Genesis 21:25

KJV

And Abraham reproved Abimelech because of a well of water, which Abimelech's servants had violently taken away.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Abraham {H85} reproved {H3198} Abimelech {H40} because {H182} of a well {H875} of water {H4325}, which Abimelech's {H40} servants {H5650} had violently taken away {H1497}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Now Avraham had complained to Avimelekh about a well which Avimelekh's servants had seized.

Berean Standard Bible

But when Abraham complained to Abimelech about a well that Abimelech’s servants had seized,

American Standard Version

And Abraham reproved Abimelech because of the well of water, which Abimelech’s servants had violently taken away.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
[Genesis 21:25](/genesis/21-25 "Abraham reproves Abimelech over a well") records Abraham's direct confrontation with Abimelech, the Philistine king, regarding a well of water unjustly seized by Abimelech's servants. This incident immediately follows a newly established covenant between the two men, highlighting the critical importance of vital resources in the ancient Near East and the necessity of upholding justice even within existing agreements.

### CONTEXT
This verse occurs shortly after Abraham and Abimelech have formally sworn a covenant of peace and mutual respect at Beer-sheba, as detailed in [Genesis 21:22-24](/genesis/21-22 "The covenant between Abraham and Abimelech"). Despite this recent oath, a dispute arises over a well, a resource of paramount importance in the arid Negev region. Wells were not merely sources of drinking water but were essential for sustaining large flocks and herds, serving as crucial indicators of wealth, territorial claim, and survival for nomadic peoples like Abraham and his extensive household. The conflict underscores the precariousness of peace when basic needs are threatened and property rights are violated.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
[Genesis 21:25](/genesis/21-25 "Abraham confronts Abimelech") describes Abraham's proactive response to an injustice committed against him. Rather than resorting to violence or passive acceptance, he directly addresses Abimelech, holding the king accountable for the actions of his subordinates. This confrontation tests the integrity of the recently formed covenant, demonstrating that even solemn agreements require ongoing vigilance and a commitment to justice to maintain peace and trust.

* **Abraham's "Reproof":** The King James Version translates Abraham's action as "reproved." The Hebrew word is _yakach_ (יָכַח), which encompasses meanings such as "to argue," "to dispute," "to rebuke," "to correct," or "to convince." This suggests a firm yet reasoned confrontation, aimed at setting things right and bringing conviction to the one responsible. It implies a desire for resolution and justice rather than mere accusation.
* **"Violently Taken Away":** The phrase "violently taken away" comes from the Hebrew verb _gazal_ (גָּזַל), meaning "to rob," "to plunder," or "to seize by force." This term emphasizes the unjust and aggressive nature of the servants' actions, highlighting a clear violation of Abraham's established rights to the well. The use of _gazal_ underscores the severity of the offense and the need for restitution.
* **Importance of Water Rights:** In the ancient Near East, control over water sources was synonymous with survival and prosperity. Wells were often the subject of intense disputes, as they represented life itself for communities, livestock, and agriculture. Abraham's insistence on his claim to the well reflects not only a personal grievance but a defense of essential property rights vital for the sustenance of his entire household.
* **Accountability of Leadership:** Abimelech, as king, is held responsible for the actions of his servants, even if he was personally unaware of their wrongdoing. This principle highlights the significant burden of responsibility that leaders bear for those under their authority, emphasizing the need for oversight and justice within their domains.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
* **Divine Provision and Human Stewardship:** The conflict over the well underscores the preciousness of God's provision (water) and the human responsibility to steward resources justly, avoiding covetousness and violent seizure.
* **Justice and Righteousness:** Abraham's "reproof" exemplifies a commitment to justice and righteousness, demonstrating that a man of faith actively seeks to rectify wrongs and uphold what is right, even when it means confronting powerful figures.
* **Integrity of Covenants:** The incident immediately tests the newly formed covenant, illustrating that divine and human agreements are not static but require ongoing commitment, communication, and a willingness to address breaches to remain effective.
* **Leadership Responsibility:** The passage implicitly teaches the principle of accountability for those in authority, reminding leaders that they are answerable for the conduct of those under their charge and must ensure justice prevails.
* **Conflict Resolution:** Abraham's approach—direct, reasoned confrontation—provides a biblical model for resolving disputes peacefully and justly, prioritizing communication over escalation.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Genesis 21:25](/genesis/21-25 "Lessons from Abraham's reproof") offers timeless lessons on conflict resolution and integrity. It teaches us the importance of directly and peacefully addressing injustices rather than allowing grievances to fester or resorting to passive aggression. Abraham's example encourages believers to stand up for what is right, not with aggression, but with clear, reasoned communication aimed at reconciliation and the restoration of justice. Furthermore, the passage serves as a powerful reminder for those in positions of authority—whether in families, workplaces, or communities—to be aware of and take responsibility for the actions of those under their charge, ensuring that their leadership fosters an environment of fairness and equity. The resolution of this well dispute ultimately leads to the naming of Beer-sheba, meaning "well of the oath," as detailed in [Genesis 21:30-31](/genesis/21-30 "Abraham's claim and Beer-sheba's naming"), demonstrating how honest communication and a commitment to justice can lead to lasting peace and established agreements.

### FAQ
**Why did Abraham choose to "reprove" Abimelech instead of taking the well back by force?**

Answer: Abraham's decision to "reprove" (Hebrew: *yakach*) Abimelech, rather than using force, reflects his character as a man of peace and faith. He had recently entered into a covenant with Abimelech, and a violent response would have violated that agreement and potentially escalated conflict. His approach demonstrates a desire for justice through direct, reasoned communication, upholding the integrity of the covenant and seeking a peaceful resolution. This aligns with his previous actions, such as his peaceful separation from Lot in [Genesis 13:8-9](/genesis/13-8 "Abraham resolves dispute with Lot").

**Does this incident imply Abimelech was intentionally deceitful or unjust?**

Answer: The text does not explicitly state that Abimelech was intentionally deceitful. In [Genesis 21:26](/genesis/21-26 "Abimelech's response to Abraham"), Abimelech claims ignorance of his servants' actions, stating he "knew not of it." This suggests that the injustice was likely committed by his servants without his direct knowledge or command. However, Abraham's reproof still holds Abimelech accountable as the leader, emphasizing the responsibility of those in authority for the actions of their subordinates, even if those actions were unknown to them.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Genesis 21:25](/genesis/21-25 "Abraham's reproof and Christ's fulfillment") describes a specific historical dispute, it points to Christ in several ways. Abraham's pursuit of justice and his willingness to confront wrongdoing peacefully foreshadow Christ, the ultimate Peacemaker and Upholder of Righteousness. Just as Abraham sought to restore what was unjustly taken, Christ came to reclaim what was lost to humanity through sin, establishing a new and eternal covenant by His blood. He is the one who perfectly embodies the *yakach* (reproof/conviction) of God, confronting sin and injustice with truth and grace, and ultimately providing the living water (John 4:10-14) that truly sustains. The resolution of this conflict, leading to the "well of the oath," prefigures the lasting peace and secure provision found in Christ, who is our ultimate covenant fulfillment and the source of all true life.

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.