Genesis 26:33

KJV

And he called it Shebah: therefore the name of the city [is] Beersheba unto this day.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he called {H7121} it Shebah {H7656}: therefore the name {H8034} of the city {H5892} is Beersheba {H884} unto this day {H3117}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So he called it Shiv'ah [oath, seven], and for this reason the name of the city is Be'er-Sheva [well of seven, well of an oath] to this day.

Berean Standard Bible

So he called it Shibah, and to this day the name of the city is Beersheba.

American Standard Version

And he called it Shibah: therefore the name of the city is Beer-sheba unto this day.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 26:33 concludes the narrative of Isaac's peaceful resolution with Abimelech, the Philistine king, by formally establishing the name of the city as Beersheba, the "Well of the Oath." This verse encapsulates themes of divine provision, the establishment of peace through covenant, and the continuity of patriarchal legacy, as Isaac re-establishes a significant site first named by his father, Abraham, solidifying its identity as a place of divine encounter and covenant faithfulness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 26 details Isaac's sojourn in Gerar during a famine, his deception regarding Rebekah, and the subsequent conflicts with the Philistines over wells. The immediate context leading to [Genesis 26:33](/genesis/26-33 "Genesis 26:33 - The Naming of Beersheba") begins with Isaac's relocation to Beersheba after repeated disputes over wells (vv. 18-22). There, the Lord appears to him, reaffirming the Abrahamic covenant and promising His presence and blessing (vv. 23-24). This divine assurance prompts Abimelech, the Philistine king, along with his chief captain Phichol and his friend Ahuzzath, to journey to Isaac, acknowledging God's favor upon him and seeking a covenant of peace (vv. 26-29). Isaac hosts them, and they swear an oath of non-aggression (vv. 30-31). Crucially, on the very day this oath is sworn, Isaac's servants report finding fresh water in a newly dug well (v. 32), directly preceding Isaac's naming of this well "Shebah," which then gives the city its enduring name, Beersheba.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, particularly in semi-arid regions like the Negeb where Beersheba is located, water sources were vital for survival and often a cause of intense conflict. Wells represented wealth, sustenance, and territorial rights. The practice of digging and owning wells was a significant aspect of land tenure and economic stability. Covenants, or treaties, were formal agreements, often accompanied by oaths and sacrifices, establishing peace and defining relationships between individuals or groups. The presence of witnesses and the naming of a place to commemorate the oath were common cultural practices, lending permanence and legal weight to the agreement. The interaction between Isaac and Abimelech reflects the complex diplomatic and resource-driven dynamics between nomadic pastoralists (like Isaac) and settled agricultural/urban populations (like the Philistines).
* **Key Themes:** [Genesis 26](/genesis/26 "Genesis 26 - Isaac's Sojourn") is rich with themes that culminate in this verse. **Divine Provision and Faithfulness** are central, as God repeatedly blesses Isaac with prosperity and water, even amidst Philistine opposition. The Lord's direct appearance to Isaac at Beersheba (cf. [Genesis 26:24](/genesis/26-24 "God's Promise to Isaac at Beersheba")) underscores God's active involvement. **Covenant and Peacemaking** are prominent, demonstrated by Isaac's willingness to seek peace and Abimelech's recognition of God's blessing on Isaac, leading to a solemn oath. The naming of Beersheba as the "Well of the Oath" highlights the significance of this covenant. Furthermore, the chapter emphasizes the **Continuity of the Patriarchal Covenant**, as God reaffirms His promises to Isaac, mirroring those made to Abraham, and Isaac re-establishes a significant site previously associated with his father (cf. [Genesis 21:31](/genesis/21-31 "Abraham's Naming of Beersheba")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
[Genesis 26:33](/genesis/26-33 "Genesis 26:33 - The Naming of Beersheba") succinctly records Isaac's act of naming the newly discovered well "Shebah," which in turn solidified the name of the patriarchal city as Beersheba. This act is not merely a geographical designation but a profound theological statement, marking the culmination of a period of strife and the establishment of peace and divine blessing.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **called (Hebrew, _qârâʼ'_):** This primitive root means "to call out to," "address by name," or "to name." In this context, Isaac's act of "calling" the well "Shebah" is a deliberate act of naming, imbuing the place with meaning and memorializing the event. It signifies an authoritative act of designation, linking the well's identity directly to the preceding oath.
* **Shebah (Hebrew, _Shibʻâh'_):** This word is derived from the Hebrew for "seven." While "seven" often denotes completeness or perfection, in this specific context, the narrative explicitly links it to the preceding "oath" (Hebrew, _shevu'ah_). The phonetic similarity between _Shibʻâh_ (seven) and _shevu'ah_ (oath) creates a wordplay that reinforces the meaning of Beersheba as the "Well of the Oath," rather than solely the "Well of Seven." Isaac's choice of this name directly references the covenant sworn with Abimelech.
* **Beersheba (Hebrew, _Bᵉʼêr Shebaʻ'_):** This compound word literally means "well of an oath." It is formed from _beʼer_ (well) and _shebaʻ_ (oath/seven). The name solidifies the identity of the location as a place where a solemn covenant was made. Its enduring nature "unto this day" emphasizes its historical and theological significance as a site of divine encounter and covenant faithfulness for generations.
* **day (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** This term refers to a literal day, a period of time, or even an age. In the phrase "unto this day," it serves as an editorial note, indicating that the name "Beersheba" persisted from Isaac's time up to the time the Genesis account was written or compiled. It underscores the historical continuity and the lasting impact of the events described.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he called it Shebah":** This clause describes Isaac's direct action of naming the well. The naming is not arbitrary but deeply significant, occurring immediately after the discovery of water and the swearing of the oath with Abimelech. Isaac's choice of "Shebah" (related to "seven" and "oath") intentionally connects the well to the covenant of peace just established, marking it as a memorial of divine provision and human reconciliation.
* **"therefore the name of the city [is] Beersheba":** This phrase explains the consequence of Isaac's naming of the well. The well's name, "Shebah," combined with "Be'er" (well), becomes the enduring name for the entire settlement that grew around it. This highlights how significant events, particularly those involving divine intervention and covenant, shaped the identity and nomenclature of places in ancient Israel. The city's name thus serves as a perpetual reminder of the oath sworn there.
* **"unto this day":** This is a common editorial phrase in the Pentateuch, indicating the continued existence or relevance of a place, custom, or name from the time of the narrated events up to the time of the narrator/audience. It authenticates the historical account and emphasizes the lasting legacy of Isaac's actions and God's faithfulness at this specific location. It suggests that Beersheba remained a significant and recognized place with this name for centuries.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices. **Etiology** is central, as the verse explains the origin of the name "Beersheba," linking it directly to the historical event of Isaac's oath and the discovery of the well. This etiological naming provides a theological justification for the place's significance. There is also a subtle **Wordplay** between "Shebah" (seven) and "shevu'ah" (oath), which enriches the meaning of Beersheba as the "Well of the Oath," emphasizing the covenantal aspect over a numerical one. The phrase "**unto this day**" functions as an **Anachronism** or **Editorial Gloss**, a common feature in historical narratives that connects the ancient past to the contemporary reality of the audience, lending credibility and continuity to the account. This device underscores the enduring legacy of the patriarchal narratives.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 26:33 stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering faithfulness and sovereign provision, even in the face of human conflict and uncertainty. It demonstrates how God orchestrates circumstances—from the timely discovery of water to the recognition of His favor by an outsider king—to bring about peace and fulfill His covenant promises. The naming of Beersheba, the "Well of the Oath," transforms a physical location into a theological marker, signifying a place where God's presence was affirmed, covenants were established, and His people were blessed. It reinforces the biblical principle that God blesses those who walk in His ways and seek peace, providing for their needs in tangible and miraculous ways.

* [Genesis 21:31](/genesis/21-31 "Abraham's Naming of Beersheba")
* [Psalm 34:14](/psalms/34-14 "Seek Peace and Pursue It")
* [Hebrews 11:9](/hebrews/11-9 "By Faith Abraham Sojourned")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative culminating in Genesis 26:33 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. Isaac's journey from contention over vital resources to the establishment of covenant peace, marked by God's evident provision, encourages us to prioritize reconciliation and trust in God's perfect timing for our blessings. In a world often characterized by strife and competition, Isaac's example reminds us that pursuing peace, even with those who may have wronged us, is a divine calling. It demonstrates a profound reliance on God's ultimate vindication and supply, rather than resorting to endless conflict. The immediate discovery of water after the oath serves as a powerful reminder that God not only provides for our physical needs but also affirms our righteous actions and blesses our peacemaking efforts. We are called to embody this spirit of peace, trusting that God will provide for us as we seek to live in harmony, echoing the New Testament call to live peaceably with all people (cf. [Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "Live Peaceably with All")).

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Isaac's approach to conflict resolution, culminating in the covenant at Beersheba, challenge my own tendencies when faced with disputes?**
* **In what areas of my life am I struggling with "dry wells" (lack of provision or peace), and how can I trust God to provide "living water" in His perfect timing?**
* **What "oaths" or commitments have I made, and how can I ensure they are honored in a way that reflects God's faithfulness and brings lasting peace?**
* **How can I be a "peacemaker" in my relationships and community, recognizing that God often blesses such efforts with tangible provision and affirmation?**

### FAQ
**Why is the name Beersheba significant in the Bible?**

Answer: Beersheba, meaning "Well of the Oath," is profoundly significant as a recurring patriarchal site where pivotal covenants were made and God repeatedly appeared to Abraham and Isaac, reaffirming His promises. It represents a place of divine provision, peace established through solemn agreements, and the enduring continuity of the Abrahamic covenant across generations. It served as a spiritual and geographical anchor for the patriarchs.

**Did Abraham and Isaac name Beersheba for the same reason?**

Answer: While both Abraham ([Genesis 21:31](/genesis/21-31 "Abraham Names Beersheba")) and Isaac named or reaffirmed Beersheba after an oath with an Abimelech concerning a well, the specific circumstances differed. Abraham's oath was primarily about the ownership and rights to a specific well, while Isaac's oath was a broader covenant of peace and non-aggression after a period of significant conflict over multiple wells. However, both instances underscore the meaning "Well of the Oath," solidifying the site's identity as a place of covenant and divine faithfulness.

**What does the discovery of water immediately after the oath symbolize?**

Answer: The immediate discovery of fresh water after the oath in [Genesis 26:32](/genesis/26-32 "Isaac's Servants Find Water") symbolizes God's divine affirmation and abundant provision. In a land where water was scarce and a source of conflict, this miraculous timing demonstrates God's blessing upon Isaac, validating the covenant of peace and assuring Isaac of His presence and faithfulness in a tangible, life-sustaining way. It signifies that God honors righteous peacemaking and provides for those who trust in Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The themes of covenant, peace, and divine provision inherent in [Genesis 26:33](/genesis/26-33 "Genesis 26:33 - The Naming of Beersheba") find their ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Just as Isaac established peace through a covenant at the "Well of the Oath" and found physical provision, Christ is the ultimate source of true peace and the Mediator of a new and better covenant (cf. [Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Christ, the Mediator of a Better Covenant")). He is the "living water" (cf. [John 4:10-14](/john/4-10-14 "Jesus Offers Living Water")) who provides eternal satisfaction and reconciliation with God, far surpassing the physical provision of water at Beersheba. Through His sacrificial death, Christ became our peace (cf. [Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Christ is Our Peace")), breaking down the wall of hostility and bringing us into an everlasting covenant relationship with God (cf. [Hebrews 9:15](/hebrews/9-15 "Christ, Mediator of the New Covenant")). Believers, through faith in Him, enter into this covenant of peace and receive abundant spiritual provision, finding their ultimate "Well of the Oath" in the finished work of Christ.

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 21:31

Wherefore he called that place Beersheba; because there they sware both of them.

Genesis 26:28

And they said, We saw certainly that the LORD was with thee: and we said, Let there be now an oath betwixt us, [even] betwixt us and thee, and let us make a covenant with thee;