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." Is not the whole land before you?This phrase reflects the vastness and abundance of the land that God had promised to Abram. The Hebrew word for "land" is "erets," which can mean earth, land, or territory. In the context of Genesis, it signifies the Promised Land, a central theme in the Abrahamic covenant. Historically, this land was known for its fertility and strategic location, making it a desirable possession. Abram's question underscores the generosity and faith he exhibits, trusting in God's provision and promises. Let us part company
The Hebrew root for "part" is "parad," which means to separate or divide. This decision to separate was not out of animosity but a practical solution to avoid strife between Abram's and Lot's herdsmen. It reflects a principle of peace and reconciliation, prioritizing relationships over material possessions. Abram's willingness to part ways amicably demonstrates his maturity and wisdom, setting a precedent for conflict resolution. If you go to the left, I will go to the right; if you go to the right, I will go to the left
This phrase highlights Abram's magnanimity and humility. By offering Lot the first choice, Abram shows a selfless attitude, trusting in God's sovereignty over his future. The directional terms "left" and "right" are not just geographical but symbolize choices and paths in life. Abram's faith is evident as he relinquishes control, confident that God's promise will be fulfilled regardless of the immediate circumstances. This act of faith and trust in divine providence is a powerful lesson in prioritizing spiritual over temporal gains. Persons / Places / Events 1. Abram (Abraham)The central figure in this passage, Abram is a man of faith and obedience to God. He is known for his willingness to trust God’s promises and his role as the patriarch of the Israelite nation. 2. LotAbram’s nephew, who traveled with him from Ur to Canaan. Lot’s choice of land in this passage sets the stage for future events in his life. 3. CanaanThe land promised by God to Abram and his descendants. It is the setting for this account and a significant location in biblical history. 4. Bethel and AiThe region where Abram and Lot were dwelling before their separation. Bethel is a place of worship and significance in Abram’s journey. 5. The SeparationThe event where Abram and Lot part ways due to the inability of the land to support both their herds and households. This separation is pivotal in the unfolding of God’s plan for Abram. Teaching Points Faith and Trust in God’s ProvisionAbram’s willingness to let Lot choose first demonstrates his trust in God’s provision. Believers are encouraged to trust God’s plans and timing, even when it requires selflessness. The Importance of Peace and UnityAbram’s proposal to separate peacefully with Lot highlights the value of maintaining peace and unity within families and communities. Christians are called to be peacemakers. Wise Decision-MakingLot’s choice based on immediate benefits serves as a cautionary tale about making decisions without considering long-term spiritual consequences. Believers should seek God’s wisdom in their choices. God’s Sovereignty and FaithfulnessDespite the separation, God’s promises to Abram remain intact. This reassures believers of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness, regardless of circumstances. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Abram’s approach to resolving the conflict with Lot reflect his faith in God’s promises? 2. In what ways can we apply Abram’s example of prioritizing peace and unity in our own relationships? 3. What lessons can we learn from Lot’s decision-making process, and how can we apply these lessons to our own choices? 4. How does the concept of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness in Abram’s life encourage us in our personal faith journeys? 5. How can we ensure that our decisions align with God’s will, and what role does prayer play in this process? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 12This chapter provides context for Abram’s journey to Canaan and God’s promises to him, which are foundational to understanding Abram’s actions in Genesis 13. Genesis 19The consequences of Lot’s choice to settle near Sodom are explored in this chapter, highlighting the importance of wise decision-making. Hebrews 11This chapter in the New Testament commends Abram’s faith, providing a broader theological context for his actions and decisions. Proverbs 3:5-6This passage emphasizes trusting in the Lord rather than relying on one’s own understanding, a principle exemplified by Abram’s faith. | A Peaceable Spirit | F. Hastings. | Genesis 13:9 | | Abraham's Disinterestedness | W. M. Taylor, D. D. | Genesis 13:9 | | Abram's Generosity | E. Stock. | Genesis 13:9 | | Abram's Proposal to Lot | Homilist | Genesis 13:9 | | Magnanimity | Old Testament Anecdotes | Genesis 13:9 | | Magnanimity of Abraham | J. C. Gray. | Genesis 13:9 | | Of Such as have Been Great Lovers and Promoters of Peace | | Genesis 13:9 | | Strife Among Brethren | Spurgeon, Charles Haddon | Genesis 13:9 | | The Excellence of a Peaceable Disposition | Essex Remembrancer | Genesis 13:9 | | The Folly of Strife | | Genesis 13:9 | | The Goodly Land in Prospect | H. Dingley. | Genesis 13:9 | | The Separation Between Abram and Lot | R.A. Redford | Genesis 13:1-13 | | A Quarrel in the Kitchen | J. Parker, D. D. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Abram and Lot | W. Adamson., W. Adamson. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Abram and Lot | D. C. Hughes, M. A. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Avoid Quarrels | | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Avoiding a Quarrel | J. Spencer. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Beginning the Peace | | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Christian Contention | J. Spencer. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Contending About Trifles | | Genesis 13:5-9 | | How to Prevent Quarrels | C. Colton. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Lesson Links | W. Adamson. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Lessons | G. Hughes, B. D. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Lessons | G. Hughes, B. D. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Lot's Separation from Abram | Charles Jordan, M. A., LL. B. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Quarrels About Money | M. Dods, D. D. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Quarrelsome Servants | J. C. Gray. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Religion Without the Blessed Life | M. G. Pearse. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Separated from Lot | F. B. Meyer, B. A. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Separation Rather than Strife | Homilist | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Strife Between Brethren | T. H. Leale. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Strife Foolish Before the World | J. Spencer. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | The Separation Between Abram and Lot | F. W. Robertson, M. A. | Genesis 13:5-9 | | Untimely Contention | W. Adamson. | Genesis 13:5-9 |
People Abram, Canaanites, Lot, Mamre, Perizzites, ZoarPlaces Ai, Bethel, Betonim, Canaan, Egypt, Gomorrah, Hebron, Jordan River, Negeb, Sodom, ZoarTopics Company, Depart, I'll, Isn't, Parted, Please, Separate, Thyself, WiltDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 13:1-12 5076 Abraham, life of Genesis 13:4-12 5077 Abraham, character Genesis 13:5-9 5834 disagreement Genesis 13:8-9 5783 agreement
8458 peacemakers Genesis 13:8-11 8410 decision-making, examples Library July 21. "Look from the Place Where Thou Art" (Gen. xiii. 14).
"Look from the place where thou art" (Gen. xiii. 14). Let us now see the blessedness of faith. Our own littleness and nothingness sometimes becomes bondage. We are so small in our own eyes we dare not claim God's mighty promises. We say: "If I could be sure I was in God's way I could trust." This is all wrong. Self-consciousness is a great barrier to faith. Get your eyes on Him and Him alone; not on your faith, but on the Author of your faith; not a half look, but a steadfast, prolonged look, with …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth August 11. "All the Land which Thou Seest" (Gen. xiii. 15).
"All the land which thou seest" (Gen. xiii. 15). The actual provisions of His grace come from the inner vision. He who puts the instinct in the bosom of yonder bird to cross the continent in search of summer sunshine in yonder Southern clime is too good to deceive it, and just as surely as He has put the instinct in its breast, so has He also put the balmy breezes and the vernal sunshine yonder to meet it when it arrives. He who gave to Abraham the vision of the Land of Promise, also said in infinite …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth The Importance of a Choice
'And Abram went up out of Egypt, he, and his wife, and all that he had, and Lot with him, into the south. And Abram was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold. And he went on his journeys from the south even to Beth-el, unto the place where his tent had been at the beginning, between Beth-el and Hal; Unto the place of the altar, which he had made there at the first: and there Abram called on the name of the Lord. And Lot also, which went with Abram, had flocks, and herds, and tents. And the …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Land of Promise
"All the Land which thou seest, to thee will I give it."--Gen. xiii. 15. Gertrude of Hellfde, 1330. tr., Emma Frances Bevan, 1899 It was as if upon His breast He laid His piercèd hand, And said "To thee, beloved and blest, I give this goodly land." O Land of fountains and of deeps, Of God's exhaustless store-- O blessed Land, where he who reaps Shall never hunger more-- O summer Land, for ever fair With God's unfading flowers; O Land, where spices fill the air, And songs the golden towers-- …
Frances Bevan—Hymns of Ter Steegen and Others (Second Series) The Wilderness: Temptation. Matthew 4:1-11. Mark 1:12, 13. Luke 4:1-13.
The University of Arabia: Jesus' naturalness--the Spirit's presence--intensity, Luke 2:45-51.--a true perspective--- the temptation's path--sin's path--John's grouping, 1 John 2:16.--the Spirit's plan--why--the devil's weakness--the Spirit's leading--a wilderness for every God-used man, Moses, Elijah, Paul. Earth's Ugliest, Deepest Scar: Jesus the only one led up to be tempted--the wilderness--its history, Genesis 13:10-13. 18:16-19:38.--Jesus really tempted--no wrong here in inner response--every …
S. D. Gordon—Quiet Talks about Jesus Notes on the Third Century
Page 161. Line 1. He must be born again, &c. This is a compound citation from John iii. 3, and Mark x. 15, in the order named. Page 182. Line 17. For all things should work together, &c. See Romans viii. 28. Page 184. Lines 10-11. Being Satan is able, &c. 2 Corinthians xi. 14. Page 184. Last line. Like a sparrow, &c. Psalm cii. Page 187. Line 1. Mechanisms. This word is, in the original MS., mechanicismes.' Page 187. Line 7. Like the King's daughter, &c. Psalm xlv. 14. Page 188. Med. 39. The best …
Thomas Traherne—Centuries of Meditations Discourse on the Good Shepherd.
(Jerusalem, December, a.d. 29.) ^D John X. 1-21. ^d 1 Verily, verily, I say to you [unto the parties whom he was addressing in the last section], He that entereth not by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. [In this section Jesus proceeds to contrast his own care for humanity with that manifested by the Pharisees, who had just cast out the beggar. Old Testament prophecies were full of declarations that false shepherds would arise to …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel The Old Testament Canon from Its Beginning to Its Close.
The first important part of the Old Testament put together as a whole was the Pentateuch, or rather, the five books of Moses and Joshua. This was preceded by smaller documents, which one or more redactors embodied in it. The earliest things committed to writing were probably the ten words proceeding from Moses himself, afterwards enlarged into the ten commandments which exist at present in two recensions (Exod. xx., Deut. v.) It is true that we have the oldest form of the decalogue from the Jehovist …
Samuel Davidson—The Canon of the Bible Genesis
The Old Testament opens very impressively. In measured and dignified language it introduces the story of Israel's origin and settlement upon the land of Canaan (Gen.--Josh.) by the story of creation, i.-ii. 4a, and thus suggests, at the very beginning, the far-reaching purpose and the world-wide significance of the people and religion of Israel. The narrative has not travelled far till it becomes apparent that its dominant interests are to be religious and moral; for, after a pictorial sketch of …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Genesis 13:9 NIVGenesis 13:9 NLTGenesis 13:9 ESVGenesis 13:9 NASBGenesis 13:9 KJV
Genesis 13:9 Commentaries
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