Devine Scripture

Genesis 21:24

What does Genesis 21:24 mean?

A plain-English look at Genesis 21:24 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Genesis 21:24 means

Abraham straightforwardly agreed to Abimelech's request, stating, 'I will swear.' This simple affirmation indicates his willingness to enter into a covenant with Abimelech, demonstrating his commitment to living peacefully alongside his neighbors. Abraham's swift consent sets the stage for the formal covenant-making process, implying his readiness to establish good relations, though he first addresses a point of contention that must be resolved.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And Abraham said, I will swear.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And Abraham said, I will swear.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And Abraham said, I will swear.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And Abraham said, I will give you my oath.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And Abraham saith, `I--I do swear.'

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And Abraham said: I will swear.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And Abraham said, I will swear.

Context

This verse shows Abraham's immediate acceptance of Abimelech's proposal to swear an oath after understanding the terms in verse 23. This quick agreement signal's Abraham's intention to establish a peaceful relationship. However, this acceptance is immediately followed by Abraham raising a point of contention, indicating that even in covenant-making, prior grievances must be addressed.

v.23now therefore swear unto me here by God that thou wilt not deal falsely with me, nor with my son, nor with my son’s son: but according to the kindness that I have done unto thee, thou shalt do unto me, and to the land wherein thou hast sojourned.

v.24This passage

v.25And Abraham reproved Abimelech because of the well of water, which Abimelech’s servants had violently taken away.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Genesis 14:13

    And there came one that had escaped, and told Abram the Hebrew: now he dwelt by the oaks of Mamre, the Amorite, brother of Eshcol, and brother of Aner; and these were confederate with Abram.

  • Romans 12:18

    If it be possible, as much as in you lieth, be at peace with all men.

  • Hebrews 6:16

    For men swear by the greater: and in every dispute of theirs the oath is final for confirmation.

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