Genesis 22:22

KJV

And Chesed, and Hazo, and Pildash, and Jidlaph, and Bethuel.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Chesed {H3777}, and Hazo {H2375}, and Pildash {H6394}, and Jidlaph {H3044}, and Bethuel {H1328}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Kesed, Hazo, Pildash, Yidlaf and B'tu'el.

Berean Standard Bible

Chesed, Hazo, Pildash, Jidlaph, and Bethuel.”

American Standard Version

and Chesed, and Hazo, and Pildash, and Jidlaph, and Bethuel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 22:22 is a concise verse concluding a genealogical list of Nahor's children, Abraham's brother, specifically naming Chesed, Hazo, Pildash, Jidlaph, and most notably, Bethuel. This seemingly simple enumeration is crucial, subtly advancing the divine plan by introducing the lineage from which Rebekah, Isaac's future wife and a pivotal figure in the covenant line, would emerge.

### CONTEXT
Following the profound event of Abraham's near-sacrifice of Isaac (the Akedah) and God's powerful reaffirmation of the Abrahamic covenant in [Genesis 22:15-18](/genesis/22-15 "God's Covenant Reaffirmed to Abraham"), the narrative shifts. [Genesis 22:20](/genesis/22-20 "Nahor's Genealogy Begins") initiates an update on Abraham's extended family through his brother Nahor, listing his children by Milcah. This specific verse completes that list, strategically introducing Bethuel, whose family will play a vital role in the unfolding patriarchal story by providing Isaac's future wife, thereby ensuring the continuation of the promised seed.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 22:22 lists five of Nahor and Milcah's children, completing the genealogy begun in [Genesis 22:20](/genesis/22-20 "Nahor's Children Introduced"). The names are as follows:

* Chesed
* Hazo
* Pildash
* Jidlaph
* Bethuel

While the specific meanings of names like Chesed ("kindness" or "strength"), Hazo ("vision"), Pildash ("iron flame"), and Jidlaph ("he weeps") are less critical to the immediate narrative, their inclusion underscores the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies. These lists are not mere historical records but divinely inspired accounts that establish continuity, confirm identity, and trace the fulfillment of God's promises through specific family lines. The most significant name in this verse is **Bethuel**, who is later identified as the father of Rebekah ([Genesis 24:15](/genesis/24-15 "Rebekah Identified as Bethuel's Daughter")). His inclusion here, seemingly incidental, is a subtle yet powerful demonstration of divine providence, laying the groundwork for the next crucial step in the Abrahamic covenant: Isaac's marriage and the continuation of the promised seed. This verse highlights how God orchestrates seemingly minor details to achieve His grand redemptive purposes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
* **Divine Providence in Detail:** Even in a seemingly mundane list of names, God's sovereign hand is evident. The inclusion of Bethuel demonstrates God's meticulous foresight in preparing the specific lineage from which Isaac's wife would come, ensuring the continuation of the covenant line.
* **Significance of Genealogy:** Biblical genealogies are not merely historical records but theological statements. They establish continuity, confirm identity, and meticulously trace the fulfillment of God's generational promises, linking individuals to the overarching divine plan.
* **Preparation for Covenant Fulfillment:** This verse acts as a crucial bridge, linking God's promises of numerous descendants to Abraham with the practical, human steps God orchestrates to bring those promises to fruition, specifically through the family of Bethuel and the future marriage of Isaac and Rebekah.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 22:22 reminds believers that God's grand plan often unfolds through seemingly ordinary details and individuals. It teaches us to recognize God's meticulous foresight, as He prepares necessary lineages and orchestrates events long before their apparent need. No detail in God's Word, or in His providential care over our lives, is insignificant; even a list of names is integral to understanding the grand narrative of redemption. This verse also highlights the profound interconnectedness of Scripture, showing how seemingly small verses link major events with future developments, demonstrating God's continuous weaving of individual lives into His overarching purposes.

### FAQ
**Why are genealogies important in the Bible?**

Answer: Genealogies serve multiple purposes in the Bible: they establish historical continuity, confirm identity and lineage (especially for priestly or royal lines), demonstrate the fulfillment of God's promises (e.g., to Abraham regarding descendants), and trace the path of the promised Messiah. They show God working through specific families and generations to accomplish His redemptive plan.

**What is the significance of Bethuel's name in this verse?**

Answer: Bethuel is the most significant name in Genesis 22:22 because he is identified in [Genesis 24:15](/genesis/24-15 "Rebekah's Family") as the father of Rebekah, who becomes Isaac's wife. His inclusion here, immediately after the Akedah, subtly sets the stage for the next major development in the patriarchal narrative—Isaac's marriage—and the continuation of the Abrahamic covenant line.

**Does this verse imply that God's plan relies on human actions?**

Answer: While God's plan is sovereign and does not *rely* on human actions in the sense of being dependent on them, He often chooses to work *through* human actions and choices. This verse illustrates divine providence orchestrating human relationships and lineages to fulfill His purposes, showing His faithfulness in preparing the way for the covenant line to continue.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Genesis 22:22 is a genealogical list, its Christ-centered fulfillment lies in its contribution to the unbroken lineage that ultimately leads to Jesus Christ. The meticulous preservation and continuation of Abraham's covenant line, ensured by God's providence in preparing for Isaac's marriage through Bethuel's family, highlights God's faithfulness to His promise of a "seed" through whom all nations would be blessed ([Genesis 22:18](/genesis/22-18 "All Nations Blessed Through Abraham's Seed")). This divine orchestration of seemingly minor details underscores the certainty of God's redemptive plan, culminating in Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant and the true "seed" through whom salvation comes to all humanity.

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.