Genesis 21:33

KJV

¶ And [Abraham] planted a grove in Beersheba, and called there on the name of the LORD, the everlasting God.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Abraham planted {H5193} a grove {H815} in Beersheba {H884}, and called {H7121} there on the name {H8034} of the LORD {H3068}, the everlasting {H5769} God {H410}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Avraham planted a tamarisk tree in Be'er-Sheva, and there he called on the name of ADONAI, the everlasting God.

Berean Standard Bible

And Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there he called upon the name of the LORD, the Eternal God.

American Standard Version

And Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beer-sheba, and called there on the name of Jehovah, the Everlasting God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Following the peaceful resolution of a land dispute with Abimelech, Genesis 21:33 records Abraham's profound act of worship in Beersheba. By planting a grove and publicly invoking the name of "the LORD, the everlasting God," Abraham not only marked the location but also affirmed his deep, enduring faith in God's eternal nature and His unwavering covenant fidelity, establishing a lasting memorial to divine sovereignty and provision.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes a significant narrative arc in [Genesis 21](/genesis/21 "Genesis 21 - Isaac's Birth, Hagar's Expulsion, and Abimelech's Covenant"). It immediately follows the account of Isaac's birth, Hagar and Ishmael's expulsion, and, most directly, the covenant established between Abraham and Abimelech concerning a well at Beersheba. The naming of Beersheba, meaning "well of the oath" or "well of seven," is detailed in [Genesis 21:31](/genesis/21-31 "Genesis 21:31 - Naming of Beersheba"), highlighting the resolution of conflict and the establishment of peace through an oath. Abraham's subsequent act of worship in verse 33 serves as a capstone to this period of settling and securing his place in the land, transitioning from conflict resolution to spiritual consecration. It demonstrates his consistent practice of building altars and calling upon the Lord, as seen earlier in his journey (e.g., [Genesis 12:7-8](/genesis/12-7-8 "Abraham builds an altar at Shechem and Bethel")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the planting of trees, particularly long-lived varieties like the tamarisk (often identified as the "grove" or *eshel* here), was a common practice to mark significant locations, provide shade, and serve as a meeting place or a memorial. Such an act by Abraham in Beersheba would signify his settled presence and claim to the land, reinforcing the agreement made with Abimelech. Furthermore, "calling on the name of the LORD" was a public act of worship and invocation, often associated with covenant-making or significant divine encounters. It was a declaration of allegiance and reliance upon the deity, a practice deeply embedded in the religious life of the patriarchs. The recognition of God as "the everlasting God" (*El Olam*) reflects a profound theological understanding emerging within a polytheistic environment, contrasting the transient nature of human affairs with the eternal steadfastness of the one true God.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 21:33 contributes to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader Pentateuch. It reinforces the theme of **covenant faithfulness**, both God's unwavering commitment to Abraham and Abraham's consistent response of faith and worship. The establishment of a dedicated place for worship underscores the theme of **sacred space** and the importance of specific locations for encountering God, a concept that will evolve into the tabernacle and temple. The declaration of God as "the everlasting God" introduces the theme of **God's eternal nature and immutability**, a foundational theological truth that provides stability amidst human transience and uncertainty. This concept of God's unchanging character is vital for understanding the reliability of His promises throughout salvation history, as highlighted in passages like [Psalm 90:2](/psalms/90-2 "Psalm 90:2 - God's Eternity"). Finally, the verse subtly touches upon the theme of **peace and resolution**, as Abraham's act of worship follows the successful resolution of a dispute over resources, suggesting that true peace is found in acknowledging God's ultimate sovereignty.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **planted (Hebrew, _nâṭaʻ'_):** From H5193, a primitive root meaning "to strike in, i.e. fix; specifically, to plant (literally or figuratively); fastened, plant(-er)." This word signifies a deliberate, permanent action. Abraham wasn't just passing through; he was establishing a fixed presence, both physically in the land and spiritually through an act of dedication. The planting of the *eshel* (tamarisk tree) was a long-term investment, symbolizing stability and a lasting memorial.
* **called (Hebrew, _qârâʼ'_):** From H7121, a primitive root meaning "to call out to (i.e. properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications); bewray (self), that are bidden, call (for, forth, self, upon), cry (unto), (be) famous, guest, invite, mention, (give) name, preach, (make) proclaim(-ation), pronounce, publish, read, renowned, say." In this context, it denotes a public, solemn invocation, an act of worship, prayer, and declaration of allegiance to God. It implies a personal and communal acknowledgment of God's sovereignty.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** From H3068, (the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God; Jehovah, the Lord. This is God's covenant name, Yahweh, emphasizing His personal, relational, and self-existent nature. By calling upon "the LORD," Abraham invoked the God who had entered into a covenant relationship with him, revealing His character and making promises.
* **everlasting (Hebrew, _ʻôwlâm'_):** From H5769, properly, concealed, i.e. the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e. (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial (especially with prepositional prefix) always; alway(-s), ancient (time), any more, continuance, eternal, (for, (n-)) ever(-lasting, -more, of old), lasting, long (time), (of) old (time), perpetual, at any time, (beginning of the) world ([phrase] without end). This term, when combined with "God" (*El*), forms *El Olam*, signifying God's timelessness, His existence from eternity past to eternity future, and His unchanging character and promises. It provides a profound theological anchor for Abraham's faith.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Abraham planted a grove in Beersheba,"**: This clause describes Abraham's physical action of establishing a permanent marker in the newly secured territory of Beersheba. The "grove" (Hebrew *eshel*) was likely a tamarisk tree, known for its longevity and deep roots, symbolizing stability and a lasting presence. This act signifies not just a practical land claim but also the creation of a dedicated space.
* **"and called there on the name of the LORD,"**: This phrase highlights Abraham's spiritual action. "Calling on the name of the LORD" is a recurring motif in Genesis, signifying a public act of worship, prayer, and invocation of God's covenant name, Yahweh. It demonstrates Abraham's intimate relationship with God and his public declaration of allegiance and dependence. This act transforms the physical space into a sacred one, consecrated to God.
* **"the everlasting God."**: This final phrase reveals the profound theological understanding Abraham had of the God he worshipped. By addressing God as *El Olam*, "the everlasting God," Abraham acknowledged God's eternal nature, His existence beyond the constraints of time, and His unchanging faithfulness. This title provides a powerful contrast to the temporary nature of human agreements and life itself, grounding Abraham's faith in an immutable divine reality.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Symbolism** is prominent, with the planting of the "grove" (likely a tamarisk tree) symbolizing permanence, stability, and a lasting memorial. Its deep roots and longevity reflect the enduring nature of God and His covenant. The act of "calling on the name of the LORD" is a form of **invocation** and **public declaration**, serving to consecrate the space and publicly affirm Abraham's faith. The specific title, "the everlasting God," is an example of **theological naming**, revealing a deeper understanding of God's attributes. This **epithet** emphasizes God's eternal nature, providing a stark contrast to the transient human experience and the temporary nature of earthly agreements. The entire verse functions as a **culmination** of the preceding narrative, providing a spiritual resolution to the physical and relational conflicts, cementing Abraham's identity as a worshipper of the one true, eternal God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 21:33 stands as a pivotal declaration of God's eternal nature and Abraham's enduring faith. Abraham's act of planting a long-lived tree and publicly calling upon "the LORD, the everlasting God," underscores a profound theological truth: God's existence transcends time, and His character and promises are immutable. This recognition provides a stable foundation for faith, assuring believers that divine covenants are not subject to the vicissitudes of human history or the limitations of mortality. It highlights that true worship flows from a deep understanding of God's timeless sovereignty and His unwavering commitment to His people, fostering a sense of security and trust in His unfailing love.

* [Psalm 90:2](/psalms/90-2 "Psalm 90:2 - God's Eternity and Sovereignty")
* [Malachi 3:6](/malachi/3-6 "Malachi 3:6 - God's Unchanging Nature")
* [Hebrews 13:8](/hebrews/13-8 "Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ is the Same")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Abraham's actions in Genesis 21:33 offer a powerful blueprint for contemporary faith. In a world characterized by constant flux, uncertainty, and fleeting trends, the recognition of God as *El Olam*—the everlasting God—provides an unshakeable anchor for our souls. This truth invites us to root our lives not in temporary circumstances or human promises, but in the immutable character and eternal promises of God. Just as Abraham planted a lasting memorial and publicly called upon the Lord, we are called to cultivate intentional spaces and times for worship, both individually and communally. Our faith should be a public testimony, demonstrating our reliance on a God who is always present, always faithful, and always sovereign. This verse challenges us to consider how our lives, our actions, and our declarations reflect the eternal nature of the God we serve, inviting others to encounter the one true source of lasting hope and stability.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God as "the everlasting God" (*El Olam*) impact your sense of security and hope in a rapidly changing world?**
* **In what ways can you, like Abraham, create "groves" or dedicated spaces and times in your life for intentional worship and calling upon the name of the LORD?**
* **How might your public actions and declarations of faith serve as a testimony to God's eternal nature for those around you?**
* **What specific promises of God, knowing He is "everlasting," bring you the most comfort and assurance today?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of Abraham planting a "grove"?**

Answer: The Hebrew word *eshel* (H815), translated as "grove" in the KJV, more accurately refers to a tamarisk tree. Planting such a tree was a customary act in the ancient Near East to mark a significant place, provide shade, and serve as a memorial or a dedicated spot for worship and assembly. It signified Abraham's settled presence in the land and his act of consecration, turning a practical marker into a sacred space for calling upon the Lord. The choice of a tamarisk, known for its longevity and deep roots, also symbolized the permanence of Abraham's commitment and the enduring nature of his covenant with God.

**What does "the everlasting God" (El Olam) mean?**

Answer: "The everlasting God" translates the Hebrew *El Olam* (H410 for *El* and H5769 for *Olam*). *El* is a general term for God, denoting power and deity, while *Olam* conveys the idea of eternity, perpetuity, or a very long duration, extending into both the past and the future. This title emphasizes God's timelessness, His unchanging nature, and His enduring faithfulness. It signifies that God exists outside of time, is not subject to change, and His covenant promises are eternal and reliable. This attribute provides immense comfort, as seen in passages like [Psalm 90:2](/psalms/90-2 "Psalm 90:2 - God's Eternity"), which declares God's existence from "everlasting to everlasting."

**Why does Abraham "call on the name of the LORD"?**

Answer: "Calling on the name of the LORD" (H7121 *qârâʼ* and H3068 *Yᵉhôvâh*) is a recurring phrase in Genesis (e.g., [Genesis 12:8](/genesis/12-8 "Abraham builds an altar and calls on the Lord")), signifying an act of public worship, prayer, and invocation of God's presence and power. It implies a deep personal relationship and a declaration of allegiance. For Abraham, it was a way to publicly acknowledge God's sovereignty, express his faith, and dedicate himself and the land to the God who had made an everlasting covenant with him. This act was a profound expression of his covenant relationship, a public testimony to God's identity and his own reliance upon Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Abraham's worship of *El Olam*, the everlasting God, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. Christ is not merely a manifestation of the eternal God, but He is Himself eternal, co-existent with the Father from before all time, as declared in [John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word was God") and [John 8:58](/john/8-58 "John 8:58 - Before Abraham was, I AM"). He is the very embodiment of God's unchanging nature and faithful promises, for in Him "all the promises of God are yes and in Him Amen" ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - All God's Promises are 'Yes' in Christ")). Through His atoning work on the cross, Christ, the perfect mediator, enables all believers to truly "call on the name of the LORD" and gain access to the eternal Father ([Ephesians 2:18](/ephesians/2-18 "Ephesians 2:18 - Access to the Father through Christ")). He establishes a new and everlasting covenant through His blood ([Hebrews 13:20](/hebrews/13-20 "Hebrews 13:20 - The Everlasting Covenant through Christ's Blood")), offering eternal life and an unshakeable hope to all who believe. Thus, the eternal God whom Abraham worshipped is fully revealed and made accessible in Jesus Christ, the Alpha and the Omega, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever ([Hebrews 13:8](/hebrews/13-8 "Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ is the Same")).

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

1 Timothy 1:17

Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, [be] honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Isaiah 40:28

Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, [that] the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? [there is] no searching of his understanding.

Psalms 90:2

Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou [art] God.

Jeremiah 10:10

But the LORD [is] the true God, he [is] the living God, and an everlasting king: at his wrath the earth shall tremble, and the nations shall not be able to abide his indignation.

Genesis 12:8

And he removed from thence unto a mountain on the east of Bethel, and pitched his tent, [having] Bethel on the west, and Hai on the east: and there he builded an altar unto the LORD, and called upon the name of the LORD.

Romans 16:26

But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:

Genesis 4:26

And to Seth, to him also there was born a son; and he called his name Enos: then began men to call upon the name of the LORD.