See in Reader
1.1 KiB
Genesis 24 General Notes
Structure and formatting
Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 24:60.
Special concepts in this chapter
Intermarriage
Abraham would not allow his son to marry anyone from the people of Canaan. This is because it would cause his son to worship other gods. Intermarriage and worshiping false gods are things that frequently caused Abraham's descendants to struggle. (See: rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod)
Abraham's wealth
There are many instances recorded in this chapter which highlight Abraham's significant wealth. He owned more than 10 camels and had large amounts of gold.
Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
"Put your hand under my thigh"
Many scholars believe this is a euphemism. Putting one's hand on a man's genitals was a way to make an important oath. It represented power and progeny. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism)