Genesis 26:22

KJV

And he removed from thence, and digged another well; and for that they strove not: and he called the name of it Rehoboth; and he said, For now the LORD hath made room for us, and we shall be fruitful in the land.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he removed {H6275} from thence, and digged {H2658} another {H312} well {H875}; and for that they strove {H7378} not: and he called {H7121} the name of it {H8034} Rehoboth {H7344}; and he said {H559}, For now {H6258} the LORD {H3068} hath made room {H7337} for us, and we shall be fruitful {H6509} in the land {H776}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He went away from there and dug another well, and over that one they didn't quarrel. So he called it Rechovot [wide open spaces] and said, "Because now ADONAI has made room for us, and we will be productive in the land."

Berean Standard Bible

He moved on from there and dug another well, and they did not quarrel over it. He named it Rehoboth and said, “At last the LORD has made room for us, and we will be fruitful in the land.”

American Standard Version

And he removed from thence, and digged another well; and for that they strove not: and he called the name of it Rehoboth; and he said, For now Jehovah hath made room for us, and we shall be fruitful in the land.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 26:22 marks a pivotal moment in Isaac's journey, illustrating God's faithful provision and the breakthrough of peace after a prolonged period of contention over essential resources. This verse encapsulates Isaac's patient endurance and trust in divine leading, culminating in a profound declaration of God's sovereign favor and the promise of future fruitfulness in the land, signifying a transition from scarcity and conflict to abundance and tranquility.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a narrative arc in [Genesis 26](/genesis/26 "Genesis 26 - Isaac's Sojourn in Gerar") that highlights Isaac's experiences in the land of the Philistines. Following a famine, Isaac is instructed by God to remain in the land ([Genesis 26:1-6](/genesis/26-1-6 "God's Command to Isaac to Stay in the Land")), where he prospers greatly, inciting the envy of the Philistines ([Genesis 26:12-16](/genesis/26-12-16 "Isaac's Prosperity and Philistine Envy")). The immediate preceding verses detail Isaac's repeated efforts to secure water sources: he reopens wells dug by his father Abraham that the Philistines had stopped up ([Genesis 26:18](/genesis/26-18 "Isaac Reopens Abraham's Wells")), then digs new wells, Esek ("Contention") and Sitnah ("Opposition"), both of which lead to disputes with local herdsmen ([Genesis 26:20-21](/genesis/26-20-21 "Wells of Esek and Sitnah")). [Genesis 26:22](/genesis/26-22 "Isaac at Rehoboth") thus represents the culmination of Isaac's persistent, peace-seeking actions, where divine intervention finally grants him uncontested access to a vital resource.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, particularly in semi-arid regions like Canaan, water was an indispensable commodity, directly tied to survival, prosperity, and the ability to sustain livestock. Control over wells often signified control over territory and resources, making well-digging and ownership a frequent source of conflict between nomadic or semi-nomadic groups and settled populations. The Philistines, as an established people in Gerar, viewed Isaac's success and his access to water as a threat to their own resources and sovereignty. Isaac's repeated relocation rather than engaging in armed conflict reflects a cultural practice of seeking peace and avoiding unnecessary bloodshed, while also highlighting the immense effort and investment required to dig and maintain wells in such an environment.
* **Key Themes:** [Genesis 26:22](/genesis/26-22 "Isaac at Rehoboth") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Genesis. It powerfully illustrates **Divine Provision and Faithfulness**, demonstrating God's unwavering commitment to bless and protect His covenant people, even in the face of human opposition. Isaac's journey also underscores the theme of **Perseverance in Faith**, as he consistently trusts God's guidance and continues to seek provision despite repeated setbacks. The naming of Rehoboth highlights **God's "Making Room"**, a concept that extends beyond physical space to spiritual liberation and flourishing. Furthermore, the verse reinforces the **Covenant Promises** made to Abraham and now passed to Isaac, particularly the promise of numerous descendants and flourishing in the land, as seen in Isaac's declaration of future fruitfulness, echoing promises found in [Genesis 17:6](/genesis/17-6 "God's Promise of Fruitfulness to Abraham").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
After enduring persistent disputes over water sources, Isaac once again demonstrates remarkable patience and a commitment to peace by removing himself from the contentious area. He diligently digs yet another well, and significantly, this time "they strove not," marking a clear cessation of opposition. This peaceful acquisition allows Isaac to name the well Rehoboth, a name rich in meaning, and to declare God's active hand in their newfound prosperity and future fruitfulness.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **removed (Hebrew, _ʻâthaq'_):** This primitive root signifies "to remove (intransitive or transitive) figuratively, to grow old; specifically, to transcribe." In this context, it emphasizes Isaac's deliberate act of moving away from the area of conflict, a physical and strategic withdrawal from contention. His repeated removal highlights his non-confrontational approach and reliance on God's guidance rather than human might.
* **Rehoboth (Hebrew, _Rᵉchôbôwth'_):** This name, meaning "broad places," "wide-open spaces," or "room," is derived from the plural of the Hebrew word for "streets" or "open spaces." It perfectly encapsulates Isaac's experience, signifying a transition from constricted, contentious environments (Esek, Sitnah) to an expansive, peaceful one where he and his household could flourish unhindered. It symbolizes relief, liberation, and the blessing of God making ample room for His people.
* **made room (Hebrew, _râchab'_):** This primitive root means "to broaden (intransitive or transitive, literal or figurative); be an en-(make) large(-ing), make room, make (open) wide." Isaac's declaration, "the LORD hath made room for us," directly connects the name Rehoboth to divine action. It is not merely that Isaac found an open space, but that the LORD actively created or provided that space, removing obstacles and enabling expansion. This highlights God's sovereign intervention and active providence in the lives of His faithful.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he removed from thence, and digged another well":** This clause describes Isaac's persistent and peaceable action. Despite two previous wells leading to strife, Isaac does not give up. His act of "removing from thence" signifies his commitment to avoiding conflict, choosing to seek new ground rather than engage in endless disputes over the previously dug wells. The phrase "digged another well" underscores his perseverance and reliance on God's provision through his own diligent labor.
* **"and for that they strove not":** This is a pivotal statement, marking a distinct turning point. Unlike Esek and Sitnah, this well is acquired without contention. This cessation of strife is presented as a direct result of Isaac's patient withdrawal and, implicitly, as a divine intervention. It signifies that God has finally cleared the way, allowing Isaac to find peace and security in his endeavors.
* **"and he called the name of it Rehoboth":** The naming of the well is an act of commemoration and theological declaration. "Rehoboth," meaning "broad places" or "room," perfectly encapsulates the experience of liberation from constriction and conflict. This name serves as a tangible memorial of God's faithfulness in providing an unhindered space for Isaac to thrive.
* **"and he said, For now the LORD hath made room for us":** Isaac's spoken declaration immediately attributes the breakthrough to the LORD (Yahweh). This is a profound act of worship and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. He understands that this peaceful acquisition is not mere chance or the result of human strategy, but a direct, active intervention of divine favor. It underscores his recognition of God as the ultimate provider and protector.
* **"and we shall be fruitful in the land":** This concluding phrase connects the immediate provision of space and peace with the broader covenant promises made to Abraham and his descendants. The "making room" is not an end in itself but a means to an end: the fulfillment of the promise of prosperity, numerous descendants, and flourishing in the land. It signifies that God's blessing at Rehoboth will enable Isaac's household to multiply and thrive, fulfilling their destiny as a blessed nation.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative of [Genesis 26:22](/genesis/26-22 "Isaac at Rehoboth") effectively employs **Symbolism** and **Contrast**. The wells themselves are potent symbols: they represent life, sustenance, and prosperity in a barren land, and their contested ownership symbolizes the ongoing struggle for existence and the challenges faced by God's covenant people. The naming of the wells—Esek ("Contention"), Sitnah ("Opposition"), and finally Rehoboth ("Broad Places" or "Room")—symbolically charts Isaac's journey from conflict to peace, from constriction to expansion, and from human opposition to divine favor. This progression highlights God's ultimate ability to provide and protect. Furthermore, the passage is built on **Contrast**: the repeated strife over the previous wells stands in stark contrast to the peaceful acquisition of Rehoboth. This juxtaposition emphasizes the divine breakthrough, underscoring that the cessation of conflict was not due to Isaac's changed tactics but to God's sovereign intervention, making room where there was none before.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 26:22 serves as a powerful testament to God's unwavering providence and faithfulness to His covenant people. Isaac's journey from repeated conflict to finding "room" at Rehoboth illustrates that God actively intervenes in the lives of those who trust Him, providing for their needs and clearing obstacles, even when human efforts seem to yield only strife. This narrative encourages believers to cultivate patience and perseverance in the face of adversity, reminding them that God's timing and methods of provision are perfect. It also underscores the biblical principle of pursuing peace, as Isaac's willingness to relocate rather than engage in prolonged contention ultimately led to divine breakthrough. The "making room" and "fruitfulness" at Rehoboth are direct manifestations of God's covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants, signifying that God's blessings are not merely about survival but about leading His people into expansive places of abundance and flourishing.

* [Psalm 18:19](/psalms/18-19 "God Making Room for David")
* [Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "Living Peaceably with All")
* [Genesis 17:6](/genesis/17-6 "God's Promise of Fruitfulness to Abraham")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 26:22 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, encouraging us to cultivate patience and perseverance when faced with life's inevitable conflicts and seasons of scarcity. Isaac's repeated efforts to dig wells, coupled with his decision to prioritize peace over protracted strife by repeatedly moving until God provided a place of unhindered flourishing, challenges us to consider our own responses to opposition. Are we willing to step back from contention, trusting that God might open new doors and provide a breakthrough in unexpected ways? His immediate and humble acknowledgment that "the LORD hath made room for us" serves as a powerful reminder to attribute our successes, periods of peace, and opportunities for growth to God's sovereign hand. This passage calls us to trust in His faithfulness to provide, to make room for us, and to enable us to be spiritually fruitful, even after enduring seasons of struggle and opposition.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you currently experiencing "contention" or "opposition," similar to Isaac's wells of Esek and Sitnah?**
* **How might Isaac's patient perseverance and willingness to "remove from thence" inspire you to seek peace or trust God's timing in your own challenging circumstances?**
* **How can you more intentionally acknowledge and attribute God's "making room" for you in your life, recognizing His divine providence in moments of peace and abundance?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the name Rehoboth in Isaac's journey?**

Answer: The name Rehoboth (Hebrew for "broad places" or "room") is profoundly significant because it marks a climactic turning point in Isaac's narrative. After enduring repeated conflicts and being driven from two previous wells (Esek and Sitnah), Rehoboth symbolizes a divine breakthrough. It represents God literally "making room" for Isaac and his household to thrive without opposition, fulfilling promises of blessing and fruitfulness after a period of intense struggle and constriction. It is a testament to God's faithfulness and a tangible sign of His favor.

**How does Isaac's declaration, "the LORD hath made room for us," relate to God's providence?**

Answer: Isaac's declaration is a direct and powerful acknowledgment of God's providence. It signifies that he recognized God's active, sovereign, and guiding hand in his circumstances. After his own diligent efforts and patient endurance, the ultimate cessation of strife and the provision of an unhindered well were attributed not to chance, human strategy, or the absence of Philistine herdsmen, but to the direct will and faithfulness of the LORD. This declaration highlights God's active involvement in the lives of His people, orchestrating events to fulfill His promises and provide for their needs, as seen throughout the narrative of [Genesis 26](/genesis/26 "Genesis 26 - Isaac's Sojourn in Gerar").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaac's experience at Rehoboth, where the LORD "made room" for him to be fruitful after a period of contention, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate "room" and abundant life found in Jesus Christ. While Isaac found physical space and peace in the land of Canaan, Christ offers spiritual "broad places" of freedom and rest from the contention of sin, the condemnation of the Law, and the opposition of spiritual adversaries. Through His atoning work on the cross, Christ has made room for humanity to enter into a new covenant of peace with God ([Romans 5:1](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Peace with God through Faith")), granting true spiritual fruitfulness—the fruit of the Spirit—that no earthly opposition can ultimately hinder ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")). He is the true source of living water, providing ultimate rest and expansion for all who believe, leading them into an eternal inheritance and a life of divine abundance that transcends any earthly well or territory, fulfilling the promise of a life "more abundantly" ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - The Abundant 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.

Cross-References

Exodus 1:7

And the children of Israel were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and multiplied, and waxed exceeding mighty; and the land was filled with them.

Genesis 17:6

And I will make thee exceeding fruitful, and I will make nations of thee, and kings shall come out of thee.

Psalms 118:5

I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, [and set me] in a large place.

Genesis 41:52

And the name of the second called he Ephraim: For God hath caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction.

Genesis 28:3

And God Almighty bless thee, and make thee fruitful, and multiply thee, that thou mayest be a multitude of people;

Psalms 18:19

He brought me forth also into a large place; he delivered me, because he delighted in me.

Psalms 4:1

¶ To the chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm of David. Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me [when I was] in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer.