And Abimelech said unto Abraham, What mean these seven ewe lambs which thou hast set by themselves?
And Abimelech said to Abraham, 'What do these seven female lambs mean that you have set apart by themselves?'
The writer is showing King Abimelech asking Abraham about seven female sheep that Abraham had separated from the rest of his flock for a special purpose.
📚 Historical Context
This conversation takes place at Beersheba, where Abraham and King Abimelech of the Philistines are making a covenant to resolve disputes over water rights. Abraham had separated seven ewe lambs as witnesses to establish his rightful claim to a well he had dug, which Abimelech's servants had seized. This was a common ancient Near Eastern practice where animals or objects served as formal witnesses to agreements.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.