Topical Encyclopedia The account of strife between Isaac and the herdsmen of Gerar is a significant narrative found in the Book of Genesis, illustrating themes of conflict, perseverance, and divine blessing. This episode is situated within the broader context of Isaac's life and his interactions with the Philistines, particularly during his sojourn in the land of Gerar.Background and Context Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, is a patriarch in the lineage of the Israelites. Following a famine in the land, Isaac moves to Gerar, a Philistine territory, under the direction of the LORD. The LORD appears to Isaac, reiterating the covenant made with Abraham, promising him numerous descendants and blessings (Genesis 26:1-5). The Strife Over Wells As Isaac settles in Gerar, he prospers greatly, which incites envy among the Philistines. The narrative of strife begins with the Philistines stopping up the wells that Abraham's servants had dug, filling them with earth (Genesis 26:15). This act of hostility reflects the tension between Isaac and the inhabitants of Gerar. Isaac's response to this adversity is marked by patience and persistence. He reopens the wells that had been dug in the days of his father Abraham, and his servants dig new wells. However, each time a well is dug, the herdsmen of Gerar quarrel with Isaac's herdsmen, claiming the water as their own. This leads to a series of disputes over the wells, named Esek and Sitnah, meaning "contention" and "enmity" respectively (Genesis 26:20-21). Resolution and Divine Favor Despite the ongoing strife, Isaac does not retaliate with aggression. Instead, he moves away and digs another well, which is not contested. He names this well Rehoboth, saying, "Now the LORD has given us room, and we will be fruitful in the land" (Genesis 26:22). This act of moving away from conflict and trusting in God's provision exemplifies Isaac's faith and reliance on divine guidance. The narrative reaches a resolution when Abimelech, the king of Gerar, along with his advisor Ahuzzath and the commander of his army, Phicol, visit Isaac. They acknowledge that the LORD is with Isaac and seek to make a covenant of peace with him, recognizing the blessing of God upon Isaac's life (Genesis 26:26-29). Theological Implications The strife between Isaac and the herdsmen of Gerar serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises. Isaac's experience underscores the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity and the power of peaceful resolution. The narrative also highlights the theme of divine providence, as God continues to bless Isaac despite external conflicts. Isaac's handling of the strife with the Philistines reflects a model of godly character, demonstrating humility, patience, and trust in God's provision. This account encourages believers to seek peace and rely on God's promises, even amidst challenges and opposition. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 26:20-22And the herdsmen of Gerar did strive with Isaac's herdsmen, saying, The water is ours: and he called the name of the well Esek; because they strove with him. Nave's Topical Index Library Chapter xxvi Concerning the Sons of Isaac, Esau and Jacob; of their Nativity ... Resources What does it mean that the love of many will grow cold (Matthew 24:12)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the works of the flesh? | GotQuestions.org What is the biblical significance of Beer Lahai Roi? | GotQuestions.org Strife: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Strife: An Evidence of a Carnal Spirit Strife: Appeased by Slowness to Anger Strife: Between Abraham and Lot's Herdsmen Strife: Christ, an Example of Avoiding Strife: Christians at Antioch (In Syria), About Circumcision Strife: Danger of Joining In--Illustrated Strife: Difficulty of Stopping, a Reason for Avoiding It Strife: Disciples, Over Who Could be the Greatest Strife: Evidences a Love of Transgression Strife: Excited by a Contentious Disposition Strife: Excited by Curious Questions Strife: Excited by Drunkenness Strife: Excited by Frowardness Strife: Excited by Tale-Bearing Strife: General Scriptures Concerning Strife: Herdmen of Abram and of Lot Strife: Herdmen of Gerar and of Isaac Strife: Hypocrites Make Religion a Pretence For Strife: Isaac's and Those of Gerar Strife: Israel and Judah, About David Strife: It is Honorable to Cease From Strife: Jephthah and his Brothers Strife: Jephthah and the Ephraimites Strife: Jews, Concerning Jesus Strife: Leads to Confusion and Every Evil Work Strife: Leads to Mutual Destruction Strife: Ministers should Avoid Strife: Ministers should Avoid Questions That Lead To Strife: Ministers should not Preach Through Strife: Ministers should Reprove Strife: Ministers should Warn Against Strife: Paul and Barnabas, About Mark Strife: Pharisees and Sadducees Strife: Pharisees and Sadducees, Concerning the General Resurrection Strife: Promoters of, should be Expelled Strife: Saints Kept from Tongues of Strife: Saints should Avoid Questions That Lead To Strife: Saints should do all Things Without Strife: Saints should not Act From Strife: Saints should not Walk In Strife: Saints should Praise God for Protection From Strife: Saints should Seek God's Protection From Strife: Saints should Submit to Wrong Rather than Engage In Strife: Strength and Violence of--Illustrated Strife: Temporal Blessing Embittered By Strife: The Corinthian Christians Related Terms |
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