on 20:4–5). He made things right by letting Abraham live in the area. He also gave him slaves, livestock (compare 21:27), and 1,000 pieces of silver to make up for any wrong done to Sarah.

Genesis 20:1–18

This second "sister story" in Genesis (compare 12:10–20) happened just before Sarah became pregnant with Isaac (chapter 21). In both instances, God protected Abraham and Sarah's marriage to keep it pure for the covenant promises. To be part of God's plan, his people must separate from worldly corruption.
This story happened in the promised land. It showed Israel how God intervened in people's lives to fulfill his plan. He protected them from threats from other tribes. He used his chosen people to mediate his relationship with other nations.
By preventing adultery from destroying Abraham's marriage, God reminded the Israelites not to marry those who would lead them away from the Lord (Ezra 9:1–4; Nehemiah 13:23–27; Malachi 2:10–17). They should not allow any chance for temptation. Adultery would eventually destroy the covenant and the people.

Theme notes and profiles

Abraham Isaac Sarah Symbolic Numbers The Plagues

Related verses

Genesis 13:9
Is not the whole land before you? Now separate yourself from me. If you go to the left, I will go to the right; if you go to the right, I will go to the left.”
Genesis 34:10
You may settle among us, and the land will be open to you. Live here, move about freely, and acquire your own property.”
Genesis 47:6
…the land of Egypt is before you; settle your father and brothers in the best part of the land. They may dwell in the land of Goshen. And if you know of any talented men among them, put them in charge of my own livestock.”

People

Abimelech: Philistine king who interacted with Abraham and Isaac

Glossary

Abimelech Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Dreams Ebla Tablets Genesis, Book of Money Patriarchs, Period of the Philistia, Philistines Sarah

Topics

Good for Evil: Returning: Abraham, to Abimelech Hospitality: Abimelech to Abraham Ignorance: Punishment of Sins of Abimelech

Genesis 20:15

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