“Unto the place of the altar, which he had made there at the first: and there Abram called on the name of the LORD.”
Context:To understand the significance of Genesis 13:4, it is important to consider the broader context of the chapter. In Genesis 12, God had called Abram (later known as Abraham) to leave his country, relatives, and father’s house, and to go to a land that God would show him. Abram obeyed and embarked on a journey with his wife Sarai (later known as Sarah) and his nephew Lot.
The Setting:In Genesis 13, Abram and Lot, along with their households and possessions, return from Egypt to the land of Canaan. Due to their increased wealth and the land’s inability to support both of their flocks, disputes arise between Abram’s herdsmen and Lot’s herdsmen.
Separation:Recognizing the need for resolution, Abram proposes a solution to his nephew Lot. In verses 8-9, Abram suggests they separate from each other, allowing Lot to choose whichever portion of the land he desires. Abram’s selflessness and desire for peace are evident in his words: “Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren” (Genesis 13:8, KJV).
Abram’s Generosity:In Genesis 13:10-11, Lot lifts up his eyes and sees the well-watered Jordan Valley, choosing it for himself. Lot separates from Abram and moves his tents towards Sodom, a city known for its wickedness. Abram, on the other hand, remains in the land of Canaan.
Returning to the Altar:Genesis 13:4 focuses on Abram’s response after the separation from Lot. It states that Abram returns to the place of the altar, which he had previously built. This altar is mentioned in Genesis 12:8, where Abram built it as an act of worship and to call upon the name of the Lord.
Calling on the Name of the Lord:Abram’s act of calling on the name of the Lord signifies his commitment to seek and worship God. The altar represents a place of encounter with the divine, where Abram expresses his devotion and reliance on God’s guidance and provision.
