Genesis 18:4

Old Testament Law (Torah) ASV (1901)

What does Genesis 18:4 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “let now a little water be fetched, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree:” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

let now a little water be fetched, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree:
Genesis 18:4 — American Standard Version

Context — Genesis 18

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
4let now a little water be fetched, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree:

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“Let a little water, I pray you, be fetched, and wash your feet, etc.] Which was very refreshing to travellers in hot countries, who walked barefoot or in sandals; and this he proposes to be done by one of his servants, whose business it was, only desires they would give him leave to order it, (<092541>1 Samuel 25:41); and so it was usual in other countries, and in later times, for servants to fetch water to wash the hands and feet of guests f1114 : and rest yourselves under the tree; before the tent door, under which doubtless were seats to sit down upon, where they might rest their weary limbs; it is very probable this was an oak tree, and which, and a turpentine tree the ancient writers…”
Read attributed excerpt →
Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“- The Visit of the Lord to Abraham 2. השׂתחיה vayı̂śtachû “bow,” or bend the body in token of respect to God or man. The attitude varies from a slight inclination of the body to entire prostration with the forehead touching the ground. 6. סאה se'ah a “seah,” about an English peck, the third part of an ephah. The ephah contained ten omers. The omer held about five pints. This chapter describes Abraham’s fellowship with God. On the gracious assurance of the Redeemer and Vindicator, “Fear not, I am thy shield and thy exceeding great reward,” he ceased to fear, and believed. On the solemn announcement of the Conqueror of evil and the Quickener of the dead, “I am God Almighty; walk before me…”
Read attributed excerpt →

Related study paths

Sources and verification