Biblical Context:
The account of Abram and Sarai in Egypt is found in the Book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 12:10-20. This narrative occurs shortly after God calls Abram to leave his homeland and promises to make him a great nation (Genesis 12:1-3). Abram, later known as Abraham, is a central figure in the biblical narrative, and his journey to Egypt marks a significant episode in his life.

Famine and Journey to Egypt:
The account begins with a severe famine in the land of Canaan, prompting Abram to seek refuge in Egypt. Genesis 12:10 states, "Now there was a famine in the land, so Abram went down to Egypt to live there for a while, because the famine was severe." This decision to go to Egypt reflects a common practice in the ancient Near East, where Egypt, with its Nile River, often served as a refuge during times of drought and famine.

Abram's Fear and Deception:
As Abram approaches Egypt, he becomes concerned about the beauty of his wife, Sarai. Fearing that the Egyptians might kill him to take Sarai, he instructs her to say she is his sister. Genesis 12:11-13 records Abram's words: "As he was about to enter Egypt, he said to his wife Sarai, 'Look, I know that you are a beautiful woman, and when the Egyptians see you, they will say, "This is his wife." Then they will kill me but will let you live. Please say you are my sister, so that I will be treated well for your sake and my life will be spared because of you.'"

Sarai Taken into Pharaoh's Palace:
Upon their arrival in Egypt, the Egyptians indeed notice Sarai's beauty, and she is taken into Pharaoh's palace. Genesis 12:14-15 narrates, "When Abram entered Egypt, the Egyptians saw that the woman was very beautiful. When Pharaoh’s officials saw her, they praised her to Pharaoh, and she was taken into his palace." As a result, Abram is treated well, receiving sheep, cattle, donkeys, servants, and camels.

Divine Intervention and Pharaoh's Reaction:
However, the Lord intervenes by afflicting Pharaoh and his household with severe plagues because of Sarai. Genesis 12:17 states, "But the LORD afflicted Pharaoh and his household with severe plagues because of Abram’s wife Sarai." Realizing the cause of his troubles, Pharaoh confronts Abram and questions his deception. Genesis 12:18-19 records Pharaoh's words: "So Pharaoh summoned Abram and asked, 'What have you done to me? Why didn’t you tell me she was your wife? Why did you say, "She is my sister," so that I took her as my wife? Now then, here is your wife. Take her and go!'"

Departure from Egypt:
Pharaoh orders Abram to leave Egypt with his wife and all his possessions. Genesis 12:20 concludes the episode: "Then Pharaoh gave his men orders concerning Abram, and they sent him away with his wife and all his possessions." Abram's departure from Egypt marks the end of this particular episode, and he returns to the Negev, continuing his journey as a sojourner in the land promised to him by God.

Theological and Moral Implications:
The account of Abram and Sarai in Egypt raises several theological and moral questions. It highlights themes of fear, faith, and divine protection. Abram's decision to deceive Pharaoh reflects a moment of human weakness and fear, contrasting with the divine promise and protection that God provides. Despite Abram's actions, God's intervention underscores His faithfulness to His covenant promises. This episode serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the complexities of human faith and morality.