Genesis 21:30

KJV

And he said, For [these] seven ewe lambs shalt thou take of my hand, that they may be a witness unto me, that I have digged this well.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he said {H559}, For these seven {H7651} ewe lambs {H3535} shalt thou take {H3947} of my hand {H3027}, that {H5668} they may be a witness {H5713} unto me, that I have digged {H2658} this well {H875}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He answered, "You are to accept these seven female lambs from me as witness that I dug this well."

Berean Standard Bible

He replied, “You are to accept the seven ewe lambs from my hand as my witness that I dug this well.”

American Standard Version

And he said, These seven ewe lambs shalt thou take of my hand, that it may be a witness unto me, that I have digged this well.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 21:30 presents Abraham's explicit declaration to Abimelech regarding the seven ewe lambs he had set apart. This act was not merely a gift but a formal, tangible witness and undeniable proof, establishing Abraham's rightful claim to the well he had painstakingly dug, thereby solidifying his ownership of this vital water source in a land where such resources were paramount.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader narrative of [Genesis 21:22-34](/genesis/21-22-34 "The Treaty at Beer-sheba"), which details a significant encounter and subsequent covenant between Abraham and Abimelech, the Philistine king of Gerar. Prior to this, Abimelech's servants had forcibly seized a well that Abraham's servants had dug. Abraham, seeking to resolve this conflict and establish clear ownership, confronts Abimelech. The preceding verses ([Genesis 21:25-29](/genesis/21-25-29 "Abraham's complaint and Abimelech's question")) describe Abraham's complaint about the well and Abimelech's feigned ignorance, leading to Abraham's offering of a gift of sheep and oxen to Abimelech. Crucially, Abraham then sets aside seven ewe lambs, prompting Abimelech to inquire about their specific purpose in [Genesis 21:29](/genesis/21-29 "Abimelech's inquiry about the seven lambs"). Genesis 21:30 provides Abraham's definitive answer, culminating in the naming of the place Beer-sheba, meaning "well of the oath" or "well of seven," as recorded in [Genesis 21:31](/genesis/21-31 "The Naming of Beer-sheba"). This specific exchange is the linchpin of the agreement, transforming a dispute into a formal, binding treaty.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, water sources were indispensable for survival, particularly for nomadic or semi-nomadic peoples like Abraham and his household, who depended on them for their flocks, servants, and personal sustenance. Control over wells was a matter of life and death, often leading to disputes. Treaties and covenants were common mechanisms for establishing peace and defining boundaries or rights between different groups. Such agreements were frequently sealed with symbolic actions, gifts, or oaths, which served as public declarations and tangible proofs. The act of "digging" a well conferred a strong claim to ownership, but this claim often needed to be formally recognized by local authorities or other powerful figures. The presentation of animals, especially in specific numbers like seven, often carried legal and symbolic weight, signifying a binding agreement or an oath, as seen in other ancient Near Eastern treaties. The hand-to-hand transfer of the lambs further signifies a formal, accepted transaction.

* **Key Themes:** This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the theme of **property rights and ownership**, particularly concerning vital resources like water, underscoring the importance of establishing and respecting boundaries in a communal setting. The resolution of the conflict through negotiation and a formal agreement, rather than violence, emphasizes the theme of **peaceful conflict resolution** and the value of diplomacy. The use of the lambs as a "witness" points to the theme of **testimony and truth**, where tangible evidence or a public declaration serves to validate a claim. Furthermore, the number seven and the subsequent naming of Beer-sheba ("well of the oath") connect to the pervasive biblical theme of **covenant and oath-making**, illustrating how human agreements can mirror the solemnity of divine covenants, such as the covenant God made with Abraham earlier in [Genesis 15](/genesis/15 "God's Covenant with Abraham"). This episode also subtly touches upon **divine provision**, as the well represents a life-sustaining gift, and Abraham's diligent work in digging it reflects responsible **stewardship** of resources.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **said (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** H559, a primitive root; to say (used with great latitude); answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. Here, "said" indicates a formal declaration, an explicit statement of purpose and intent, not merely casual speech. It signals the gravity and legal weight of Abraham's explanation.
* **ewe lambs (Hebrew, _kibsâh'_):** H3535, or כַּבְשָׂה; feminine of כֶּבֶשׂ; a ewe; (ewe) lamb. These are young female sheep, valuable as livestock, signifying a substantial and meaningful gift. Their specific number, "seven," carries deep symbolic weight in this context, tying directly to the concept of an oath or completeness.
* **take (Hebrew, _lâqach'_):** H3947, a primitive root; to take (in the widest variety of applications); accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. The act of Abimelech "taking" the lambs from Abraham's hand signifies acceptance of the terms and acknowledgement of Abraham's claim. It transforms the symbolic gesture into a legally binding agreement, an official transfer and acceptance of a witness.
* **witness (Hebrew, _ʻêdâh'_):** H5713, feminine of עֵד in its techn. sense; testimony; testimony, witness. Compare עֵדָה. This word is central to the verse's meaning. It denotes a legal proof, a lasting sign, or a public testimony. The lambs are not merely a gift but a tangible, living testament to the truth of Abraham's claim, serving as a perpetual reminder of the agreement.
* **digged (Hebrew, _châphar'_):** H2658, a primitive root; properly, to pry into; by implication, to delve, to explore; dig, paw, search out, seek. This word emphasizes the labor and effort Abraham invested in creating the well. His act of "digging" establishes his primary claim to the resource, which the lambs then formally validate.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he said,"**: This opening phrase immediately signals Abraham's response to Abimelech's inquiry in the preceding verse. It introduces a direct and authoritative declaration, setting the stage for the explanation of the lambs' purpose. The use of "said" (H559, _ʼâmar'_) often denotes a formal or significant utterance in biblical narrative, underscoring the importance of what follows.
* **"For [these] seven ewe lambs shalt thou take of my hand,"**: Abraham specifies the exact number and type of animals—seven ewe lambs—and instructs Abimelech to "take" them directly from his hand. This action is crucial: the acceptance of the lambs by Abimelech from Abraham's hand (H3027, _yâd'_, signifying power, possession, and agency) formalizes the transaction. The number "seven" (H7651, _sheba'_) is highly symbolic, often associated with completeness, perfection, or an oath, foreshadowing the naming of Beer-sheba as "well of the oath" or "well of seven."
* **"that they may be a witness unto me,"**: This clause reveals the primary purpose of the transaction. The lambs are not merely a gift of goodwill but a tangible "witness" (H5713, _ʻêdâh'_) or testimony. By accepting them, Abimelech implicitly agrees to their function as a perpetual reminder and legal validation of Abraham's claim. This establishes a public and undeniable record of the agreement.
* **"that I have digged this well."**: This final clause clarifies what the lambs are witnessing: Abraham's sole and rightful claim to having "digged" (H2658, _châphar'_) the well. This statement asserts his prior labor and ownership, which the agreement with Abimelech now formally recognizes and secures. The well (H875, _bᵉʼêr'_) itself is the object of the dispute and the focus of the witness.

#### Literary Devices
Genesis 21:30 employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and significance. **Symbolism** is prominent, with the "seven ewe lambs" serving as a powerful symbol of a binding oath, completeness, and a formal witness. The number seven itself is deeply significant in biblical numerology, often representing divine perfection or covenantal fulfillment, directly linking to the naming of Beer-sheba ("well of the oath/seven"). The "well" itself functions as a **symbol** of life, provision, and contention, highlighting the critical nature of resources in an arid land. The phrase "take of my hand" utilizes **metonymy**, where "hand" (H3027, _yâd'_) stands for Abraham's authority, ownership, and the act of formal transfer, signifying the legal and personal nature of the transaction. The entire exchange also functions as a form of **legal language** or **formulaic speech**, characteristic of ancient Near Eastern treaty-making, where specific actions and declarations served to establish and confirm legal rights and obligations.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 21:30, while describing a seemingly mundane property dispute, is rich with theological and thematic implications. It underscores the biblical emphasis on truth, justice, and the importance of establishing clear boundaries and agreements. The concept of "witness" is paramount, reflecting God's own character as a faithful witness to His covenants and promises. This human agreement, sealed by a tangible witness, provides a microcosm of the larger divine-human covenantal relationship, where God's promises are guaranteed by His unchanging character and mighty acts. The peaceful resolution achieved through this formal testimony also highlights the biblical value of seeking peace and reconciliation, even with those outside the covenant community, demonstrating integrity and a reliance on established legal and social norms.

* [Deuteronomy 19:15](/deuteronomy/19-15 "Requirement for multiple witnesses"): This verse establishes the legal principle that a charge must be established by the testimony of "two or three witnesses," reinforcing the importance of verifiable testimony, which Abraham's "seven ewe lambs" provide in a symbolic and tangible form.
* [Hebrews 6:13-18](/hebrews/6-13-18 "God's Oath and Promise"): This passage speaks of God's oath to Abraham, which is "impossible for God to lie," serving as an unchangeable guarantee. Just as Abraham's oath was sealed by the lambs, God's promise is secured by His very nature, providing a greater, divine witness.
* [John 5:31-39](/john/5-31-39 "Jesus' Witness to Himself"): Jesus speaks of various witnesses to His identity and mission, including John the Baptist, His works, and the Scriptures. This illustrates the pervasive biblical theme of testimony and validation, connecting to the "witness" provided by the lambs in Genesis.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 21:30 offers profound insights into human relationships, conflict resolution, and the establishment of trust in any era. Abraham's proactive and transparent approach to resolving the well dispute—not through force, but through a clear, witnessed agreement—serves as a timeless model. In our own lives, whether in personal relationships, business dealings, or community interactions, the principle of establishing explicit terms and providing clear evidence or "witness" is crucial to prevent misunderstandings and foster lasting peace. This narrative encourages us to act with integrity, to honor our word, and to seek just and amicable resolutions to conflicts. Just as the well was a vital resource for Abraham's survival and prosperity, so too are clear communication and trustworthy agreements foundational for the health and flourishing of all our relationships. We are called to be people of our word, whose actions serve as a "witness" to our character and commitments, reflecting the trustworthiness of God Himself.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can we, like Abraham, proactively address potential conflicts in our relationships by establishing clear understandings and "witnesses" to our agreements?**
* **In what ways can our actions and words serve as a "witness" to our integrity and character in our daily interactions?**
* **Considering the value of the well as a vital resource, what "resources" in our lives (time, talents, finances, relationships) require clear boundaries and wise stewardship?**
* **How does the peaceful resolution in this passage challenge us to seek reconciliation and understanding rather than contention in our own disputes?**

### FAQ
**Why were exactly "seven" ewe lambs given?**

Answer: The number "seven" (Hebrew: H7651, _sheba'_) is profoundly symbolic in the Bible, frequently representing completeness, perfection, or the solemnity of an oath. In this specific context, it directly relates to the subsequent naming of the place as Beer-sheba, which means "well of the oath" or "well of seven." The seven lambs were not merely a gift but a tangible, solemn, and complete "witness" (H5713, _ʻêdâh'_) to the oath and agreement concerning Abraham's ownership of the well, signifying a fully concluded and binding covenant.

**What does it mean for the lambs to be a "witness"?**

Answer: The Hebrew word for "witness" (H5713, _ʻêdâh'_) refers to a testimony, a legal proof, or a lasting sign. By accepting the seven lambs "of my hand" (H3027, _yâd'_) from Abraham, Abimelech formally acknowledged and publicly assented to Abraham's claim that he had "digged" (H2658, _châphar'_) the well. The lambs were thus a physical, undeniable token that served as a perpetual reminder and legal validation of the agreement, preventing future disputes over the crucial water source. This act transformed a potential conflict into a peaceful and legally recognized resolution.

**Does this story have implications for property rights today?**

Answer: Yes, the story of Abraham and Abimelech at Beer-sheba underscores the timeless importance of establishing and respecting property rights, especially for vital resources. Abraham's actions demonstrate the enduring need for clear documentation or tangible evidence to prove ownership and prevent conflict. It highlights the value of formal agreements, witnesses, and public acknowledgment in securing what is rightfully one's own, promoting order and justice in society. The principle of clear title and mutual agreement remains foundational for property law and peaceful coexistence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Genesis 21:30 details a human covenant sealed by lambs to establish property rights, it profoundly foreshadows the greater, eternal covenant established through Christ. The "witness" (H5713, _ʻêdâh'_) provided by the seven lambs, validating Abraham's claim to the well, points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate and faithful "witness" (e.g., [Revelation 1:5](/revelation/1-5 "Jesus Christ, the faithful witness")), who perfectly testifies to God's truth, His character, and His covenant promises. The peace and reconciliation achieved between Abraham and Abimelech through this earthly agreement are ultimately surpassed by the profound peace and reconciliation with God that Christ secures through His blood (e.g., [Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Reconciliation through Christ's blood")), fulfilling the New Covenant. Just as the well provided life-sustaining water in an arid land, Christ offers Himself as the "living water" (e.g., [John 4:10](/john/4-10 "Jesus offers living water")), the ultimate provision for spiritual life and eternal satisfaction (e.g., [John 7:37-38](/john/7-37-38 "Rivers of living water")). His sacrifice is the perfect, once-for-all "witness" that seals God's promises to humanity, providing access to an inexhaustible source of spiritual life, sealed not by the blood of lambs, but by His own precious blood (e.g., [Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Christ's superior sacrifice")).

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

Genesis 31:52

This heap [be] witness, and [this] pillar [be] witness, that I will not pass over this heap to thee, and that thou shalt not pass over this heap and this pillar unto me, for harm.

Joshua 24:27

And Joshua said unto all the people, Behold, this stone shall be a witness unto us; for it hath heard all the words of the LORD which he spake unto us: it shall be therefore a witness unto you, lest ye deny your God.

Genesis 31:44

Now therefore come thou, let us make a covenant, I and thou; and let it be for a witness between me and thee.

Genesis 31:48

And Laban said, This heap [is] a witness between me and thee this day. Therefore was the name of it called Galeed;

Joshua 22:27

But [that] it [may be] a witness between us, and you, and our generations after us, that we might do the service of the LORD before him with our burnt offerings, and with our sacrifices, and with our peace offerings; that your children may not say to our children in time to come, Ye have no part in the LORD.

Joshua 22:28

Therefore said we, that it shall be, when they should [so] say to us or to our generations in time to come, that we may say [again], Behold the pattern of the altar of the LORD, which our fathers made, not for burnt offerings, nor for sacrifices; but it [is] a witness between us and you.