Genesis 26:25

KJV

And he builded an altar there, and called upon the name of the LORD, and pitched his tent there: and there Isaac's servants digged a well.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he builded {H1129} an altar {H4196} there, and called {H7121} upon the name {H8034} of the LORD {H3068}, and pitched {H5186} his tent {H168} there: and there Isaac's {H3327} servants {H5650} digged {H3738} a well {H875}.

Complete Jewish Bible

There he built an altar and called on the name of ADONAI. He pitched his tent there, and there Yitz'chak's servants dug a well.

Berean Standard Bible

So Isaac built an altar there and called on the name of the LORD, and he pitched his tent there. His servants also dug a well there.

American Standard Version

And he builded an altar there, and called upon the name of Jehovah, and pitched his tent there: and there Isaac’s servants digged a well.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 26:25 profoundly illustrates Isaac's faithful and holistic response to God's renewed covenant promises, establishing a foundational place of worship and dwelling in Beer-sheba. His deliberate actions—building an altar, publicly invoking the name of the LORD, pitching his tent, and securing a vital water source—collectively symbolize his deep devotion, unwavering trust in divine provision, and the seamless integration of spiritual life with the practicalities of daily existence, echoing and continuing the spiritual legacy of his father, Abraham.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 26:25 marks a pivotal moment in Isaac's narrative, following a period of significant challenge and divine intervention. The immediate preceding verses (Genesis 26:23-24) describe Isaac's journey from Gerar, where he faced contention over water rights, to Beer-sheba. Crucially, verse 24 recounts a direct appearance of the LORD to Isaac, reaffirming the Abrahamic covenant promises of blessing, numerous offspring, and land possession, specifically stating, "Fear not, for I am with thee, and will bless thee, and multiply thy seed for my servant Abraham's sake." Isaac's actions in verse 25 are thus presented as his immediate, devoted response to this personal divine encounter and the renewed assurance of God's covenant faithfulness, establishing a sacred and settled presence in the land promised to his forefathers.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, particularly for nomadic or semi-nomadic peoples like the patriarchs, water sources were paramount for survival, livestock, and establishing any form of permanent settlement. Wells were not merely practical necessities but often symbols of prosperity, peace, and divine favor, making conflicts over them common (as seen earlier in [Genesis 26:15-22](/genesis/26-15-22 "Isaac's Conflicts Over Wells")). Building an altar was a customary act of worship, sacrifice, and commemoration of divine encounters, signifying dedication and covenant relationship. Pitching a tent indicated an intention to dwell, while "calling upon the name of the LORD" was a profound act of public invocation, declaration of allegiance, and seeking of God's presence and guidance, often associated with covenant renewal or significant life events.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several major themes central to the book of Genesis and the patriarchal narratives. It powerfully demonstrates **God's covenant faithfulness and provision**, as He not only reaffirms His promises to Isaac but also enables him to find a secure and abundant water source after previous struggles. Isaac's actions highlight the theme of **worship and devotion as a primary response** to God's grace, mirroring the practices of his father, Abraham, and emphasizing the **continuity of patriarchal piety**. Furthermore, the simultaneous acts of building an altar (spiritual) and pitching a tent and digging a well (practical) underscore the theme of **integrating faith into all aspects of daily life**, showing that spiritual devotion is not separate from, but foundational to, one's physical dwelling and sustenance. This holistic approach to life under God's blessing is a recurring motif throughout the patriarchal narratives, from [Abraham's journey](/genesis/12 "Abraham's Call and Journey") to [Jacob's return](/genesis/35 "Jacob's Return to Bethel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Altar (Hebrew, _mizbêach'_ H4196):** Derived from a root meaning "to sacrifice," a _mizbêach_ was a raised structure, typically of earth or unhewn stones, used for offering sacrifices and engaging in worship. Isaac's construction of an altar here signifies a deliberate act of consecration, gratitude, and communal worship, establishing a sacred space dedicated to the LORD. It marks a place of encounter with God and an acknowledgment of His presence and provision.
* **Called (Hebrew, _qârâ'_ H7121):** This primitive root means "to call out to," "to address by name," or "to proclaim." When used in the phrase "called upon the name of the LORD," it signifies more than a casual utterance. It denotes a public, formal, and deeply personal act of invocation, prayer, and identification with the covenant God, YHWH. It implies a seeking of God's presence, a declaration of dependence, and a public testimony to His sovereignty and faithfulness.
* **Well (Hebrew, _bᵉʼêr'_ H875):** From a root meaning "to bore" or "to open," a _bᵉʼêr_ refers to a pit, specifically a well. In the arid ancient Near East, a well was an indispensable source of water, representing life, sustenance, and the ability to settle. The successful digging of a well by Isaac's servants, especially after previous conflicts, symbolizes God's practical provision, blessing, and the peace that accompanies His presence. It signifies the security and prosperity necessary for dwelling in the land.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he builded an altar there":** This was Isaac's first recorded action upon settling in Beer-sheba, signifying his immediate and primary response of worship and gratitude to God. Altars served as places for sacrifice, prayer, and commemoration of divine encounters. Building an altar established a sacred space, marking the spot as dedicated to God and acknowledging His presence and faithfulness. This act echoes the consistent practice of his father, [Abraham, who similarly built altars](/genesis/12-7-8 "Abraham builds altars at Shechem and Bethel") at significant junctures of his journey, demonstrating the continuity of patriarchal faith and devotion.
* **"and called upon the name of the LORD":** This profound phrase (Hebrew: _qârâ' b'shem YHWH_) indicates a public and formal act of worship, invocation, and identification with the covenant God, YHWH (the LORD). It implies a deep, personal, and relational connection, a declaration of dependence, devotion, and a seeking of God's presence and guidance. It is an act of prayer, praise, and public testimony to God's sovereignty and faithfulness, signifying a profound spiritual commitment that goes beyond mere utterance.
* **"and pitched his tent there":** This action signifies Isaac's intention to dwell and establish a home in Beer-sheba. Tents were the typical dwellings of nomadic patriarchs, representing their temporary earthly sojourn. By combining the domestic act of pitching his tent with the spiritual act of building an altar, Isaac demonstrates the principle of integrating faith into daily life, making his dwelling a place centered on God's presence and worship. It shows that his settlement was not merely for physical comfort but was grounded in his relationship with God.
* **"and there Isaac's servants digged a well":** The digging of a well was a vital practical necessity in the arid ancient Near East, symbolizing God's practical provision and blessing. After previous conflicts over water sources (see [Genesis 26:15-22](/genesis/26-15-22 "Isaac's Conflicts Over Wells")), the ability to dig and secure a well without further contention signifies God's protection and the fulfillment of His promise to make Isaac prosperous and to bless him in the land. The well, which would later be associated with the name "Beer-sheba" (meaning "well of the oath" or "well of seven"), became a permanent and essential resource, confirming God's faithfulness in providing for Isaac's physical needs alongside his spiritual ones.

#### Literary Devices
Genesis 26:25 effectively employs **Symbolism** and **Juxtaposition** to convey its rich meaning. The **altar** symbolizes worship, covenant, and the sacred space of divine encounter, while the **tent** symbolizes dwelling, earthly sojourn, and the domestic sphere. The **well** symbolizes life, sustenance, and divine provision. The juxtaposition of these elements—the spiritual act of building an altar and calling on God, alongside the practical acts of pitching a tent and digging a well—highlights the integrated nature of Isaac's faith. His spiritual devotion is not separate from his daily life but is its very foundation. This verse also exhibits **Repetition** of the word "there," emphasizing the specific location of Beer-sheba as a place of both spiritual establishment and physical security, a divinely appointed place of rest and provision after a period of wandering and conflict.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 26:25 stands as a powerful testament to the holistic nature of God's covenant relationship with humanity, demonstrating how spiritual devotion and practical living are inextricably linked under divine blessing. Isaac's immediate response to God's renewed promise is to establish a place of worship, illustrating that prioritizing God and acknowledging His sovereignty is the foundational act for all other endeavors. This passage underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant, providing not only spiritual assurance but also tangible provision (the well) in fulfillment of His word. It beautifully portrays the integration of faith into the fabric of daily life, where one's home and livelihood are centered on God's presence, continuing the rich spiritual legacy passed down through generations of patriarchs.

* [Genesis 12:7-8](/genesis/12-7-8 "Abraham builds altars and calls on the LORD")
* [Psalm 116:17](/psalms/116-17 "I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the LORD.")
* [Hebrews 11:9-10](/hebrews/11-9-10 "By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 26:25 offers enduring lessons for believers today, underscoring the vital importance of making God the absolute foundation of our lives. Isaac's immediate response to divine blessing was worship, reminding us to prioritize our relationship with God above all else, even amidst the practical demands and anxieties of daily life. Just as Isaac secured his physical needs by digging a well, he first secured his spiritual foundation by building an altar and calling upon the Lord. This encourages us to integrate our faith into every aspect of our existence, making our homes, workplaces, and daily activities spaces where God is honored, sought, and acknowledged as the ultimate provider. Recognizing that God provides not only spiritually but also practically for our needs, as seen in the well's provision after previous struggles, we are called to trust in His faithful supply for all our needs, knowing that He is our unfailing source. Isaac's actions at Beer-sheba represent a moment of peace, prosperity, and profound worship, illustrating the blessings that flow from a life fully committed to God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Isaac's immediate act of worship after God's promise challenge or affirm your own priorities when receiving blessings or guidance?**
* **In what practical ways can you "build an altar" and "pitch your tent" in your daily life, integrating spiritual devotion with your home and work?**
* **Considering Isaac's struggles over wells, how does his eventual peaceful provision at Beer-sheba encourage you to trust God's provision in your own areas of scarcity or conflict?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Isaac building an altar and digging a well in the same place?**

Answer: The juxtaposition of building an altar (a spiritual act) and digging a well (a practical act) highlights the holistic nature of God's provision and Isaac's faith. The altar signifies his spiritual dependence and worship, acknowledging God as the source of all blessings and His covenant faithfulness, as seen in [Genesis 26:24](/genesis/26-24 "God's Promise to Isaac at Beer-sheba"). The well represents God's tangible and practical provision for physical needs, essential for life and settlement in an arid land. Together, they demonstrate that true prosperity and peace come from integrating spiritual devotion with practical diligence, recognizing God as the provider for both soul and body. This unified approach shows that Isaac's life was wholly centered on God.

**What does "called upon the name of the LORD" imply beyond simple prayer?**

Answer: The phrase "called upon the name of the LORD" (Hebrew: *qârâ' b'shem YHWH*) is a profound expression of worship and covenant relationship, extending far beyond merely speaking God's name in prayer. It signifies a public invocation, a declaration of allegiance, and a seeking of God's presence and power. It implies a deep, personal, and relational connection, acknowledging God's sovereignty and identifying oneself as His worshiper. This act often accompanied significant life events or covenant renewals, marking a moment of profound spiritual commitment and dependence, as seen historically with [Abraham](/genesis/12-8 "Abraham calls on the name of the LORD") and later with the people of Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaac's experience in [Genesis 26:25](/genesis/26-25 "Isaac's Worship and Provision at Beer-sheba") powerfully foreshadows the ultimate peace, provision, and worship found in Jesus Christ. Just as Isaac found rest and abundant water after conflict and wandering, Christ is our true "well of the oath," the living water that eternally quenches spiritual thirst and brings everlasting life, as He declared to the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well in [John 4:10-14](/john/4-10-14 "Jesus offers living water"). The altar Isaac built, a place of sacrifice and communion, points directly to Christ as the ultimate and perfect sacrifice, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, through whom we can truly "call upon the name of the LORD" and draw near to God in worship and reconciliation ([Hebrews 13:10-16](/hebrews/13-10-16 "Jesus our Altar and Sacrifice")). Our "tent" or earthly dwelling, like Isaac's, is made secure and meaningful when centered on Christ, who is our true home, our peace, and the fulfillment of all God's covenant promises, providing both spiritual sustenance and practical guidance for our journey through the wilderness of this world ([Colossians 2:9-10](/colossians/2-9-10 "In Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily")). In Christ, the integrated life of worship, dwelling, and divine provision finds its perfect embodiment and eternal reality.

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 13:18

Then Abram removed [his] tent, and came and dwelt in the plain of Mamre, which [is] in Hebron, and built there an altar unto the LORD.

Psalms 116:17

I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the LORD.

Genesis 12:7

And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the LORD, who appeared unto him.

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.

Genesis 13:4

Unto the place of the altar, which he had made there at the first: and there Abram called on the name of the LORD.

Exodus 17:15

And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovahnissi:

Genesis 22:9

And they came to the place which God had told him of; and Abraham built an altar there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar upon the wood.