Genesis 21:28 kjv

And Abraham set seven ewe lambs of the flock by themselves.

Genesis 21:28 nkjv

And Abraham set seven ewe lambs of the flock by themselves.

Genesis 21:28 niv

Abraham set apart seven ewe lambs from the flock,

Genesis 21:28 esv

Abraham set seven ewe lambs of the flock apart.

Genesis 21:28 nlt

But Abraham also took seven additional female lambs and set them off by themselves.

Genesis 21 verses

Genesis 21 28 Meaning

This verse describes Abraham's specific action of separating seven ewe lambs from his flock and setting them apart. This action is preparatory for the covenant agreement he is about to establish with Abimelech concerning a well at Beersheba. It signifies an intentional and formal act, laying the groundwork for a pledge and a public witness.

Genesis 21 28 Context

Genesis chapter 21 continues the story of Abraham and Sarah, specifically highlighting the birth of Isaac, Hagar and Ishmael's expulsion, and this interaction with Abimelech. Prior to this verse, Abimelech, King of Gerar, along with his military commander Phicol, approached Abraham to establish a sworn treaty, recognizing God's blessing on Abraham (Gen 21:22). Abraham had reproved Abimelech concerning a well seized by Abimelech's servants (Gen 21:25). The broader historical and cultural context involves covenant-making practices in the ancient Near East, where solemn agreements were often sealed with specific rituals, including the setting aside or sacrificing of animals as a pledge or witness to the oath. The dispute over water wells was common in arid lands and required clear agreements to prevent conflict. This particular act is a prelude to naming the place Beersheba, meaning "well of the oath" or "well of the seven."

Genesis 21 28 Word analysis

• And (וַיָּצֶב - wa·ya·tsev): This is a waw-consecutive, prefixed to the imperfect tense of the verb. It functions to continue the narrative, indicating that Abraham's action immediately follows his conversation with Abimelech. It smoothly connects the agreement for a covenant with its ceremonial execution.
• Abraham (אַבְרָהָם - 'Avraham): The patriarch chosen by God, central to the covenant promises. His actions here reflect his role as the head of the covenant household and a man of integrity who honors agreements.
• set / placed (וַיָּצֶב - wa·ya·tsev): From the root נָצַב (natsav), meaning "to stand, place, set up." This verb implies a deliberate, formal, and even public positioning. It's not just "put down" but "set firmly" or "presented." This suggests the ewe lambs are being established in a specific manner for their ceremonial purpose.
• seven (שֶׁבַע - sheva): A numeral of immense symbolic significance in Hebrew thought, deeply tied to completeness, perfection, divine order, and importantly, an oath or covenant. Phonetically, "seven" (sheva) is directly related to the Hebrew word for "oath" (shevu'ah) and "to swear" (shava'). Therefore, the inclusion of seven animals immediately points towards the solemnity of the upcoming oath. It provides a visual pledge or confirmation.
• ewe lambs (כִּבְשׂוֹת - kibshōt): Specifically female lambs. Lambs are often associated with purity, innocence, and suitability for offerings. In this context, they are likely not primarily for immediate sacrifice but as a witness (similar to the root š-b-ʿ implying a solemn declaration accompanied by something "sevened"). They are valuable livestock, representing a significant pledge.
• of the flock (הַצֹּאן - ha·tsohn): Denotes that these lambs are from Abraham's existing and valuable possession. This underscores the sincerity and cost of his pledge, drawing from his tangible assets.
• by themselves (לְבַדְהֶן - levadehen): This adverbial phrase means "alone," "apart," or "separate from them." It signifies that these seven ewe lambs were distinctively isolated from the rest of the flock for a specific ceremonial or symbolic purpose, highlighting their designation for the covenant ritual as witnesses or tokens.

Words-group analysis:

• "And Abraham set": This indicates Abraham's proactive and intentional role in establishing the covenant. He isn't passive; he orchestrates the details of the agreement's sealing.
• "seven ewe lambs": This phrase encapsulates the core symbolism of the action. The number 'seven' powerfully evokes the concept of an oath or sworn agreement, and the 'lambs' serve as the physical, valuable token of that oath, underscoring the sincerity and commitment involved.
• "set...by themselves": This emphasizes the deliberate ritualistic separation and designation of these animals for a unique, sacred purpose within the covenant-making process. They are singled out to act as silent witnesses to the solemn vow about to be made.

Genesis 21 28 Bonus section

The act described in Gen 21:28 and the subsequent verses provides a fascinating insight into the etymology of the significant place name "Beersheba." The dual meaning associated with sheva (seven) and shevu'ah (oath) is critical. Abraham did not merely count out seven lambs; he enacted a formal public sign using that symbolic number, literally embodying the forthcoming sworn agreement regarding the well. This sets a precedent for Beersheba as a place of covenant, peace, and Divine promise throughout the biblical narrative. It also illustrates how a simple, deliberate act can hold profound symbolic weight in confirming truths and establishing enduring agreements. Abraham's detailed engagement in this practice affirms his character as a faithful covenant keeper, reflecting the nature of the God with whom he himself had covenanted.

Genesis 21 28 Commentary

Genesis 21:28 marks Abraham's purposeful act to formalize his covenant with Abimelech. By setting aside "seven ewe lambs by themselves," Abraham initiates a specific cultural ritual known in the ancient Near East as a visual pledge or witness, underscoring the sanctity and binding nature of an oath. The number seven (Hebrew: sheva) is intentionally chosen for its deep association with the Hebrew word for oath (Hebrew: shevu'ah), reinforcing that this arrangement is to be a sworn agreement. These lambs are not primarily intended as immediate burnt offerings but as a material testimony, serving to confirm the integrity of Abraham's claim to the well. This act paves the way for the naming of "Beersheba," the "well of the oath," immortalizing the significance of this agreement and Abraham's uprightness. This narrative demonstrates the importance of integrity, solemn promises, and respectful dealings even with those outside the immediate covenant family of God.