Genesis 15:1

ยถ After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I [am] thy shield, [and] thy exceeding great reward.

After {H310} these things {H1697} the word {H1697} of the LORD {H3068} came {H1961} unto Abram {H87} in a vision {H4236}, saying {H559}, Fear {H3372} not, Abram {H87}: I am thy shield {H4043}, and thy exceeding {H3966} great {H7235} reward {H7939}.

Some time later the word of ADONAI came to Avram in a vision: "Don't be afraid, Avram. I am your protector; your reward will be very great."

After these events, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: โ€œDo not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.โ€

After these things the word of Jehovah came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.

Commentary

Genesis 15:1 presents a pivotal moment in the life of Abram (later Abraham), where God reaffirms His commitment and identity to His servant. Following a significant victory and a potential moment of vulnerability, the Lord speaks directly to Abram, offering profound comfort and self-revelation.

Context

This verse immediately follows Abram's successful military campaign to rescue his nephew Lot and his principled rejection of spoils from the King of Sodom (see Genesis 14:22-24). Despite this triumph, Abram might have felt exposed to future retaliation from the defeated kings, or perhaps he pondered the unfulfilled promise of descendants given his advanced age. It is in this context of potential anxiety or uncertainty that "the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision," providing much-needed reassurance and setting the stage for the formal covenant.

Key Themes

  • Divine Assurance and Protection: The opening divine command, "Fear not, Abram," directly addresses any apprehension Abram might have felt. God declares Himself as "thy shield," a powerful metaphor signifying His unwavering protection, defense, and security for Abram. This theme of God as a protector is echoed throughout Scripture, offering comfort to His people in times of trouble (e.g., Psalm 3:3, Psalm 18:30).
  • God as the Ultimate Reward: Beyond protection, God reveals Himself as Abram's "exceeding great reward." This phrase elevates God Himself above any earthly treasure, land, or offspring. It suggests that the greatest blessing Abram could receive was not merely what God could give, but God Himself and His covenant presence. This profound truth lays the groundwork for the covenant that follows in this chapter, emphasizing the spiritual richness of a relationship with the Almighty.
  • Faith Amidst Uncertainty: The vision serves as a call for Abram to place his complete trust in God's character and promises, even when the fulfillment seems distant or the path ahead is unclear. It encourages reliance on divine power rather than human strength or worldly gains.

Linguistic Insights

  • The phrase "Fear not" (Hebrew: ืึทืœึพืชึผึดื™ืจึธื, *al-tira*) is a common divine declaration in the Bible, often preceding a significant revelation or a reaffirmation of God's presence and purpose. It is a direct command to dispel anxiety.
  • The term "shield" (Hebrew: ืžึธื’ึตืŸ, *magen*) denotes a protective barrier, symbolizing God's active defense against all threats, seen and unseen, for those who trust in Him.
  • "Exceeding great reward" (Hebrew: ืฉื‚ึธื›ึธืจ ื”ึทืจึฐื‘ึผึตื” ืžึฐืึนื“, *sakhar harbeh me'od*) literally means "very much reward." The intensity of the Hebrew adverb *me'od* ("very, exceedingly") underscores the immeasurable value and immense blessing found in God Himself, far surpassing any material gain.

Practical Application

Genesis 15:1 offers timeless comfort and direction for believers today. In moments of fear, doubt, or vulnerability, we are reminded that God is our ultimate protector and provider. Our security is not found in wealth, power, or human achievements, but in the unfailing presence and promises of God. He is not just the giver of good things, but the greatest good Himself. This verse encourages us to trust God's sovereignty and to find our deepest satisfaction and security in Him, recognizing that a relationship with Him is the most "exceeding great reward" we can ever possess.

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

Cross-References

  • Isaiah 41:10 (50 votes)

    ยถ Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

  • Psalms 119:114 (41 votes)

    ยถ Thou [art] my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.

  • Psalms 84:11 (39 votes)

    For the LORD God [is] a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good [thing] will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.

  • Hebrews 13:5 (34 votes)

    [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

  • Hebrews 13:6 (34 votes)

    So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

  • Genesis 26:24 (32 votes)

    And the LORD appeared unto him the same night, and said, I [am] the God of Abraham thy father: fear not, for I [am] with thee, and will bless thee, and multiply thy seed for my servant Abraham's sake.

  • Isaiah 41:14 (31 votes)

    Fear not, thou worm Jacob, [and] ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.