Ge 21:22-34

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Treaty with Abimelech

(Gen 21:22-34)

Abraham had settled in the south of Canaan in Abimelech’s territory and at Abimelech’s invitation (see Gen 20:15).

Abimelech, however, was still wary of Abraham and fearful of the God whom Abraham worshipped. He suggested that Abraham and he make a treaty that would guarantee good relations between them (Gen 21:22-24).

Abraham agreed to this, but at the same time he forced Abimelech to agree to return to him a well that Abimelech’s herdsmen claimed as theirs.

Abimelech publicly bound himself to the agreement by accepting from Abraham seven lambs as a witness (Gen 21:25-34).

The place where the well was located became known as Beersheba, and Abraham later settled there (see Gen 22:19).