Genesis 21:22

ยถ And it came to pass at that time, that Abimelech and Phichol the chief captain of his host spake unto Abraham, saying, God [is] with thee in all that thou doest:

And it came to pass at that time {H6256}, that Abimelech {H40} and Phichol {H6369} the chief captain {H8269} of his host {H6635} spake {H559} unto Abraham {H85}, saying {H559}, God {H430} is with thee in all that thou doest {H6213}:

At that time Avimelekh and Pikhol the commander of his army spoke to Avraham. They said, "God is with you in everything you do.

At that time Abimelech and Phicol the commander of his army said to Abraham, โ€œGod is with you in all that you do.

And it came to pass at that time, that Abimelech and Phicol the captain of his host spake unto Abraham, saying, God is with thee in all that thou doest:

Commentary

Genesis 21:22 marks a significant moment in Abraham's journey, highlighting the visible blessing of God upon his life. This verse captures a pivotal interaction that underscores divine favor and recognition from an unexpected source.

Context

This verse immediately follows the birth of Isaac and the emotionally charged departure of Hagar and Ishmael. Abraham has established himself in Beersheba, and his household and possessions have grown considerably. Abimelech, the Philistine king of Gerar, accompanied by Phichol, his chief military captain, initiates contact with Abraham. This is not their first encounter; Abraham and Abimelech previously interacted in Genesis chapter 20, where God intervened to protect Sarah and Abimelech's household. Abimelech's approach in Genesis 21:22, accompanied by his chief captain, suggests a formal recognition of Abraham's growing power and influence in the land, prompting a desire to secure a peaceful relationship.

Key Themes

  • Divine Presence and Favor: The central theme is Abimelech's clear and unsolicited declaration: "God is with thee in all that thou doest." This powerful affirmation speaks to the undeniable evidence of God's active hand and blessing upon Abraham's life, leading to his prosperity and success.
  • Recognition by Outsiders: It is highly significant that a pagan king, outside the covenant lineage, acknowledges God's presence with Abraham. This testifies to the visible and compelling nature of God's blessing, which was so evident that even those who did not worship Yahweh could perceive it.
  • Blessing and Success: Abraham's flourishing life and security are attributed directly to God's constant presence. This serves as a tangible manifestation of God's covenant promises to Abraham, including making him a great nation and blessing him.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated "God is with thee" is Elohim itteka (ืึฑืœึนื”ึดื™ื ืึดืชึฐึผืšึธ). This is more than a statement of mere proximity; it conveys a profound sense of divine companionship, active support, and protective favor. It implies that God is actively working through Abraham, empowering his endeavors and ensuring his success. This concept of God's abiding presence is a recurring and foundational theme throughout the Bible for those whom He calls and blesses, echoing promises like the one given to Jacob at Bethel, "I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest."

Practical Application

Genesis 21:22 offers timeless insights for believers today:

  • The Source of True Success: This verse reminds us that genuine success and security do not come from human effort alone but from the active presence and favor of God in our lives.
  • A Visible Testimony: When God is truly with us, His blessing can be so evident that even those who do not share our faith may recognize His hand upon us. Our lives can become a powerful testimony to His power and faithfulness.
  • Living in Integrity: Abraham's consistent walk, despite past failings, allowed God's blessing to be seen. This encourages us to live lives of integrity and trust, knowing that God's favor can open doors and provide protection, even in challenging environments.
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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

  • Genesis 26:26 (6 votes)

    ยถ Then Abimelech went to him from Gerar, and Ahuzzath one of his friends, and Phichol the chief captain of his army.

  • Genesis 26:28 (5 votes)

    And they said, We saw certainly that the LORD was with thee: and we said, Let there be now an oath betwixt us, [even] betwixt us and thee, and let us make a covenant with thee;

  • Joshua 3:7 (5 votes)

    ยถ And the LORD said unto Joshua, This day will I begin to magnify thee in the sight of all Israel, that they may know that, as I was with Moses, [so] I will be with thee.

  • Genesis 20:2 (5 votes)

    And Abraham said of Sarah his wife, She [is] my sister: and Abimelech king of Gerar sent, and took Sarah.

  • Isaiah 8:10 (4 votes)

    Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God [is] with us.

  • Hebrews 13:5 (4 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.

  • 1 Corinthians 14:25 (4 votes)

    And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on [his] face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.