◄ Genesis 13 ►
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Abram and Lot Part Ways 1So Abram went up out of Egypt into the Negev—he and his wife and all his possessions—and Lot was with him. 2And Abram had become extremely wealthy in livestock and silver and gold. 3From the Negev he journeyed from place to place toward Bethel, until he came to the place between Bethel and Ai where his tent had formerly been pitched, 4to the site where he had built the altar. And there Abram called on the name of the LORD. 5Now Lot, who was traveling with Abram, also had flocks and herds and tents. 6But the land was unable to support both of them while they stayed together, for they had so many possessions that they were unable to coexist. 7And there was discord between the herdsmen of Abram and the herdsmen of Lot. At that time the Canaanites and the Perizzites were also living in the land. 8So Abram said to Lot, “Please let there be no contention between you and me, or between your herdsmen and my herdsmen. After all, we are kinsmen. 9Is 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.” Lot Proceeds toward Sodom 10And Lot looked out and saw that the whole plain of the Jordan, all the way to Zoar, was well watered like the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt. (This was before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah.) 11So Lot chose the whole plain of the Jordan for himself and set out toward the east. And Abram and Lot parted company. 12Abram lived in the land of Canaan, but Lot settled in the cities of the plain and pitched his tent toward Sodom. 13But the men of Sodom were wicked, sinning greatly against the LORD. God Renews the Promise to Abram 14After Lot had departed, the LORD said to Abram, “Now lift up your eyes from the place where you are, and look to the north and south and east and west, 15for all the land that you see, I will give to you and your offspring forever.a 16I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if one could count the dust of the earth, then your offspring could be counted. 17Get up and walk around the land, through its length and breadth, for I will give it to you.” 18So Abram moved his tent and went to live near the Oaksb of Mamre at Hebron, where he built an altar to the LORD. Footnotes: 15 a Cited in Galatians 3:16 18 b Or Terebinths or Great Trees Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Genesis 13 Summary Abram and Lot Part Ways Verses 1–4 – Return to the Promised Land and Renewed Worship Abram, Sarai, and Lot travel back from Egypt to the Negev, laden with livestock, silver, and gold. Abram retraces his earlier journey to the altar between Bethel and Ai, where he calls on the name of the LORD again. Verses 5–7 – Growing Wealth and Growing Tension Lot’s flocks and herds multiply alongside Abram’s, and the land cannot sustain them both. Strife breaks out between their herdsmen, while Canaanites and Perizzites occupy the land, adding pressure to available pasture. Verses 8–13 – Abram’s Peacemaking and Lot’s Choice Abram offers Lot first choice of territory, placing peace above personal gain. Lot chooses the fertile, well-watered Jordan Valley, moving his tents toward Sodom, a region already notorious for wickedness. Verses 14–18 – God Expands the Promise and Abram Builds an Altar After Lot departs, God tells Abram to look north, south, east, and west: every direction will belong to his offspring forever. Abram moves to Hebron, settles by the oaks of Mamre, and builds another altar, affirming his trust in the promise. This chapter unfolds the account of Abram and Lot's separation due to growing wealth and ensuing conflict. The narrative further reveals the consequences of choices, the significance of divine promises, and the continuous faith and obedience of Abram to God's instructions. Historical Context Abram likely returns around the early second millennium BC, when pastoral nomads commonly shifted between Egypt and Canaan during droughts. Egypt’s Nile made it a refuge (Genesis 12:10), while Canaan’s hilly spine offered seasonal grazing. Geography and Archaeology • Bethel (modern Beitin) and Ai (et-Tell) sit on adjacent ridges north of Jerusalem. Excavations reveal Bronze Age occupation layers consistent with Abram’s era. • The Jordan Valley’s lush plains near the Dead Sea were fed by the Jordan River and seasonal springs. Today the region is arid and salty, but geological surveys show evidence of earlier fertility. • Hebron’s ancient oaks (terebinths of Mamre) became a landmark; Iron Age altar stones unearthed nearby hint at continuous sacred use. Abram’s Wealth: Camels, Silver, and Gold Camels appear in Genesis 12–13, and petroglyphs in Arabia depict domesticated camels by 2000 BC. Silver shekels served as portable banking; gold was often carried as rings or disks (Genesis 24:22). Abram’s riches illustrate God’s earlier promise of blessing (Genesis 12:2). Conflict Resolution and Family Peace Abram’s words: “Let there be no strife between you and me” (Genesis 13:8). He values relationship over resources, echoing later commands: “Make every effort to live in peace” (Romans 12:18). His voluntary surrender foreshadows Christ’s teaching on self-denial (Luke 9:23). Lot’s Choice and Spiritual Vision Lot sees with natural eyes—“like the garden of the LORD” (Genesis 13:10)—but ignores moral danger. This anticipates 2 Peter 2:7-8, which calls Lot “a righteous man” yet “tormented by the depraved conduct of the lawless.” Fertility does not equal favor if wickedness surrounds it. Canaanites and Perizzites Migrations from Anatolia and the Aegean brought new settlers (the Perizzites meaning “village dwellers”). Their presence highlights limited space and competing claims, making Abram’s peaceful proposal even more remarkable. Development of the Promise Genesis 12:7 gave the land “to your offspring.” Genesis 13 redoubles it: visible territory plus dust-like descendants (v. 16). The same boundaries reappear in Genesis 15:18-21 and are echoed in Exodus 23:31 and Joshua 1:3-4, showing continuity of God’s pledge. Altars and Worship Abram’s altars mark crossroads of obedience: Shechem (12:7), Bethel/Ai (12:8; 13:4), and Hebron (13:18). Each altar combines sacrifice, prayer, and public witness. Hebrews 13:15 urges believers to “continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise,” mirroring Abram’s pattern. Foreshadowing of Sodom’s Judgment Genesis 13:13 signals coming trouble: “Now the men of Sodom were wicked, great sinners against the LORD.” This early note prepares for Genesis 19 and highlights the danger of incremental compromise—Lot first pitches tents near Sodom, later lives inside the city. Character Study: Abram • Relational: Seeks peace over property. • Faith-oriented: Builds altars before building houses. • Visionary: Looks beyond present scarcity to future inheritance. Character Study: Lot • Pragmatic: Chooses visible prosperity. • Short-sighted: Underestimates moral environment. • Mixed legacy: Rescued by God’s mercy yet suffers loss of home and wife (Genesis 19:26). Lessons for Today • Wealth tests unity; openhanded generosity prevents division. • Vision shaped by God’s promises outlasts short-term gain. • Worship anchors faith during transitions. • Physical abundance without spiritual discernment invites trouble. New Testament Connections • Matthew 5:9—“Blessed are the peacemakers”—mirrors Abram’s initiative. • Galatians 3:29 identifies believers as Abram’s heirs, inheriting the promise of blessing and a future homeland (Revelation 21:1-3). • Hebrews 11:9-10 commends Abram for living in tents “looking forward to the city with foundations,” reflecting chapter 13’s pilgrimage heart. Archaeological Footnote: Sodom and the Kikkar Tall el-Hammam and Bab edh-Dhra are two candidates for biblical Sodom. Excavations reveal sudden destruction layers around the Middle Bronze Age, with evidence of intense heat, matching the biblical narrative that unfolds after Genesis 13. Conclusion Genesis 13 paints a vivid picture of faith walking through everyday choices—grazing rights, family strife, land boundaries—and shows how God weaves eternal promises into ordinary life. Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. This verse echoes Abram's peacemaking spirit. Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. Abram's trust in God is a model for us. Hebrews 11:8-10 Highlights Abram's faith and obedience, reminding us of the eternal city God has prepared for those who trust Him. Teaching Points Abram's Wealth and Return to Bethel Genesis 13:2-4 describes Abram as very wealthy in livestock, silver, and gold. Despite his wealth, Abram returns to Bethel, where he had previously built an altar, demonstrating his commitment to worship and gratitude to God. Conflict Arises The land could not support both Abram and Lot's possessions, leading to strife between their herdsmen (Genesis 13:6-7). This conflict sets the stage for a crucial decision. Abram's Generosity and Humility In Genesis 13:8-9, Abram offers Lot the first choice of land, saying, Please let there be no contention between you and me... Is not the whole land before you? Abram's willingness to let Lot choose first reflects his humility and desire for peace. Lot's Choice Lot chooses the fertile plains of the Jordan Valley, near Sodom, which is described as wicked, sinning greatly against the LORD (Genesis 13:10-13). Lot's decision is based on immediate benefits rather than spiritual considerations. God's Promise to Abram After Lot departs, God reaffirms His promise to Abram, saying, Look around from where you are... All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever (Genesis 13:14-17). This promise underscores God's faithfulness and the blessings of obedience. Practical Applications Seek Peace Like Abram, prioritize peace and reconciliation in conflicts, even if it means making personal sacrifices. Trust in God's Provision Abram's faith in God's promises allowed him to be generous and selfless. Trust that God will provide for your needs when you act in faith. Consider Long-term Consequences Lot's choice was based on immediate gain, leading to future troubles. Make decisions with an eternal perspective, considering spiritual implications. Worship and Gratitude Regularly return to places of worship and gratitude, as Abram did, to maintain a strong relationship with God. People 1. Abram Abram is the central figure in Genesis 13. He is a patriarch and a man of faith, who has been called by God to leave his homeland and journey to Canaan. In this chapter, Abram and his family return to the Negev and then to Bethel, where he calls on the name of the LORD. The Hebrew root of his name, אַבְרָם (Avram), means "exalted father." 2. Lot Lot is Abram's nephew, who travels with him. The chapter describes the growing tension between the herdsmen of Abram and Lot due to the abundance of their possessions, leading to their separation. Lot chooses to settle in the well-watered plains of the Jordan, near Sodom. The Hebrew root of his name, לוֹט (Lot), means "veil" or "covering." Places 1. Negev The Negev is a desert region in the southern part of ancient Israel. In Genesis 13:1, Abram travels from Egypt to the Negev. The Hebrew word for Negev (נֶגֶב) can mean "south" or "dry," reflecting the arid nature of the region. 2. Bethel Bethel is a significant location in the biblical narrative, situated north of Jerusalem. In Genesis 13:3, Abram returns to Bethel, to the place where he had previously built an altar. The name Bethel (בֵּית־אֵל) means "House of God" in Hebrew. 3. Ai Ai is mentioned in Genesis 13:3 as being east of Bethel. It is another ancient city, and its name (הָעַי) means "heap of ruins" in Hebrew. The proximity of Bethel and Ai is significant in Abram's journey. 4. Canaan Canaan is the land promised to Abram and his descendants. In Genesis 13:12, it is noted that Abram settled in the land of Canaan. The name Canaan (כְּנַעַן) refers to the region that encompasses modern-day Israel and surrounding areas. 5. Sodom Sodom is one of the cities of the plain where Lot chooses to settle, as mentioned in Genesis 13:12. The city is infamous for its later destruction due to wickedness. The Hebrew name Sodom (סְדוֹם) is often associated with burning or scorched. 6. Jordan Valley The Jordan Valley is described in Genesis 13:10 as being well-watered, like the garden of the LORD. It is the area Lot chooses for himself. The valley is part of the larger Jordan Rift Valley, a significant geographical feature in the region. Events 1. Abram's Journey from Egypt Abram, along with his wife and all he had, traveled from Egypt to the Negev. This journey marks a return to the land God had promised him, highlighting Abram's obedience and faith. The Hebrew root for "Negev" (נֶגֶב) refers to the dry, southern region of Canaan. 2. Abram's Wealth Abram was described as very wealthy in livestock, silver, and gold. This wealth signifies God's blessing upon Abram, fulfilling part of the promise to make him a great nation. 3. Return to Bethel Abram returned to the place between Bethel and Ai, where he had previously built an altar. This act of returning to a place of worship underscores Abram's continued devotion to God. 4. Conflict Between Abram and Lot's Herdsmen A dispute arose between the herdsmen of Abram and Lot due to the land not being able to support both of their large flocks and herds. This conflict necessitated a decision to separate, reflecting the practical challenges of wealth and prosperity. 5. Abram's Proposal for Separation Abram proposed to Lot that they separate to avoid conflict, offering Lot the choice of land. This proposal demonstrates Abram's humility and generosity, as he allows Lot to choose first. 6. Lot's Choice of the Jordan Valley Lot chose the well-watered Jordan Valley, which was like the garden of the LORD. This choice, based on immediate appearance and prosperity, foreshadows future challenges for Lot. 7. Abram Settles in Canaan After Lot's departure, Abram settled in the land of Canaan. This settlement aligns with God's promise to give Abram's descendants the land, emphasizing the theme of divine providence. 8. God's Promise to Abram The LORD reiterated His promise to Abram, stating that all the land he could see would be given to him and his offspring forever. This promise is central to the Abrahamic covenant, highlighting the eternal nature of God's commitment. 9. Abram Builds an Altar at Hebron Abram moved his tent and settled near the great trees of Mamre at Hebron, where he built an altar to the LORD. This act of worship signifies Abram's continued faith and dedication to God, establishing Hebron as a significant location in biblical history. Lessons from Genesis 13 1. The Importance of Peaceful Resolution In Genesis 13, we see a conflict arise between Abram's and Lot's herdsmen due to limited resources. Instead of allowing strife to fester, Abram takes the initiative to resolve the issue peacefully. He says, "Please let there be no contention between you and me, or between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are brothers" (Genesis 13:8). This teaches us the value of seeking peace and unity, especially among family and fellow believers. When faced with conflict, prioritize harmony and seek solutions that honor God and maintain relationships. 2. Generosity Over Greed Abram's offer to Lot to choose the land he preferred demonstrates a heart of generosity. "Is not the whole land before you? Please separate 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 13:9). Abram's willingness to let Lot choose first shows that he trusted God to provide for him, regardless of the circumstances. This act of selflessness reminds us to prioritize generosity over greed, trusting that God will meet our needs. 3. The Consequences of Short-Sighted Choices Lot chose the fertile plains of the Jordan Valley, which appeared to be the best option at the time. However, this decision led him near the wicked city of Sodom. "Lot chose for himself the whole plain of the Jordan and set out toward the east. And they separated" (Genesis 13:11). This choice serves as a cautionary tale about making decisions based solely on immediate benefits without considering long-term spiritual consequences. Always seek God's wisdom in your choices. 4. Trusting in God's Promises After Lot departed, God reaffirmed His promise to Abram, saying, "Look around from where you are, to the north and south, to the east and west. All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever" (Genesis 13:14-15). Abram's faith in God's promises, despite not seeing immediate fulfillment, encourages us to trust in God's timing and faithfulness. His promises are sure, and He will fulfill them in His perfect time. 5. The Blessing of Obedience Abram's journey in Genesis 13 is marked by obedience to God's call. He moved his tents and settled near the great trees of Mamre at Hebron, where he built an altar to the Lord (Genesis 13:18). This act of worship and obedience brought Abram into a deeper relationship with God. Obedience to God's direction leads to blessings and a closer walk with Him. Let your life be a testament to the joy and peace found in following God's will. 6. The Power of Humility Abram's humility in allowing Lot to choose first is a powerful example of putting others before oneself. This humility is not weakness but strength, as it reflects a heart aligned with God's character. "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves" (Philippians 2:3). Embrace humility in your interactions, knowing that God exalts the humble. 7. The Significance of Worship Throughout Genesis 13, Abram consistently builds altars to the Lord, signifying his commitment to worship and honor God. "So Abram moved his tents and went to live near the great trees of Mamre at Hebron, where he built an altar to the Lord" (Genesis 13:18). Worship is central to our relationship with God, reminding us of His greatness and our dependence on Him. Make worship a regular part of your life, drawing strength and guidance from the Lord. 8. The Impact of Godly Leadership Abram's leadership is marked by wisdom, peace, and faith. His actions set a godly example for Lot and those around him. As believers, we are called to lead by example, reflecting Christ in our actions and decisions. "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16). Strive to be a leader who inspires others to follow God. 9. The Value of Family Unity Despite the separation, Abram and Lot's relationship remained intact, highlighting the importance of family unity. "Please let there be no contention between you and me, or between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are brothers" (Genesis 13:8). Family is a gift from God, and maintaining unity and love within it is crucial. Work towards reconciliation and understanding, valuing the bonds God has given you. 10. The Assurance of God's Presence Even as Abram and Lot parted ways, God's presence remained with Abram, guiding and blessing him. "The Lord said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, 'Look around from where you are...'" (Genesis 13:14). This assurance of God's presence is a comfort to us all. No matter where life takes us, we can trust that God is with us, guiding our steps and fulfilling His promises. Rest in the knowledge that you are never alone. Topics 1. Abram and Lot's Wealth and Separation Genesis 13 begins by describing the wealth of Abram and Lot as they return from Egypt. Their possessions are so great that "the land could not support them while they stayed together" (Genesis 13:6). The Hebrew word for "wealth" (רְכוּשׁ, rekush) emphasizes their substantial material possessions, which leads to tension between their herdsmen. 2. Conflict Between Herdsmen The narrative highlights a conflict between the herdsmen of Abram and Lot, which is described as a "quarrel" (רִיב, riv) in Hebrew. This conflict necessitates a resolution to maintain peace, as "the Canaanites and Perizzites were also living in the land at that time" (Genesis 13:7). 3. Abram's Proposal for Separation Abram, seeking to resolve the conflict, proposes a separation to Lot, saying, "Please let there be no strife between you and me" (Genesis 13:8). The Hebrew word for "strife" (מַצָּה, matzah) indicates a desire to avoid ongoing disputes. Abram offers Lot the choice of land, demonstrating humility and generosity. 4. Lot's Choice of the Jordan Valley Lot chooses the fertile Jordan Valley, described as "well-watered everywhere" (Genesis 13:10), reminiscent of "the garden of the LORD" and "the land of Egypt." The Hebrew term for "well-watered" (מַשְׁקֶה, mashqeh) underscores the region's agricultural potential, influencing Lot's decision. 5. Abram's Settlement in Canaan After Lot's departure, Abram settles in the land of Canaan. The text notes that "the men of Sodom were wicked, sinning greatly against the LORD" (Genesis 13:13), foreshadowing future events. Abram's choice reflects his faith and trust in God's promise, despite the apparent disadvantage. 6. God's Promise to Abram God reaffirms His promise to Abram, instructing him to "look from the place where you are" (Genesis 13:14) and promising all the land he sees to his descendants forever. The Hebrew word for "descendants" (זֶרַע, zera) emphasizes the future generations that will inherit the land. 7. Abram's Altar at Hebron The chapter concludes with Abram moving his tent and settling near the oaks of Mamre in Hebron, where he builds an altar to the LORD (Genesis 13:18). This act of worship signifies Abram's continued faith and dedication to God, marking the land as a place of divine encounter. Themes 1. Divine Guidance and Obedience Abram's journey is marked by his obedience to God's call. Genesis 13:1-4 describes Abram's return to Bethel, where he had previously built an altar. This act of returning to a place of worship signifies his continued reliance on divine guidance. The Hebrew root for "altar" (מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbeach) emphasizes a place of sacrifice and worship, highlighting Abram's devotion. 2. Wealth and Prosperity The chapter notes the significant wealth of Abram and Lot, stating, "Now Abram was very rich in livestock, silver, and gold" (Genesis 13:2). This theme reflects God's blessing and provision, as wealth in the ancient context often indicated divine favor. 3. Conflict and Resolution A conflict arises between the herdsmen of Abram and Lot due to the land's inability to support both their flocks. Genesis 13:7 states, "And there was strife between the herdsmen of Abram’s livestock and the herdsmen of Lot’s livestock." The Hebrew word for "strife" (רִיב, riv) suggests a legal dispute or contention, emphasizing the need for resolution. 4. Generosity and Selflessness Abram's proposal to Lot to separate and choose the land he desires first (Genesis 13:8-9) demonstrates his generosity and selflessness. Abram says, "Please let there be no strife between you and me... Is not the whole land before you?" This act of giving Lot the first choice reflects a spirit of humility and peace-making. 5. Divine Promise and Covenant After Lot's departure, God reaffirms His promise to Abram, saying, "Lift up your eyes from where you are and look to the north and south and east and west" (Genesis 13:14). The promise of land and descendants is reiterated, underscoring the covenant relationship between God and Abram. The Hebrew word for "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit) is foundational in understanding God's enduring promises. 6. Faith and Vision Abram's faith is highlighted as he trusts in God's promise despite not yet possessing the land. Genesis 13:17 states, "Arise, walk through the length and breadth of the land, for I will give it to you." This theme emphasizes the importance of faith and vision in the believer's journey. 7. Worship and Thanksgiving The chapter concludes with Abram building an altar to the Lord in Hebron (Genesis 13:18). This act of worship signifies gratitude and acknowledgment of God's presence and promises. The Hebrew root for "worship" (שָׁחָה, shachah) implies bowing down, reflecting reverence and submission to God. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom and discernment in making decisions that honor God. Ask for a heart of humility and generosity, like Abram's, in dealing with conflicts. Seek God's guidance to prioritize spiritual growth over material gain. Thank God for His faithfulness and the promises He has given us through His Word. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Genesis 13:2, how plausible is it that Abram’s wealth in livestock, silver, and gold could be historically or archaeologically confirmed? 2. According to Genesis 13:5–6, was there really enough pastureland in Canaan to support both Abram and Lot’s immense flocks, considering the region’s known agricultural limits? 3. Genesis 13:7 mentions Canaanites and Perizzites dwelling in the land; is there archaeological evidence correlating these tribes with Abram’s time period? 4. How historically accurate is the description of the Jordan Valley in Genesis 13:10 as “well watered everywhere…like the garden of the Lord,” given modern geological data? 5. In Genesis 13:14–17, God promises Abram that his descendants will inherit the land “forever”; how can this be reconciled with later biblical or historical events suggesting otherwise? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Abram's wealth tell us about God's provision and blessings? 2. How does the conflict between Abram and Lot reflect on the potential challenges of wealth and possessions? 3. In what way does Abram demonstrate conflict resolution skills? 4. What does Abram's decision to give Lot the first choice reveal about his character? 5. How does Lot's choice of land reveal his values and priorities? 6. What consequences can we observe from Lot's decision to settle near Sodom? 7. How does God's renewed promise to Abram encourage trust in His provision? 8. What does God's promise of countless offspring to Abram signify? 9. How does Abram's immediate response to God's promise reveal his faith and obedience? 10. How can we apply the lessons from Abram's handling of the conflict with Lot in our own relationships? 11. What would you have done differently if you were in Lot's place? 12. How can we discern between a seemingly attractive choice and a spiritually sound one, as seen in Lot's decision? 13. In what ways do we see God's faithfulness in Abram's journey, and how can this inspire us? 14. How does Abram's story demonstrate the importance of peacemaking? 15. How might we respond when faced with potential discord within our family or community? 16. How does the narrative encourage us to trust God's plan and provision even when things seem uncertain? 17. How can we ensure that our choices align with God's will, as demonstrated in Abram's life? 18. What does the setting up of altars by Abram signify in his relationship with God? 19. How does the narrative inspire us to continuously worship God amidst our life circumstances? 20. In what ways can we practically apply the principles of faith, obedience, and worship as demonstrated by Abram in our current life context? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions