Genesis 18:2

KJV

And he lift up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood by him: and when he saw [them], he ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself toward the ground,

KJV (with Strong's)

And he lift up {H5375} his eyes {H5869} and looked {H7200}, and, lo, three {H7969} men {H582} stood {H5324} by him: and when he saw {H7200} them, he ran {H7323} to meet {H7125} them from the tent {H168} door {H6607}, and bowed {H7812} himself toward the ground {H776},

Complete Jewish Bible

He raised his eyes and looked, and there in front of him stood three men. On seeing them, he ran from the tent door to meet them, prostrated himself on the ground,

Berean Standard Bible

And Abraham looked up and saw three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he ran from the entrance of his tent to meet them and bowed low to the ground.

American Standard Version

and he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood over against him: and when he saw them, he ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself to the earth,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 18:2 vividly portrays Abraham's immediate and profound response to the unexpected appearance of three mysterious figures near his tent. Despite the intense heat of the day and his advanced age, Abraham demonstrates extraordinary zeal and deep reverence, running to greet them from his tent door and prostrating himself toward the ground. This act of humble hospitality and intuitive recognition sets the stage for a pivotal divine encounter, revealing the Lord's personal engagement with His covenant partner.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This significant encounter immediately follows God's reaffirmation of His covenant with Abraham, including the miraculous promise of a son through Sarah, and the institution of circumcision as a sign of that covenant in [Genesis 17](/genesis/17 "God's Covenant with Abraham"). The narrative transitions from a formal covenant declaration to a personal, intimate visitation, highlighting God's faithfulness to His promises and His desire for direct communion with Abraham. The events of [Genesis 18](/genesis/18 "God Visits Abraham at Mamre") then flow directly into the dramatic judgment upon Sodom and Gomorrah in [Genesis 19](/genesis/19 "The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah"), with Abraham's intercession serving as a crucial bridge between divine promise and divine judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Hospitality was an indispensable and sacred duty in the ancient Near East, particularly in nomadic or semi-nomadic societies where travel was arduous and dangerous. Providing shelter, food, and water to strangers was not merely a social nicety but a matter of survival and honor, often seen as a religious obligation. Travelers were vulnerable, and their well-being was entrusted to the host. Abraham's actions in this verse, occurring during "the heat of the day" (mentioned in the preceding verse, [Genesis 18:1](/genesis/18-1 "The Lord Appears to Abraham")), underscore the depth of his commitment, as this was typically a time for rest and avoiding exertion. His prostration ("bowed himself toward the ground") was a common gesture of deep respect and submission to a superior, whether a king, a revered elder, or a deity.
* **Key Themes:** This passage contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It powerfully illustrates **Divine Faithfulness** as God continues to interact personally with Abraham, reinforcing His covenant promises. The theme of **Hospitality** is central, presented not just as a cultural custom but as a spiritual virtue that can open the door to divine encounters, as later echoed in [Hebrews 13:2](/hebrews/13-2 "Be Not Forgetful to Entertain Strangers"). Furthermore, the narrative subtly introduces the theme of **Divine Incarnation** or **Theophany**, as one of the "men" is revealed to be the Lord Himself, foreshadowing God's ultimate self-revelation in human form. Abraham's **Spiritual Discernment** is also evident in his immediate and profound reverence, suggesting an intuitive recognition of the extraordinary nature of his visitors, a theme that resonates throughout the patriarch's life, from his initial call in [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "The Call of Abram") to his willingness to sacrifice Isaac in [Genesis 22](/genesis/22 "The Testing of Abraham").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **lift up (Hebrew, _nâsâʼ'_):** From H5375, meaning "to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative." Here, it signifies Abraham's intentional act of raising his gaze to perceive his surroundings. This is not a casual glance but a deliberate, attentive observation, indicating a state of readiness or perhaps an expectation of divine activity, given the recent covenant renewal.
* **men (Hebrew, _ʼĕnôwsh'_):** From H582, properly "a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified אָדָם); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)." The use of this term initially presents the visitors as ordinary human beings, emphasizing their tangible, physical appearance. This initial perception of them as "men" heightens the later revelation that one of them is the Lord, underscoring the mystery and the extraordinary nature of the divine visitation.
* **bowed (Hebrew, _shâchâh'_):** From H7812, meaning "to depress, i.e. prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or God)." This verb denotes a deep, reverential prostration, an act of profound respect, submission, or worship. Abraham's immediate and unhesitating act of bowing suggests an intuitive recognition of the extraordinary status or divine authority of his guests, even before their true identities are explicitly revealed, setting a tone of reverence for the ensuing dialogue.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he lift up his eyes and looked":** This opening phrase establishes Abraham's active posture. It indicates a deliberate act of perception, suggesting he was not merely idly resting but was attentive to his surroundings, perhaps even expectant. His gaze is intentional, leading to a significant discovery.
* **"and, lo, three men stood by him":** The interjection "lo" (Hebrew: *hinneh*) draws immediate attention to the sudden and unexpected appearance of the three figures. They are initially described simply as "men," which is crucial for the unfolding narrative, as their true divine identity is only gradually revealed. Their presence "by him" implies they were close enough to be clearly seen and approached.
* **"and when he saw [them], he ran to meet them from the tent door":** This clause highlights Abraham's exceptional eagerness and commitment to hospitality. Despite his advanced age (he is 99 years old at this point, as per [Genesis 17:1](/genesis/17-1 "Abraham's Age at the Covenant Renewal")), he does not send a servant or merely call out. Instead, he personally exerts himself, running to extend a welcome, demonstrating the profound cultural and spiritual value placed on welcoming strangers in the ancient Near East.
* **"and bowed himself toward the ground":** This final action is profoundly significant. The act of bowing, or prostration, is a gesture of deep respect, homage, and often worship. Abraham's immediate and profound bow suggests an intuitive recognition of the extraordinary status or divine authority of his visitors, even before their true identities are explicitly revealed. This gesture prepares the reader for the subsequent dialogue, where Abraham addresses one of the men as "my Lord" in [Genesis 18:3](/genesis/18-3 "Abraham Addresses the Lord").

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices. The use of **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as the initial description of the visitors as "three men" subtly hints at their extraordinary nature, which is later revealed to include the Lord Himself. Abraham's immediate and profound act of bowing serves as a form of **Symbolism**, representing not just cultural deference but also a deeper, spiritual recognition of divine presence. Furthermore, the detail that Abraham "ran" despite his age can be seen as a form of **Hyperbole** or **Emphasis**, highlighting the extraordinary zeal and urgency of his hospitality, underscoring the profound importance of the encounter.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 18:2 serves as a foundational text for understanding divine visitation and the profound virtue of hospitality. The appearance of "three men," one of whom is revealed to be the Lord, underscores God's personal and active involvement in the lives of His chosen people. This pre-incarnate appearance of Christ (a Christophany) highlights God's desire for direct communion with humanity and His faithfulness to His covenant promises. Abraham's immediate, energetic, and reverent response exemplifies the profound biblical virtue of hospitality, presenting it not merely as a social custom but as a pathway for divine encounter and blessing. His actions demonstrate a humble readiness to serve and honor his guests, coupled with an instinctive reverence that suggests a spiritual discernment of their extraordinary nature, teaching us that welcoming strangers can indeed be welcoming the divine.

* [Hebrews 13:2](/hebrews/13-2 "Be Not Forgetful to Entertain Strangers")
* [Matthew 25:35-40](/matthew/25-35-40 "The Sheep and the Goats")
* [Luke 24:28-31](/luke/24-28-31 "The Emmaus Disciples Recognize Jesus")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 18:2 offers a timeless and profound challenge regarding our posture towards others, particularly the unexpected guest or the stranger in our midst. Abraham's spontaneous, selfless, and reverent welcome to these mysterious visitors serves as a powerful and enduring model for Christian hospitality. It reminds us that opening our homes, our resources, and our lives to others, even those we do not know, can be a pathway for divine interaction, unexpected blessings, and opportunities to serve Christ Himself. Just as Abraham's attentiveness led to a divine encounter, our readiness to extend grace and welcome can transform ordinary interactions into sacred moments. This passage encourages us to cultivate a spirit of generosity, attentiveness, and humility, recognizing that every person we encounter carries inherent dignity and the potential for a divine appointment, whether we are hosting angels unawares or simply reflecting the love of God to our neighbor.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Abraham's immediate and energetic response challenge your understanding of hospitality in your own life?**
* **In what ways might you be "entertaining angels unawares" (Hebrews 13:2) by showing kindness to strangers or those in need?**
* **What does Abraham's act of bowing to the ground teach us about the posture of reverence and humility in encountering the divine or those who bear God's image?**

### FAQ
**Who were the "three men" who appeared to Abraham?**

Answer: While initially appearing as ordinary men, the subsequent narrative reveals that one of them is the Lord Himself (often understood as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ), and the other two are angels who later proceed to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah ([Genesis 19:1](/genesis/19-1 "The Angels Visit Lot in Sodom")). This visitation highlights God's personal engagement with Abraham.

**Why did Abraham "run to meet them" and "bowed himself toward the ground"?**

Answer: Abraham's actions demonstrate extraordinary hospitality and deep reverence, characteristic of ancient Near Eastern culture but amplified by his personal zeal. Running, despite his advanced age, shows his eagerness and commitment to welcoming guests, prioritizing their comfort above his own. Bowing himself to the ground (Hebrew: *shachah*) signifies profound respect, homage, and even worship, indicating he instinctively recognized the unusual and significant status of his visitors, perhaps even their divine nature, even before it was explicitly revealed in the dialogue that follows in [Genesis 18:3](/genesis/18-3 "Abraham Addresses the Lord").

**Does Abraham's immediate reverence imply he knew they were divine?**

Answer: The text does not explicitly state that Abraham knew their full divine identity at first glance. However, his immediate and profound act of bowing (*shachah*), a gesture often reserved for worship or profound respect for royalty, strongly suggests an intuitive spiritual discernment or an overwhelming sense of awe and respect for their presence. His subsequent address to one of them as "my Lord" in [Genesis 18:3](/genesis/18-3 "Abraham Addresses the Lord") confirms his growing recognition of the divine nature of at least one of his visitors.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The appearance of the Lord alongside two angels in Genesis 18:2 serves as a profound pre-incarnate manifestation of Christ (a Christophany), foreshadowing God's ultimate act of hospitality and self-revelation in the person of Jesus. Just as the Lord visited Abraham in human form, so too did Christ fully humble Himself to take on human flesh, dwelling among us, as powerfully articulated in [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "The Word Became Flesh"). This encounter highlights the relational and immanent nature of God, who desires to draw near to humanity. Christ, the ultimate divine guest, not only came to dwell with us but also exemplified perfect hospitality, inviting all to His table and offering the ultimate welcome into the family of God through His atoning sacrifice on the cross ([John 6:37](/john/6-37 "All that the Father gives me will come to me")). Abraham's open tent prefigures the open arms of Christ, who welcomes all who come to Him, offering eternal rest and fellowship, and ultimately preparing a dwelling place for His people in the Father's house ([John 14:2-3](/john/14-2-3 "Jesus Prepares a Place for His Disciples")). This passage thus points to the God who initiates relationship, condescends to meet humanity, and ultimately provides the means for eternal communion through His Son.

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

Hebrews 13:2

Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

Genesis 18:22

And the men turned their faces from thence, and went toward Sodom: but Abraham stood yet before the LORD.

Genesis 19:1

¶ And there came two angels to Sodom at even; and Lot sat in the gate of Sodom: and Lot seeing [them] rose up to meet them; and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground;

Genesis 23:7

And Abraham stood up, and bowed himself to the people of the land, [even] to the children of Heth.

Judges 13:3

And the angel of the LORD appeared unto the woman, and said unto her, Behold now, thou [art] barren, and bearest not: but thou shalt conceive, and bear a son.

Genesis 43:28

And they answered, Thy servant our father [is] in good health, he [is] yet alive. And they bowed down their heads, and made obeisance.

Genesis 18:16

¶ And the men rose up from thence, and looked toward Sodom: and Abraham went with them to bring them on the way.