Topical Bible: Strife: Between Abraham and Lot's Herdsmen

◄ Strife: Between Abraham and Lot's Herdsmen ►

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The strife between the herdsmen of Abraham and Lot is a significant event recorded in the Book of Genesis, illustrating the challenges of wealth, family relations, and the pursuit of peace. This episode is found in Genesis 13:1-12 and provides insight into the character and faith of Abraham, as well as the dynamics of his relationship with his nephew Lot.

Context and Background

After returning from Egypt, Abraham (then Abram) and Lot had become exceedingly wealthy, possessing large flocks, herds, and tents. Their wealth was a testament to God's blessing, yet it also became a source of tension. The land they occupied could not support both of their extensive possessions, leading to conflict between their herdsmen.

The Conflict

Genesis 13:6-7 states, "But the land could not support both of them while they stayed together, for their possessions were so great that they were unable to remain together. And there was strife between the herdsmen of Abram’s livestock and the herdsmen of Lot’s livestock. At that time the Canaanites and Perizzites were also living in the land."

The presence of the Canaanites and Perizzites in the land added to the complexity of the situation, as both Abraham and Lot needed to coexist with these peoples while managing their own resources. The scarcity of resources and the need for adequate grazing land for their flocks heightened the tension between their herdsmen.

Abraham's Response

Abraham, demonstrating wisdom and a spirit of peace, took the initiative to resolve the conflict. In Genesis 13:8-9 , he said to Lot, "Please let there be no strife between you and me, or between your herdsmen and my herdsmen. For we are brothers. Is not the whole land before you? Please separate from me. If you go to the left, I will go to the right; if you go to the right, I will go to the left."

Abraham's proposal reflects his humility and his desire to maintain family unity. By offering Lot the first choice of land, Abraham demonstrated his trust in God's provision and his commitment to peace over personal gain.

Lot's Choice

Lot chose the Jordan Valley, a region described as "well-watered everywhere, like the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt" (Genesis 13:10). This choice, however, placed Lot near the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, known for their wickedness. Lot's decision was based on the immediate appearance of prosperity, without consideration of the moral and spiritual implications.

Aftermath

Following Lot's departure, God reaffirmed His promise to Abraham, assuring him of the land's future inheritance. Genesis 13:14-17 records God's words to Abraham, promising him and his descendants the land as far as he could see. This divine reassurance underscored God's faithfulness and the blessings that come from seeking peace and trusting in His promises.

The strife between Abraham and Lot's herdsmen serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of prioritizing peace and family relationships over material wealth. Abraham's actions exemplify a godly approach to conflict resolution, characterized by humility, generosity, and faith in God's provision.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 13:6,7
And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together: for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Abraham's Four Surrenders
... In the first place, Abraham was called to give up his ... to Haran, which is about
half-way between the valley ... had multiplied, until there was a strife among their ...
//christianbookshelf.org/moody/men of the bible/i abrahams four surrenders.htm