Translations
Original
Notes
In this oath, Abram may have been making it clear that his God, the LORD (Yahweh), is the same as God Most High, whom Melchizedek spoke about. It is possible that Melchizedek did not know the name Yahweh.
Abram understood that accepting the king of Sodom's offer (see study note on 14:1–2) might make him an ally or subject, as Lot had been. This could put God’s promises at risk. Faith looks beyond the world’s riches to the greater blessings that God will give.
Parallels
People
Abraham: Patriarch, chosen by God to father His people LORD: Names or title used to refer to God
Places
Sodom: Wicked city destroyed by God for its sins
Glossary
Alliance Aner (Person) Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Chedorlaomer Cities of the Plain Ebla Tablets El Eshcol (Person) Genesis, Book of God, Names of Hand Kedorlaomer King’s Highway Lot Mamre (Place) Melchizedek Palestine Patriarchs, Period of the Travel
Topics
Abraham: Defeats Chedorlaomer God: Sovereign Hand: Right Hand Lifted up in Swearing Oath used in Solemnizing Covenants: Between Abraham and the King of Sodom Oaths: Antiquity of Oaths: Often Accompanied by Raising up the Hand Rulers: Abraham The Hands were Lifted up in Taking an Oath