Genesis 26:16

Old Testament Law (Torah) ASV (1901)

What does Genesis 26:16 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “And Abimelech said unto Isaac, Go from us. For thou art much mightier than we.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

And Abimelech said unto Isaac, Go from us. For thou art much mightier than we.
Genesis 26:16 — American Standard Version

Context — Genesis 26

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
16And Abimelech said unto Isaac, Go from us. For thou art much mightier than we.

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“And Abimelech said unto Isaac, go from us, etc.] Which was either said by way of advice, consulting Isaac’s good, and the peace of his own kingdom; or else by way of command, enjoining him to depart, having a secret envy to him himself, or at least was jealous of his growing power and wealth: for thou art much mightier than we; in riches or goods, as the Targum of Jonathan adds; or in number; his family being greatly increased, his servants numerous, many being born of them in his house; Abraham had three hundred and eighteen trained servants in his house, (<011414>Genesis 14:14); how many Isaac had is not certain; they must be a large number for Abimelech to fear anything from them. Some…”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification