Genesis 13:4

Unto the place of the altar, which he had made there at the first: and there Abram called on the name of the LORD.

Unto the place {H4725} of the altar {H4196}, which he had made {H6213} there at the first {H7223}: and there Abram {H87} called {H7121} on the name {H8034} of the LORD {H3068}.

where he had first built the altar; and there Avram called on the name of ADONAI.

to the site where he had built the altar. And there Abram called on the name of the LORD.

unto the place of the altar, which he had made there at the first: and there Abram called on the name of Jehovah.

Commentary

Genesis 13:4 describes Abram's return to a significant spiritual landmark after his sojourn in Egypt, emphasizing his unwavering devotion to God.

Context

Following a famine that led him and his household to Egypt (Genesis 12:10), Abram, now greatly enriched, returns to the land of Canaan. This verse specifically highlights his journey back to a familiar and sacred place: "Unto the place of the altar, which he had made there at the first." This refers to the altar Abram built near Bethel and Ai shortly after God's initial call and promise to him (Genesis 12:8). His return to this specific spot underscores his spiritual priorities amidst his newfound wealth and the impending separation from Lot.

Key Themes

  • Return to Spiritual Foundations: Abram's first action upon returning to Canaan is to revisit his place of initial worship. This demonstrates the importance of remembering and returning to one's initial acts of faith and commitment, especially after periods of trial or worldly influence.
  • Priority of Worship and Prayer: Despite his vast possessions and the challenges of managing a large household, Abram prioritizes his relationship with the LORD. The act of "calling on the name of the LORD" signifies deep devotion, prayer, and seeking God's guidance.
  • Faithfulness and Consistency: Abram's consistent practice of building altars and calling on God's name throughout his journeys (e.g., Genesis 12:7) reveals a steadfast faith and a pattern of living centered on God.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "called on the name of the LORD" is a significant idiom in the Old Testament. In Hebrew, it is qara' b'shem YHWH (קרא בשם Χ™Χ”Χ•Χ”). This doesn't merely mean uttering God's name; it implies a profound act of worship, prayer, and invoking God's character and presence. It suggests a public declaration of allegiance, an open acknowledgment of God's sovereignty, and a seeking of His divine intervention and blessing. The name "LORD" (YHWH) refers to God's personal, covenantal name, emphasizing His eternal and self-existent nature.

Practical Application

Abram's example in Genesis 13:4 offers powerful lessons for believers today:

  • Revisit Your "Altars": Just as Abram returned to his place of initial worship, we are called to regularly revisit the foundational truths and experiences of our faith. This might involve returning to consistent Bible study, prayer, or fellowship.
  • Prioritize God Amidst Prosperity and Problems: Abram's wealth didn't distract him from his spiritual duties. Similarly, whether we face abundance or adversity, maintaining a vibrant prayer life and prioritizing worship should remain central to our lives.
  • Cultivate a Habit of Worship: Abram's life was marked by consistent acts of worship. Developing regular spiritual disciplines helps us maintain a strong and vibrant relationship with God, allowing us to "call on the name of the LORD" in all circumstances, knowing He hears and responds (Psalm 116:2).
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Jeremiah 29:12 (6 votes)

    Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.

  • Genesis 12:7 (6 votes)

    And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the LORD, who appeared unto him.

  • Genesis 12:8 (6 votes)

    And he removed from thence unto a mountain on the east of Bethel, and pitched his tent, [having] Bethel on the west, and Hai on the east: and there he builded an altar unto the LORD, and called upon the name of the LORD.

  • Isaiah 58:9 (5 votes)

    Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I [am]. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity;

  • Ephesians 6:18 (5 votes)

    Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

  • Ephesians 6:19 (5 votes)

    ΒΆ And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

  • Psalms 65:1 (4 votes)

    ΒΆ To the chief Musician, A Psalm [and] Song of David. Praise waiteth for thee, O God, in Sion: and unto thee shall the vow be performed.