Translations
Original
Notes
My lord: The Hebrew text uses ’adonay, which always refers to God. In Hebrew tradition, people said this word when they saw the letters of God's holy name ("Yahweh") in the text. The text here might use ’adonay instead of the more common ’adoni to show this was the angel of the Lord, meaning the Lord himself (see study note on 16:7). We do not know if Abraham knew who his visitors were at first. But by the end of the story, he knew he had been talking with God.
Abraham received his visitors as very important guests, perhaps realizing that they were messengers from God.
The Lord's visit to Abraham set the time for Isaac's birth. The three visitors were probably the Lord and two angels (see study note on 16:7). Abraham welcomed the visitors peacefully and generously, which contrasted with the chaos and corruption in Sodom (chapter 19).
Sharing a meal was important for making or confirming covenants. When God was ready to fulfill the covenant promise, he personally shared a meal with Abraham. Fellowship with God has always included a communal meal (see Exodus 24:9–11; Matthew 26:17–30 // Luke 22:7–38; Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 11:20–34).
Glossary
Abraham Angel Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Ebla Tablets Genesis, Book of Hebron (Place) Hospitality Mamre (Place) Patriarchs, Period of the Peter, Second Letter of Prayer Presence of God Sodom and Gomorrah
Topics
Abraham: Angels Appear To Communion: Abraham Condescension of God: Enters Into Covenant with Abraham God: Appearances of To Abraham Hospitality: Abraham Hospitality: Abraham to the Angels Isaac: The Miraculous Son of Abraham Mamre: A Plain Near Hebron: Entertains Three Angels, and is Promised a Son Servants: The Term often Used to Express Humility Travellers: Generally Rested at Noon Travellers: Generally Treated with Great Hospitality