Genesis 13:7

KJV

And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram's cattle and the herdmen of Lot's cattle: and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land.

KJV (with Strong's)

And there was a strife {H7379} between the herdmen {H7462} of Abram's {H87} cattle {H4735} and the herdmen {H7462} of Lot's {H3876} cattle {H4735}: and the Canaanite {H3669} and the Perizzite {H6522} dwelled {H3427} then in the land {H776}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moreover, quarreling arose between Avram's and Lot's herdsmen. The Kena'ani and the P'rizi were then living in the land.

Berean Standard Bible

And there was discord between the herdsmen of Abram and the herdsmen of Lot. At that time the Canaanites and the Perizzites were also living in the land.

American Standard Version

And there was a strife between the herdsmen of Abram’s cattle and the herdsmen of Lot’s cattle: and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelt then in the land.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse records a significant point of tension between the burgeoning households of Abram and his nephew Lot. As their combined wealth in livestock grew immensely, the land proved insufficient to sustain their vast herds, leading to a practical and public conflict among their respective herdsmen over vital resources like grazing pastures and water. This internal family dispute was further complicated and underscored by the fact that they were dwelling amidst the indigenous Canaanite and Perizzite peoples, making their conduct a public spectacle and a potential blemish on their witness as followers of the one true God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the account of Abram and Lot's immense prosperity after returning from Egypt ([Genesis 13:1-2](/genesis/13-1-2 "Abram and Lot return from Egypt with great wealth")). Both men had acquired vast herds and flocks, along with silver and gold, making their combined possessions too great for the land to support them together. The preceding verses ([Genesis 13:5-6](/genesis/13-5-6 "Abram and Lot's great possessions cause conflict")) establish the problem: "the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together: for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together." This sets the stage for the "strife" mentioned in verse 7, which then directly precipitates Abram's gracious and wise proposal for separation in [Genesis 13:8-9](/genesis/13-8-9 "Abram's peacemaking offer to Lot"), demonstrating his priority of peace and his trust in God's provision.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, particularly among nomadic pastoralists like Abram and Lot, livestock represented primary wealth and sustenance. Access to sufficient grazing land and water sources was critical for survival and prosperity. Disputes over these finite resources were common and could easily escalate into serious conflicts, even tribal warfare. The mention of "the Canaanite and the Perizzite" highlights that Abram and Lot were not isolated but were sojourners in a land already inhabited by established peoples. These indigenous groups would have their own claims to resources and would be observing the conduct of these powerful newcomers, making the internal strife of Abram and Lot's households a public matter with implications for their reputation and testimony.
* **Key Themes:** [Genesis 13:7](/genesis/13-7 "Conflict over resources") contributes to several significant themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it illustrates the **challenges of prosperity**, showing that even blessings can bring practical difficulties that require wise management and spiritual discernment. Secondly, it introduces the theme of **conflict resolution and peacemaking**, setting the stage for Abram's exemplary display of humility and generosity in the following verses. Thirdly, the presence of the Canaanites and Perizzites emphasizes the theme of **witness and testimony**, highlighting that the conduct of God's people is observed by those outside the covenant, underscoring the importance of living in a manner that honors God, as seen throughout the narrative of Israel's journey in the promised land (e.g., [Deuteronomy 4:6-8](/deuteronomy/4-6-8 "Israel's wisdom and understanding before the nations")). Finally, it subtly reinforces the theme of **God's promise of the land**, even though it is currently occupied, setting up the subsequent reaffirmation of the covenant to Abram in [Genesis 13:14-17](/genesis/13-14-17 "God's reaffirmation of the land promise to Abram").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Strife (Hebrew, _rîyb'_):** From H7379, this word signifies a "contest (personal or legal)," a "chiding," "contention," or "suit." It implies more than a minor disagreement; it suggests a serious dispute, a quarrel that could potentially escalate into a legal or even violent confrontation. Its use here indicates the gravity of the situation between the herdsmen, demanding a decisive resolution.
* **Dwelled (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** From H3427, this primitive root means "to sit down," and by implication, "to dwell," "to remain," or "to settle." In this context, it emphasizes the established presence of the Canaanite and Perizzite peoples in the land. They were not merely passing through but were settled inhabitants, making the competition for resources a constant and unavoidable reality for Abram and Lot.
* **Canaanite (Hebrew, _Kᵉnaʻanîy'_ / Perizzite (Hebrew, _Pᵉrizzîy'_):** H3669 and H6522 respectively, these terms refer to specific indigenous tribes inhabiting the land of Canaan. The Canaanites were a broad group, often associated with trade, while the Perizzites were described as "inhabitants of the open country." Their explicit mention underscores the fact that Abram and Lot's internal conflict was not a private family affair but was unfolding in the public eye of the local, non-covenant peoples, adding a layer of scrutiny and urgency to the need for a peaceful resolution.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram's cattle and the herdmen of Lot's cattle":** This clause directly identifies the source and nature of the conflict. The "strife" (Hebrew: _rîyb_) was not between Abram and Lot themselves, but between their servants, specifically those responsible for managing their vast livestock. This indicates a practical problem arising from the immense size of their herds and the limited availability of grazing land and water. The conflict among the servants, however, directly impacted the masters and threatened the family's unity.
* **"and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land":** This critical second clause provides the immediate context and adds significant theological weight. It highlights that Abram and Lot were not living in an empty wilderness but were sojourners in a land already occupied by indigenous peoples. Their internal dispute was therefore occurring in the presence of unbelieving nations. This observation by the Canaanites and Perizzites raised the stakes, as the conduct of Abram's household, representing the people of God, was under public scrutiny. Their disunity could potentially discredit their witness to the one true God among those who did not know Him.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Juxtaposition** to highlight the tension between internal family conflict and external observation. The "strife" within Abram's and Lot's households is set directly against the backdrop of the "Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land." This contrast emphasizes that the dispute was not a private matter but had public implications, particularly for the testimony of God's chosen family among pagan nations. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Foreshadowing**, subtly hinting at the impending need for separation and Abram's subsequent act of peacemaking, which will demonstrate a higher spiritual principle than mere self-interest. The mention of the indigenous inhabitants also serves as a form of **Realism**, grounding the narrative in the practical realities of nomadic life and territorial claims in the ancient world, preventing an idealized portrayal of the patriarchs.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully illustrates how material blessings, while from God, can introduce practical challenges and even conflict when resources are finite and human self-interest is at play. It underscores the ever-present tension between the pursuit of personal gain and the preservation of communal harmony, especially within the family of faith. The public nature of this conflict, witnessed by the Canaanites and Perizzites, highlights the crucial biblical principle that the conduct of God's people is always under scrutiny by the world. Our internal disputes can either affirm or undermine our witness to God's character and the transforming power of His grace. This situation sets the stage for Abram's gracious and self-sacrificing act of peacemaking, demonstrating a spiritual maturity that prioritizes unity and God's honor over personal advantage, a model for believers throughout history.

* [Proverbs 15:18](/proverbs/15-18 "A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the patient person calms a quarrel.")
* [Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.")
* [1 Peter 2:12](/1_peter/2-12 "Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Genesis 13:7](/genesis/13-7 "Conflict and Witness") offers profound lessons for believers today. Firstly, it reminds us that even within the most blessed communities, practical challenges and conflicts will arise, often stemming from resource limitations or differing priorities. The way we handle these disputes is critical. Are we quick to assert our rights, or are we willing to seek peace and make sacrifices for the greater good of relationships and our collective witness? Secondly, the presence of the Canaanites and Perizzites serves as a timeless reminder that our conduct as Christians is constantly observed by a watching world. Our internal squabbles, divisions, and lack of harmony can severely undermine our testimony to the transforming power of the Gospel. Therefore, we are called to pursue peace diligently, demonstrating the love, unity, and selflessness that characterize followers of Christ, reflecting the very nature of God. This requires humility, wisdom, and a willingness to prioritize the spiritual impact of our actions over personal gain or pride.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What practical challenges or "strifes" in my life or community might be stemming from blessings or abundance rather than scarcity?**
* **How does my response to conflict, particularly within my family or church, impact my witness to those outside the faith?**
* **In what areas am I called to prioritize peace and unity, even if it means personal sacrifice, mirroring Abram's example?**
* **How can I be more mindful of the "Canaanites and Perizzites" in my own sphere of influence, ensuring my life reflects God's character?**

### FAQ
**Why is the presence of the Canaanite and Perizzite mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The mention of the Canaanite and Perizzite dwelling in the land serves a dual purpose. Practically, it highlights the finite nature of resources; Abram and Lot were not in an empty land but were competing for grazing and water with existing, established inhabitants. More significantly, it underscores the critical importance of witness. The internal strife between Abram and Lot's households was unfolding before the eyes of unbelieving nations, making their conduct a public testimony (or lack thereof) to the God they served. It emphasized the need for God's people to live distinctively and harmoniously, especially when observed by those who did not yet know Him, as their actions could either draw others to God or repel them.

**What does the Hebrew word for "strife" (rib) imply about the conflict?**

Answer: The Hebrew word *rib* (רִיב, H7379) denotes a serious contention, dispute, or even a legal quarrel. It implies that the conflict between the herdsmen was not a minor disagreement or a petty squabble but a significant and potentially escalating problem that threatened the peace and unity of the family. Its use highlights the gravity of the situation that prompted Abram to take decisive and gracious action to prevent further escalation and preserve familial harmony, rather than simply ignoring a trivial matter. This strong term emphasizes the real and present danger to their collective well-being and witness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[Genesis 13:7](/genesis/13-7 "The Problem of Strife"), with its depiction of strife arising from earthly possessions and limited resources, foreshadows the deeper, more pervasive conflict that plagues humanity: the enmity between God and humanity due to sin ([Romans 5:10](/romans/5-10 "Reconciliation through Christ")). While Abram's solution was a physical separation for the sake of peace, Christ is the ultimate Peacemaker who resolves this fundamental "strife." Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Jesus breaks down the dividing wall of hostility ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Christ is our peace")), reconciling believers to God and to one another, creating a new humanity where there is no longer Jew or Gentile, but all are one in Him ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "One in Christ Jesus")). He provides not merely abundant earthly resources, but an eternal, spiritual inheritance in His kingdom, where true peace, unity, and limitless spiritual blessings are found, transcending the earthly limitations and conflicts experienced by Abram and Lot. Believers, as heirs with Christ, are called to embody this reconciliation and peace, demonstrating the transforming power of the Gospel to a watching world, ultimately reflecting the character of the One who makes all things new and brings ultimate reconciliation to God's creation ([Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Reconciling all things through Him")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 26:20

And the herdmen of Gerar did strive with Isaac's herdmen, saying, The water [is] ours: and he called the name of the well Esek; because they strove with him.

Genesis 12:6

¶ And Abram passed through the land unto the place of Sichem, unto the plain of Moreh. And the Canaanite [was] then in the land.

James 3:16

For where envying and strife [is], there [is] confusion and every evil work.

Genesis 34:30

And Jacob said to Simeon and Levi, Ye have troubled me to make me to stink among the inhabitants of the land, among the Canaanites and the Perizzites: and I [being] few in number, they shall gather themselves together against me, and slay me; and I shall be destroyed, I and my house.

Galatians 5:20

Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,

1 Peter 2:12

Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by [your] good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

James 4:1

¶ From whence [come] wars and fightings among you? [come they] not hence, [even] of your lusts that war in your members?