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Genesis 15:3

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
And Abram said, Behold, to me thou hast given no seed: and, lo, one born in my house is mine heir.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

And Abram said, 'Look, you have not given me any children, and someone born in my household will be my heir.'

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

Abram is expressing his disappointment to God that he still has no children, so his servant will inherit everything instead of a son.

📚 Historical Context

In the biblical narrative of Genesis, Abram is in the midst of a covenant conversation with God, who has promised him numerous descendants, but Abram remains childless and is expressing his concern. Ancient Near Eastern customs allowed for a household servant, such as Eliezer of Damascus, to be adopted as an heir if no biological children were born, reflecting the cultural importance of lineage and inheritance in that society. This moment highlights Abram's human doubt despite God's earlier promises, setting the stage for God's reaffirmation of His covenant.

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