Genesis 22:10

Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son.

Study Bible

Then Abraham
The phrase "Then Abraham" marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, emphasizing Abraham's immediate response to God's command. The Hebrew name "Abraham" means "father of many," reflecting his role as the patriarch of the Israelite nation. This moment is a test of faith, highlighting Abraham's obedience and trust in God, even when faced with the unimaginable task of sacrificing his promised son.

reached out his hand
The act of reaching out his hand signifies a deliberate and conscious decision. In Hebrew, the hand often symbolizes power and action. Abraham's action here is not impulsive but a measured response to God's directive. It underscores the gravity of the situation and Abraham's willingness to follow through with God's command, demonstrating his unwavering faith.

and took the knife
The knife is a critical element in this narrative, representing the instrument of sacrifice. In the ancient Near Eastern context, knives were used in religious rituals and sacrifices. Abraham taking the knife indicates his readiness to complete the sacrifice, a profound act of obedience and submission to God's will. This moment foreshadows the sacrificial system that would later be established in the Mosaic Law.

to slaughter
The word "to slaughter" is translated from the Hebrew word "shachat," which means to kill or sacrifice. This term is often used in the context of ritual sacrifices, highlighting the seriousness of the act Abraham is about to perform. It reflects the ultimate test of faith, as Abraham prepares to offer his beloved son as a sacrifice, trusting in God's promise and provision.

his son
The phrase "his son" personalizes the narrative, emphasizing the deep emotional and relational stakes involved. Isaac is not only Abraham's son but the child of promise through whom God had promised to establish a great nation. This moment underscores the depth of Abraham's faith, as he is willing to surrender his most cherished blessing back to God, trusting in His divine plan and purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
The patriarch of the Israelites, known for his faith and obedience to God. In this passage, he is tested by God to sacrifice his son Isaac.

2. Isaac
The promised son of Abraham and Sarah, through whom God promised to establish His covenant. Isaac is the intended sacrifice in this account.

3. Mount Moriah
The location where God instructed Abraham to offer Isaac as a burnt offering. It is significant in biblical history and is later associated with the site of Solomon's Temple.

4. The Angel of the LORD
Although not mentioned in verse 10, the Angel of the LORD intervenes in the subsequent verses, stopping Abraham from sacrificing Isaac.

5. The Test of Faith
This event is a profound test of Abraham's faith and obedience to God, demonstrating his willingness to surrender everything to God's will.

Teaching Points

Faith and Obedience
Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac demonstrates the depth of his faith and obedience. Believers are called to trust God even when His commands are difficult to understand.

God's Provision
The account foreshadows God's provision of a substitute sacrifice, pointing to Jesus Christ as the ultimate sacrifice for sin. Trust in God's provision is essential for believers.

Testing and Growth
Trials and tests of faith are opportunities for spiritual growth. Like Abraham, believers can emerge stronger in their faith when they trust God through difficult circumstances.

Surrender to God's Will
Abraham's readiness to give up his most precious possession challenges believers to consider what they might be holding back from God. True faith involves complete surrender to His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac challenge your understanding of faith and obedience in your own life?

2. In what ways can you see God's provision in your life, and how does this account encourage you to trust Him more fully?

3. Reflect on a time when your faith was tested. How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience?

4. How does the account of Abraham and Isaac point to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and what implications does this have for your faith?

5. What are some areas in your life where you need to surrender more fully to God's will, and how can you take steps to do so?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 11:17-19
This passage in the New Testament reflects on Abraham's faith, highlighting his belief that God could raise Isaac from the dead, which underscores the depth of his trust in God's promises.

James 2:21-23
James uses Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac as an example of faith being made complete by actions, emphasizing the importance of faith accompanied by works.

Romans 4:3
Paul references Abraham's faith being credited to him as righteousness, which is foundational to understanding the nature of faith and justification.