Genesis 14:14

And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained [servants], born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued [them] unto Dan.

And when Abram {H87} heard {H8085} that his brother {H251} was taken captive {H7617}, he armed {H7324} his trained {H2593} servants, born {H3211} in his own house {H1004}, three {H7969} hundred {H3967} and eighteen {H6240}{H8083}, and pursued {H7291} them unto Dan {H1835}.

When Avram heard that his nephew had been taken captive, he led out his trained men, who had been born in his house, 318 of them, and went in pursuit as far as Dan.

And when Abram heard that his relative had been captured, he mobilized the 318 trained men born in his household, and they set out in pursuit as far as Dan.

And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he led forth his trained men, born in his house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued as far as Dan.

Commentary

Genesis 14:14 marks a pivotal moment showcasing Abram's character and capabilities. Upon hearing that his nephew Lot had been taken captive during a conflict between kings, Abram immediately mobilized his personal force to rescue him.

Context

This verse follows the dramatic account of the "Battle of the Kings" (Genesis 14:1-11), where Kedorlaomer and his allied Mesopotamian kings defeated the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah. In the aftermath, the victors plundered Sodom and Gomorrah, taking captives, including Lot, who was dwelling in Sodom. When a survivor reported this to Abram, it spurred him into action, demonstrating his deep familial loyalty despite Lot's questionable choice of residence.

Key Themes

  • Abram's Loyalty and Courage: Abram's immediate and decisive response to Lot's predicament highlights his strong family bonds and courageous spirit. He risked his own safety and resources to deliver his kinsman.
  • Abram's Military Prowess: This verse reveals Abram as more than just a nomadic shepherd; he commanded a significant, well-trained, and loyal personal army. This detail underscores his status and influence in the ancient Near East, reflecting the divine promise that he would become a great nation.
  • Divine Providence (Implied): While not explicitly stated here, Abram's successful rescue mission implicitly points to God's hand guiding and protecting him, as he later acknowledges God as the "Most High God, possessor of heaven and earth" (Genesis 14:19-20).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "trained [servants]" translates the Hebrew word แธฅฤƒnรฎแธตรฎm (ื—ึฒื ึดื™ื›ึดื™ื), which refers to those 'initiated,' 'trained,' or 'dedicated' within a household. These were not mere hired laborers but individuals born into Abram's household or long-term dependents who had been thoroughly instructed and were deeply loyal. The specific number, "three hundred and eighteen," emphasizes the precise and formidable nature of Abram's personal fighting force, indicating a highly organized and disciplined group rather than a mere rabble.

Historical and Cultural Context

In the ancient Near East, powerful patriarchal households like Abram's often functioned as self-sufficient units, capable of defense and even offense. The "three hundred and eighteen" men indicate a substantial retinue, suggesting Abram's considerable wealth and influence. The mention of "Dan" is an interesting geographical note; while the city was not known by this name until centuries later (Judges 18:29), it likely represents a later editorial update for the benefit of contemporary readers, showing the full extent of Abram's pursuit into the northern reaches of Canaan.

Practical Application

Abram's actions in Genesis 14:14 offer several timeless lessons:

  • Responsibility for Family: We are called to care for and protect our loved ones, even when their choices may have led them into difficult situations.
  • Using Resources for Good: Abram leveraged his personal resources and influence not for personal gain, but for the welfare of his family. Believers are encouraged to use their God-given talents, wealth, and positions to help others, especially those in distress.
  • Courage in Adversity: Abram did not shrink from confronting a powerful coalition of kings. His courage serves as an example for facing challenges with faith and determination. His later role as an intercessor for Sodom further illustrates his bold faith.
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Cross-References

  • Judges 18:29 (6 votes)

    And they called the name of the city Dan, after the name of Dan their father, who was born unto Israel: howbeit the name of the city [was] Laish at the first.

  • Genesis 15:3 (5 votes)

    And Abram said, Behold, to me thou hast given no seed: and, lo, one born in my house is mine heir.

  • Genesis 17:27 (4 votes)

    And all the men of his house, born in the house, and bought with money of the stranger, were circumcised with him.

  • Deuteronomy 34:1 (4 votes)

    ยถ And Moses went up from the plains of Moab unto the mountain of Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, that [is] over against Jericho. And the LORD shewed him all the land of Gilead, unto Dan,

  • Genesis 17:12 (4 votes)

    And he that is eight days old shall be circumcised among you, every man child in your generations, he that is born in the house, or bought with money of any stranger, which [is] not of thy seed.

  • Ecclesiastes 2:7 (4 votes)

    I got [me] servants and maidens, and had servants born in my house; also I had great possessions of great and small cattle above all that were in Jerusalem before me:

  • Proverbs 24:11 (4 votes)

    ยถ If thou forbear to deliver [them that are] drawn unto death, and [those that are] ready to be slain;