Introduction:
Abram, later known as Abraham, is a central figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in the Book of Genesis. His encounters with God and other significant events in his life are foundational to the understanding of faith and covenant in the Judeo-Christian tradition. This entry focuses on the key encounters Abram had, which shaped his journey and the unfolding of God's promises.

Call of Abram:
Abram's first significant encounter with God occurs in Genesis 12:1-3, where God calls him to leave his country, his people, and his father's household to go to a land that God would show him. This call comes with a promise: "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing" (Genesis 12:2). This encounter marks the beginning of Abram's journey of faith and the establishment of a covenant relationship with God.

Abram in Egypt:
In Genesis 12:10-20, Abram encounters a famine in the land and decides to go down to Egypt. Fearing for his life because of Sarai's beauty, he instructs her to say she is his sister. This encounter with Pharaoh leads to complications, but God intervenes, and Abram leaves Egypt with increased wealth. This episode highlights the challenges and moral complexities Abram faces on his journey.

The Covenant with Abram:
In Genesis 15, God makes a formal covenant with Abram. In a vision, God reassures Abram of His promise, saying, "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward" (Genesis 15:1). Abram expresses concern about having no heir, and God promises him descendants as numerous as the stars. This encounter is sealed with a covenant ceremony, where God symbolically passes between the pieces of sacrificed animals, affirming His commitment to Abram.

Hagar and Ishmael:
Abram's encounter with Hagar, Sarai's maidservant, in Genesis 16, results in the birth of Ishmael. Sarai, unable to bear children, gives Hagar to Abram as a wife. This decision leads to tension and conflict, but God hears Hagar's distress and promises that Ishmael will also become a great nation. This episode illustrates the complexities of human decisions within the divine plan.

The Covenant of Circumcision:
In Genesis 17, God reaffirms His covenant with Abram, changing his name to Abraham, meaning "father of many nations." God introduces the sign of circumcision as a perpetual covenant between Him and Abraham's descendants. God also changes Sarai's name to Sarah and promises that she will bear a son, Isaac. This encounter emphasizes the everlasting nature of God's covenant and the importance of obedience.

Theophany at Mamre:
In Genesis 18, Abraham encounters three visitors at the oaks of Mamre. Recognizing them as divine messengers, he offers hospitality. During this encounter, God reiterates the promise of a son through Sarah. The visitors also reveal the impending judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah, leading to Abraham's intercession for the cities. This encounter highlights Abraham's role as a mediator and his deepening relationship with God.

Sacrifice of Isaac:
One of the most profound encounters occurs in Genesis 22, where God tests Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac. Abraham's obedience and faith are demonstrated as he prepares to offer Isaac, but God intervenes, providing a ram as a substitute. This encounter underscores themes of faith, obedience, and God's provision, and it foreshadows the concept of substitutionary sacrifice.

Conclusion:
Abram's encounters with God and others throughout his life are pivotal in the biblical narrative, illustrating the development of faith, the complexities of human choices, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. These encounters are foundational to understanding the covenant relationship between God and His people.