Genesis 12:14

¶ And it came to pass, that, when Abram was come into Egypt, the Egyptians beheld the woman that she [was] very fair.

And it came to pass, that, when Abram {H87} was come {H935} into Egypt {H4714}, the Egyptians {H4713} beheld {H7200} the woman {H802} that she was very {H3966} fair {H3303}.

When Avram entered Egypt, the Egyptians did notice that the woman was very beautiful.

So when Abram entered Egypt, the Egyptians saw that the woman was very beautiful.

And it came to pass, that, when Abram was come into Egypt, the Egyptians beheld the woman that she was very fair.

Commentary

Genesis 12:14 (KJV): "¶ And it came to pass, that, when Abram was come into Egypt, the Egyptians beheld the woman that she [was] very fair."

Context

This verse occurs during a pivotal moment in the life of Abram (later Abraham), soon after God called him to leave his homeland of Ur of the Chaldees and go to a land that He would show him. God had made grand promises to Abram, including making him a great nation and blessing those who blessed him. However, a severe famine struck the land of Canaan, compelling Abram to descend into Egypt for sustenance. It was upon entering Egypt that Abram, out of fear for his own life, instructed his beautiful wife, Sarai, to pose as his sister.

Key Themes

  • Sarai's Remarkable Beauty: The verse highlights Sarai's extraordinary physical attractiveness, which was evident even in her advanced age (she was 65 at this time, as indicated by later verses). Her beauty was so striking that it immediately caught the attention of the Egyptians, leading to the unfolding events.
  • Human Fear and Deception: Abram's decision to present Sarai as his sister stemmed from a fear that the Egyptians would kill him to take his wife. This act of deception reveals a momentary lapse in faith, despite God's recent and powerful promises of protection and blessing. It underscores the human tendency to rely on cunning rather than divine provision in times of crisis.
  • Divine Oversight and Protection: Although not explicitly stated in this verse, the subsequent narrative demonstrates God's continued watchfulness over Abram and Sarai. Even in the midst of Abram's flawed actions, God intervenes to protect His covenant people and fulfill His purposes. This foreshadows God's faithfulness even when His servants falter.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "fair" is yapha (יָפָה), meaning "beautiful," "goodly," or "handsome." It emphasizes a striking physical attractiveness. The phrase "beheld the woman that she [was] very fair" conveys that her beauty was immediately obvious and remarkable, drawing the attention of those who saw her. There's no complex linguistic nuance beyond the simple, direct observation of her beauty.

Practical Application

This passage serves as a powerful reminder that even individuals chosen by God can experience moments of fear and doubt, leading to decisions that are not aligned with faith. Abram, the father of faith, acted out of self-preservation. Yet, God's plan and protection prevailed. This encourages believers today to:

  • Trust God in Adversity: Rather than resorting to fear-driven schemes, we are called to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even when circumstances are dire, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6.
  • Recognize Human Imperfection: The Bible honestly portrays its heroes with their flaws, showing that God uses imperfect people to accomplish His perfect will. This offers grace and hope for our own shortcomings.
  • Witness God's Faithfulness: Despite Abram's failings, God remained faithful to His covenant and protected him and Sarai, eventually leading to the birth of Isaac and the continuation of the promised lineage (Genesis 21:2). This highlights God's unwavering commitment to His promises.

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Cross-References

  • Genesis 3:6 (2 votes)

    ¶ And when the woman saw that the tree [was] good for food, and that it [was] pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make [one] wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.

  • Matthew 5:28 (2 votes)

    But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

  • Genesis 6:2 (2 votes)

    That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they [were] fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose.

  • Genesis 39:7 (2 votes)

    ¶ And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me.