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).