Genesis 17:13

KJV

He that is born in thy house, and he that is bought with thy money, must needs be circumcised: and my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant.

KJV (with Strong's)

He that is born {H3211} in thy house {H1004}, and he that is bought {H4736} with thy money {H3701}, must needs {H4135} be circumcised {H4135}: and my covenant {H1285} shall be in your flesh {H1320} for an everlasting {H5769} covenant {H1285}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The slave born in your house and the person bought with your money must be circumcised; thus my covenant will be in your flesh as an everlasting covenant.

Berean Standard Bible

Whether they are born in your household or purchased, they must be circumcised. My covenant in your flesh will be an everlasting covenant.

American Standard Version

He that is born in thy house, and he that is bought with thy money, must needs be circumcised: and my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 17:13 articulates God's precise command regarding the covenant sign of circumcision, mandating its application to every male within Abraham's household, encompassing both those born into his family and those acquired through purchase. This directive underscores the comprehensive and inclusive nature of the Abrahamic covenant, extending its physical mark and the associated spiritual obligations beyond direct biological lineage to encompass the entire community under Abraham's patriarchal authority, thereby signifying God's enduring commitment to His chosen people through this perpetual sign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 17 marks a pivotal moment in the Abrahamic narrative, occurring thirteen years after Ishmael's birth in [Genesis 16](/genesis/16 "Genesis 16 - Abram and Hagar"). God appears to Abram, now ninety-nine years old, to reaffirm and expand the covenant previously established in [Genesis 12](/genesis/12 "Genesis 12 - The Call of Abram") and [Genesis 15](/genesis/15 "Genesis 15 - God's Covenant with Abram"). This chapter introduces the new names Abraham and Sarah, signifying their transformed roles in God's plan, and definitively promises a son, Isaac, through Sarah. The institution of circumcision, detailed from [Genesis 17:9](/genesis/17-9 "Circumcision as a Covenant Sign") onwards, serves as the physical, perpetual sign of this renewed covenant, with verses 12-13 specifically broadening its scope to include all males within Abraham's household, irrespective of their origin. This emphasis on inclusivity prepares the narrative for Isaac's birth and the subsequent unfolding of God's redemptive plan through a chosen people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, covenants were foundational to political, social, and religious life, often involving specific rituals, oaths, and physical signs to seal agreements. While other cultures practiced forms of circumcision, its significance in the Abrahamic covenant was unique, serving as an exclusive mark of identity and belonging to Yahweh. Patriarchal households like Abraham's were comprehensive economic and social units, including not only immediate family but also extended relatives, servants, and slaves. Slaves were often acquired through birth within the household, purchase, or as spoils of war, and were considered integral, albeit subordinate, members of the family unit. The head of the household held immense authority and responsibility for the spiritual and physical well-being of all under his care. Thus, the command for universal circumcision within Abraham's household reflected the corporate nature of ancient societies, where the covenant relationship of the patriarch extended to all those dependent on him, integrating them into the covenant community and its obligations.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. The primary theme is the **Covenant** itself, specifically the Abrahamic Covenant, which is here formally ratified and given a lasting physical sign. This underscores God's faithfulness and His initiative in establishing a relationship with humanity. Closely related is the theme of **Inclusion and Corporate Identity**, as the command extends beyond Abraham's biological descendants to encompass his entire household, highlighting that God's covenant people are defined not solely by bloodline but also by association and obedience within a divinely ordained community. The theme of **Obedience** is also prominent, as circumcision is presented as a mandatory act, a condition for remaining within the visible covenant community and receiving its blessings. Finally, the phrase "everlasting covenant" introduces the theme of **God's Enduring Promises**, signaling the perpetual nature of God's commitment to Abraham and his seed, even as the specific manifestations of the covenant might evolve. This foreshadows the broader scope of God's redemptive plan, ultimately culminating in the new covenant in Christ, which embraces all nations, as seen in [Galatians 3:7-9](/galatians/3-7-9 "Galatians 3:7-9 - Abraham's Spiritual Descendants").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **covenant (Hebrew, _bᵉrîyth'_):** From a root meaning "to cut," this term signifies a solemn, binding agreement or treaty. In biblical usage, it often denotes a divine initiative where God establishes a relationship with humanity, outlining mutual obligations and promises. The act of "cutting" is significant, possibly alluding to ancient covenant rituals involving the cutting of animals (as in [Genesis 15:17-18](/genesis/15-17-18 "God's Covenant with Abram")). Here, it defines the unique relationship between God and Abraham's household.
* **circumcised (Hebrew, _mûwl'_):** A primitive root meaning "to cut short," specifically referring to the curtailment of the prepuce. This act, while practiced by some ancient cultures, is uniquely imbued with theological significance here as the physical mark of God's covenant with Abraham. It implies a cutting away, a setting apart, and a dedication to God.
* **everlasting (Hebrew, _ʻôwlâm'_):** Properly meaning "concealed" or "the vanishing point," this word refers to time out of mind, either past or future, practically signifying eternity or a very long duration. In the context of a covenant, it emphasizes the enduring, perpetual nature of God's commitment and promises, extending through all relevant dispensations and generations. It signifies an unceasing, foundational aspect of the divine agreement.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He that is born in thy house, and he that is bought with thy money, must needs be circumcised:"** This clause meticulously defines the scope of the circumcision command. "He that is born in thy house" refers to those born to servants within Abraham's household, indicating that the covenant's reach extended to multiple generations of those under his patriarchal authority, not just his direct biological offspring. "He that is bought with thy money" specifically includes slaves acquired through purchase, further emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the command. This demonstrates a principle of corporate identity, where the spiritual standing and covenant obligations of the head of the household (Abraham) encompassed all under his care and authority. The phrase "must needs be circumcised" (derived from the Hebrew root _mûwl_) underscores the mandatory and non-negotiable nature of this divine command, making it a condition for participation in the visible covenant community and its blessings.
* **"and my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant."** This second clause reiterates and reinforces the profound significance of circumcision as a permanent, physical mark. It was literally "in your flesh," an indelible sign distinguishing Abraham's descendants and his entire household as God's chosen covenant people. The repetition of "covenant" (Hebrew: _bᵉrîyth_) emphasizes its centrality. The term "everlasting covenant" (Hebrew: _bᵉrîyth 'ôwlâm_) is crucial, denoting a covenant of perpetual duration. While the physical sign itself would later be superseded by the New Covenant's spiritual reality, the underlying promises of God and His faithfulness remain perpetual. This signifies an enduring, foundational commitment from God that transcends generations and dispensations, pointing to the unchangeable nature of His divine purpose.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Repetition** by using the word "covenant" twice, first referring to "my covenant" and then "for an everlasting covenant." This repetition serves to emphasize the central importance and enduring nature of the divine agreement. **Symbolism** is paramount, as circumcision is not merely a physical act but a profound symbol of identity, belonging, and dedication to God. It marks the recipient as set apart for God's purposes and as a participant in His promises. The phrase "in your flesh" uses **Metonymy**, where "flesh" stands for the entire person, indicating that the covenant mark permeates the very being and identity of the individual, not just a superficial act. The inclusion of both "born in thy house" and "bought with thy money" creates a sense of **Inclusivity** or **Totality**, ensuring that no male within Abraham's sphere of influence is exempt from this foundational command, highlighting the comprehensive reach of God's covenant.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 17:13 is a powerful testament to the comprehensive and enduring nature of God's covenant with Abraham. It reveals that God's redemptive plan was never intended to be narrowly confined to biological lineage but extended to the entire household of faith, establishing a corporate identity for those associated with the covenant head. This principle foreshadows the broader inclusivity of God's people, ultimately fulfilled in Christ, where believers from all nations are united into one body. The physical sign of circumcision served as a constant, visible reminder of their distinct identity and their commitment to the covenant, signifying a cutting away from the world and a consecration to God. The "everlasting" nature of the covenant speaks to God's unwavering faithfulness and the perpetual validity of His promises, even as the mode of their fulfillment and the signs associated with them may evolve.

* [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "The Call of Abram and God's Promise")
* [Romans 4:11-12](/romans/4-11-12 "Abraham as the Father of All Believers")
* [Galatians 3:28-29](/galatians/3-28-29 "Unity in Christ and Abraham's Seed")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 17:13 offers profound insights into the nature of covenant and community for believers today. The inclusion of the entire household, regardless of birth or purchase, reminds us that faith is not a purely individualistic pursuit but has corporate implications. For families, this highlights the spiritual responsibility of parents and heads of households to lead those under their care in obedience to God's commands and to nurture a shared identity in Christ. While the physical sign of circumcision is no longer required under the New Covenant, the principle of a visible mark of belonging to God's people remains, now expressed through baptism and participation in the life of the church. The "everlasting" nature of God's covenant assures us of His enduring faithfulness through all generations, providing a firm foundation for our hope and trust. This verse calls us to consider how we, as individuals and as communities, embody our covenant relationship with God, living out our faith in ways that demonstrate our distinct identity as His people and our commitment to His purposes in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the inclusivity of Abraham's household in the covenant challenge our understanding of "family" or "community" in a spiritual sense today?**
* **What are the modern-day "marks" or practices that signify our belonging to God's covenant people in the New Covenant?**
* **In what ways can we, as individuals or heads of households, take responsibility for the spiritual well-being and covenant participation of those under our care?**
* **How does the concept of an "everlasting covenant" strengthen your faith in God's faithfulness and His promises for your life and for the Church?**

### FAQ

**Why were slaves and those born in the house included in the covenant?**

Answer: The inclusion of slaves and those born in the house in the covenant through circumcision highlights the comprehensive nature of God's covenant with Abraham. It demonstrates that the covenant was not solely based on biological lineage but also on association with Abraham's household and his spiritual authority. In ancient Near Eastern society, the household was a corporate unit, and the head's spiritual standing and obligations extended to all under his care. This principle established a corporate identity for the household, where the patriarch's faith and obedience brought the entire unit into the visible covenant community, underscoring the responsibility of the patriarch for the spiritual well-being of all under his care, as seen in Abraham's example in [Genesis 18:19](/genesis/18-19 "Abraham's Faithfulness and Household").

**Does 'everlasting covenant' mean physical circumcision is still required today?**

Answer: While the covenant itself is "everlasting" in terms of God's enduring promises and faithfulness to Abraham and his spiritual descendants, the *sign* of the covenant has evolved. The term "everlasting" (Hebrew: _ʻôwlâm_) refers to a perpetual duration, extending through all relevant dispensations. In the New Covenant, established through Jesus Christ, the physical rite of circumcision is no longer required for salvation or inclusion in God's people. The New Testament teaches that true circumcision is of the heart, a spiritual transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit, not by a physical act ([Romans 2:29](/romans/2-29 "Spiritual Circumcision in Christ")). The "everlasting" nature refers to the enduring validity of God's covenant promises, which find their ultimate fulfillment in Christ, rather than the perpetual necessity of the specific physical sign. This spiritual circumcision is what truly marks God's people in the new era, as articulated by Paul in [Colossians 2:11-12](/colossians/2-11-12 "Colossians 2:11-12 - Circumcision of Christ").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Genesis 17:13, with its emphasis on a physical mark of an "everlasting covenant" encompassing Abraham's entire household, finds its profound and ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the New Covenant. The physical circumcision of the flesh, a sign of separation and dedication, pointed forward to a deeper, spiritual reality: the "circumcision of the heart" ([Deuteronomy 30:6](/deuteronomy/30-6 "Circumcision of the Heart")), which is a work of God's Spirit, removing the sinful nature and bringing believers into true covenant relationship with God ([Colossians 2:11](/colossians/2-11 "Spiritual Circumcision in Christ")). Jesus, as the true seed of Abraham ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Galatians 3:16 - The Seed of Abraham")), fulfills all the promises of the Abrahamic Covenant, extending its blessings not just to a physical lineage but to all who believe, regardless of their ethnic origin or social status ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - No Jew or Gentile in Christ")). Through faith in Christ, believers are grafted into God's covenant people, marked not by a physical sign but by the indwelling Holy Spirit ([Ephesians 1:13-14](/ephesians/1-13-14 "Sealed with the Holy Spirit")), becoming participants in a new and better covenant that is truly everlasting and spiritual in nature, established on better promises through Christ's shed blood ([Hebrews 8:6-13](/hebrews/8-6-13 "The New Covenant in Christ")).

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

Exodus 12:44

But every man's servant that is bought for money, when thou hast circumcised him, then shall he eat thereof.

Nehemiah 5:8

And I said unto them, We after our ability have redeemed our brethren the Jews, which were sold unto the heathen; and will ye even sell your brethren? or shall they be sold unto us? Then held they their peace, and found nothing [to answer].

Genesis 37:36

And the Midianites sold him into Egypt unto Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh's, [and] captain of the guard.

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.

Genesis 15:3

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

Exodus 21:4

If his master have given him a wife, and she have born him sons or daughters; the wife and her children shall be her master's, and he shall go out by himself.

Nehemiah 5:5

Yet now our flesh [is] as the flesh of our brethren, our children as their children: and, lo, we bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and [some] of our daughters are brought unto bondage [already]: neither [is it] in our power [to redeem them]; for other men have our lands and vineyards.