Genesis 21:29

KJV

And Abimelech said unto Abraham, What [mean] these seven ewe lambs which thou hast set by themselves?

KJV (with Strong's)

And Abimelech {H40} said {H559} unto Abraham {H85}, What {H2008} mean these seven {H7651} ewe lambs {H3535} which thou hast set {H5324} by themselves?

Complete Jewish Bible

Avimelekh asked Avraham, "What is the meaning of these seven female lambs you have put by themselves?"

Berean Standard Bible

and Abimelech asked him, “Why have you set apart these seven ewe lambs?”

American Standard Version

And Abimelech said unto Abraham, What mean these seven ewe lambs which thou hast set by themselves?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 21:29 records Abimelech's direct and inquisitive question to Abraham concerning the purpose and significance of the seven ewe lambs Abraham had deliberately set apart. This pivotal inquiry serves as the immediate precursor to the formalization of a covenant between the two leaders regarding a disputed well, illuminating the ancient Near Eastern custom of using specific offerings and symbolic numbers to solemnize agreements, establish clear ownership, and ultimately leading to the naming of Beersheba, the "well of the oath."

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a crucial segment of the Abrahamic narrative, specifically detailing his interactions with Abimelech, the Philistine king of Gerar. The preceding verses establish Abimelech's initiative to form a covenant with Abraham, acknowledging God's evident blessing upon Abraham's life and endeavors [Genesis 21:22](/genesis/21-22 "Abimelech acknowledges God's presence with Abraham"). However, Abraham then raises a grievance concerning a well that his servants had dug but which Abimelech's servants had seized [Genesis 21:25](/genesis/21-25 "Abraham complains about the well"). Abimelech's question in verse 29 directly follows Abraham's action of setting aside the seven ewe lambs, an act clearly intended as a form of witness or proof, prompting Abimelech to seek clarification before the formal oath-taking. This sets the stage for the solemn covenant that follows, culminating in the naming of Beersheba.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, water sources were vital for survival, especially for nomadic pastoralists like Abraham. Disputes over wells were common and often led to conflict. Covenants (treaties or agreements) were a primary means of establishing peace, defining boundaries, and securing rights between individuals or groups. Such covenants were frequently solemnized by specific rituals, including the giving of gifts, the offering of sacrifices, and the swearing of oaths, often invoking deities as witnesses. The number seven held profound symbolic significance, frequently associated with completeness, perfection, and the sacred, making its inclusion in a covenant ritual particularly potent. The act of "setting aside" animals for a specific purpose was a recognized custom for preparing a formal presentation or offering, underscoring the gravity of the impending agreement.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 21:29 contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the theme of **covenant-making** as a foundational element of relationships, both human and divine, demonstrating how agreements were established and solemnized in the ancient world. The verse also underscores the theme of **God's faithfulness and providence**, as He continues to guide Abraham even in mundane disputes, ensuring his well-being and the security of his lineage. Furthermore, the emphasis on **witness and testimony** is prominent, as Abraham's actions are designed to provide clear proof of his claim, a concept echoed throughout scripture regarding truth and verifiable evidence. Finally, the symbolic weight of the number **seven** and its connection to the naming of [Beersheba](/genesis/21-31 "The Naming of Beersheba, the Well of the Oath") reinforces the theme of **divine order and completeness**, which permeates the biblical narrative from [the creation account](/genesis/1 "Genesis 1 - The Creation Account") to the eschatological vision of [Revelation](/revelation/1 "The Book of Revelation").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Abimelech (Hebrew, _ʼĂbîymelek'_):** From the Hebrew words for "father" (אָב) and "king" (מֶלֶךְ), meaning "father of (the) king." This name is borne by two Philistine kings in Genesis (here and in [Genesis 26](/genesis/26 "Isaac and Abimelech")), suggesting it might have been a dynastic title rather than a personal name, signifying his authoritative and paternal role over his people. His direct question here underscores his position of authority and his desire for clarity and order.
* **ewe lambs (Hebrew, _kibsâh'_):** A feminine noun referring specifically to a female lamb. The selection of ewe lambs, particularly seven of them, is significant. Lambs were valuable animals, often used for sacrifices, offerings, or as a form of payment or gift. Their innocence and economic value made them suitable for solemnizing agreements, and their specific number (seven) carried deep symbolic weight in ancient Near Eastern culture, pointing towards the completeness and binding nature of the agreement.
* **set (Hebrew, _nâtsab'_):** A primitive root meaning "to station," "to erect," or "to establish." In this context, it implies Abraham deliberately and purposefully placed or arranged the lambs "by themselves," indicating a formal, intentional act rather than a casual grouping. This action was a public declaration, a visual signal that something significant was about to occur or be attested to, prompting Abimelech's inquiry.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Abimelech said unto Abraham,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes the speaker and the recipient of the inquiry, highlighting the directness of the interaction between the Philistine king and Abraham. It sets the stage for a formal exchange, indicating Abimelech's initiative in seeking clarification.
* **"What [mean] these seven ewe lambs which thou hast set by themselves?"**: Abimelech's question is one of genuine curiosity and a desire for understanding the specific custom or significance behind Abraham's actions. The phrase "set by themselves" emphasizes the deliberate and distinct placement of the lambs, signaling their special purpose. Abimelech recognizes the symbolic nature of the act and seeks its interpretation, which will lead to Abraham's explanation and the subsequent covenant.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Dialogue** is central, as Abimelech's direct question to Abraham propels the narrative forward, initiating the clarification and formalization of the covenant. This direct address highlights the interpersonal dynamic and the need for clear communication in resolving disputes. **Symbolism** is profoundly present in the "seven ewe lambs." The number seven (Hebrew: _sheba'_) carries deep connotations of completeness, perfection, and oath-taking, foreshadowing the naming of Beersheba ("well of the oath" or "well of seven"). The lambs themselves symbolize a valuable offering and a tangible witness. The act of "setting by themselves" functions as a form of **visual rhetoric**, a non-verbal communication that prompts inquiry and signifies an impending formal declaration or agreement. This deliberate staging underscores the gravity and ritualistic nature of the upcoming covenant.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly simple question about livestock opens a window into profound theological and thematic truths. It underscores God's meticulous providence, guiding Abraham through complex interpersonal dynamics and ensuring the security of his family and resources, even amidst potential conflict. The establishment of this covenant, initiated by Abimelech and formalized by Abraham's witness, demonstrates the biblical emphasis on integrity, clear communication, and the importance of verifiable truth in human relationships. It reflects a divine order where peace is achieved through just agreements and mutual respect, rather than through force or deception.

* [Genesis 26:31](/genesis/26-31 "Isaac and Abimelech make a covenant")
* [Joshua 24:27](/joshua/24-27 "Joshua sets up a stone as a witness")
* [Hebrews 6:13-18](/hebrews/6-13-18 "God's unchangeable promise and oath")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Abimelech's straightforward question to Abraham in this verse offers timeless principles for navigating relationships and resolving conflicts in our own lives. It highlights the enduring importance of clear communication and the courage to ask clarifying questions rather than making assumptions. Abimelech's inquiry prevents potential misunderstanding and paves the way for a transparent agreement. Abraham's deliberate act of setting aside the lambs serves as a powerful reminder of the value of integrity and providing clear, tangible evidence or "witness" to our intentions and claims. In a world often marked by ambiguity and distrust, this narrative encourages us to be forthright in our dealings and to seek mutually agreeable solutions through open dialogue and formal commitments. It reminds us that peace and lasting relationships are built on a foundation of truth, mutual understanding, and verifiable actions.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might a simple, clarifying question prevent misunderstanding or conflict?**
* **How can you provide clearer "witness" or evidence for your intentions or claims in your relationships or professional life?**
* **What significance do you place on formal agreements or promises, and how does this story encourage you to uphold them with integrity?**

### FAQ
**Why are there seven ewe lambs specifically?**

Answer: The number seven (Hebrew: *sheba'*) holds profound symbolic meaning in ancient Near Eastern cultures and throughout the Bible, frequently associated with completeness, perfection, and the solemnization of oaths. It is linguistically linked to the Hebrew word for "to swear an oath" (*shaba'*). Thus, the seven lambs served as a tangible and symbolic witness to the binding nature of the covenant being established between Abraham and Abimelech, signifying a complete, perfect, and unbreakable agreement over the well.

**What is the significance of the place being named Beersheba?**

Answer: The place was named Beersheba [Genesis 21:31](/genesis/21-31 "The naming of Beersheba, the well of the oath") as a direct commemoration of this momentous event. "Beersheba" can be interpreted in two interconnected ways: "well of the oath" (connecting to *shaba'*, "to swear") or "well of seven" (connecting to *sheba'*, "seven"). Both interpretations underscore the solemn covenant made there, witnessed by the seven lambs, and highlight the binding nature of the agreement concerning the well, establishing a lasting memorial to the peace achieved.

**Does this story offer guidance for resolving conflicts today?**

Answer: Yes, this narrative provides timeless principles for conflict resolution that remain highly relevant. It demonstrates the critical importance of clear communication (Abimelech's direct question, Abraham's subsequent explanation), integrity (Abraham's public act of witness), and the pursuit of formal, mutually agreed-upon solutions rather than allowing disputes to escalate. It emphasizes the value of establishing clear boundaries and agreements to maintain peace, foster trust, and ensure mutual respect in all relationships, reflecting a divinely ordered approach to human interaction.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The covenant established at Beersheba, marked by Abraham's public witness and the solemn oath, serves as a powerful foreshadowing of the greater, eternal covenant God establishes with humanity through Jesus Christ. Just as Abraham secured rights to a vital well through a verifiable witness, Christ is the ultimate "well of living water" [John 4:10-14](/john/4-10-14 "Jesus offers living water to the Samaritan woman") who provides eternal spiritual sustenance. His perfect sacrifice on the cross serves as the ultimate witness and the unshakeable seal of the New Covenant [Hebrews 9:15](/hebrews/9-15 "Christ is the mediator of a new covenant"), inaugurating a relationship of grace and truth. The peace achieved between Abraham and Abimelech through a formal agreement points to Christ as our true peace [Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Christ is our peace"), who has reconciled humanity to God and broken down the dividing wall of hostility, fulfilling the promise of lasting peace, spiritual provision, and a secure relationship with God for all who believe.

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 12:26

And it shall come to pass, when your children shall say unto you, What mean ye by this service?

Genesis 33:8

And he said, What [meanest] thou by all this drove which I met? And he said, [These are] to find grace in the sight of my lord.

1 Samuel 15:14

And Samuel said, What [meaneth] then this bleating of the sheep in mine ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear?