Hebrew Text · Translation · Interlinear · Discourse Structure

The Book of Genesis, Chapter 22בראשית 22

Each verse opens with the running Hebrew, an English translation, and a discourse note (its connective, relation, and role in the argument). Below follows the word-by-word breakdown in six tiers: gloss, case/state or parsing, syntax, semantic force, and a lexical note.

Case Nominative Genitive Dative Accusative Vocative Verb (no case) Indeclinable

Discourse notes head each verse: relation · connective · clause-flow. Indentation marks prominence — flush-left = main line of argument; indented = supporting / subordinate material.

Theme

Abraham's long schooling in promise reaches its most severe and paradoxical test here. Divine command, paternal obedience, threatened loss, substituted sacrifice, oath-confirmed blessing, and providential naming are bound together in a single concentrated ascent. Abraham is commanded to offer Isaac, the very son through whom the promise has been named, so the trial presses obedience and faith directly against the visible form of covenant fulfillment. The narrative moves with remarkable restraint: Abraham rises early, speaks little, and continues toward Moriah while father and son walk together under the weight of unspoken tension. At the climax, the angel of YHWH stops the act, the ram is given in Isaac's place, and the place is named in terms of divine seeing and provision. The movement then widens from the mountain back into covenant history through the sworn reaffirmation of blessing and the genealogy that introduces Rebekah's line. The binding of Isaac, the revelation of substitution, and the testing through which Abraham's fear of God is publicly disclosed are all gathered here into a renewed swearing of the promise.

Translation & textual notes

The Hebrew base text here follows the Masoretic Text in the Leningrad tradition as represented by the Westminster Leningrad Codex / MorphHB diplomatic stream imported from OSHB; distinctively copyrighted apparatus from BHS or BHQ is not reproduced. Among the most theologically charged chapters in Genesis, this scene requires careful handling at several points. Verse 1 explicitly states that God tested Abraham; the verb נסה must retain the sense of proving or testing rather than tempting to evil. Verse 2 intensifies the command through the stacked appositions 'your son, your only one, whom you love, Isaac,' and the force of the progression should be preserved rather than compressed away. The command 'go for yourself' echoes earlier decisive calls in Abraham's story and helps frame this as a culminating journey of obedience. The land of Moriah in verse 2 is itself historically and interpretively important, especially in later biblical reception. Verse 5's 'we will worship and return to you' should be left in its full verbal form without prematurely deciding how much Abraham understands at that moment. Verse 6's note that the wood is placed upon Isaac and verse 8's 'God will see/provide for himself the lamb' are central to the narrative's slow buildup. Verse 9 gives the binding itself tersely in the verb ויעקד, from which the later designation Aqedah is drawn. Verse 12's declaration 'now I know that you fear God' must be read in the narrative sense of demonstrated, public proof rather than divine ignorance. Verse 13's ram offered 'instead of his son' is crucial and should retain its substitutionary force. Verse 14's יהוה יראה depends on the rich semantic field of seeing, appearing, and provision, and the accompanying saying about the mountain of YHWH should be preserved with its layered wordplay. In verses 16-18 the promise is reaffirmed under divine oath, a rare and weighty formula in Genesis. The closing genealogy in verses 20-24 is not miscellaneous appendix alone; it prepares the next movement of the patriarchal narrative by introducing Rebekah. Versification follows the MT.

1

וַיְהִ֗י אַחַר֙ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה וְהָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים נִסָּ֖ה אֶת אַבְרָהָ֑ם וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֔יו אַבְרָהָ֖ם וַיֹּ֥אמֶר הִנֵּֽנִי

And it happened after these things that God tested Abraham and said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am."

Test announced: God addresses Abraham under the sign of proving faithfulnessוַיְהִ֗י
Word-by-word analysis· 13 words
וַיְהִ֗יand it happenedconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (narrative opener)→ Wayyiqtol: opens new narrative episodeהָיָה (H1961) 'to be, happen'; וַיְהִי formulaic temporal opener marking a new narrative unit.
אַחַר֙afterprep · אַחַר (H310)Temporal prepositionאַחַר (H310) 'after, behind'; temporal prep marking sequence after prior events of ch 21.
הַדְּבָרִ֣יםthe thingsart + N m pl abs · דָּבָר (H1697)Object of prep אַחַרדָּבָר (H1697) 'word, thing, matter'; here pl = events; root דבר 'to speak/act'.
הָאֵ֔לֶּהtheseart + dem pron c pl · אֵלֶּה (H428)Attributive demonstrativeאֵלֶּה (H428) 'these'; demonstrative pointing to events narrated in prior chapters.
וְהָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔יםand Godconj וְ + art + N m pl abs · אֱלֹהִים (H430)Subject of נִסָּהאֱלֹהִים (H430) plural form, singular sense; God of Israel; article stresses his identity as the one who tests.
נִסָּ֖הtestedPiel perf 3ms · נָסָה (H5254)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Perfective: completed decisive act of testingנָסָה (H5254) 'to test, prove, try'; Piel intensive: proving through ordeal; never tempting to sin.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks definite direct object; untranslated in English.
אַבְרָהָ֑םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Direct object of נִסָּהאַבְרָהָם (H85) 'Abraham, father of multitude'; the patriarch whose faith is publicly proved.
וַיֹּ֣אמֶרand he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say, speak'; standard speech verb introducing the divine address to Abraham.
אֵלָ֔יוto himprep אֶל + 3ms suffix · אֶל (H413)Directional prepositional phraseאֶל (H413) 'to, toward'; with 3ms suffix marks Abraham as addressee of God's call.
אַבְרָהָ֖םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Vocative addressאַבְרָהָם (H85); vocative call by divine name; God summons Abraham personally to begin the test.
וַיֹּ֥אמֶרand he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; Abraham's response follows immediately, signaling readiness.
הִנֵּֽנִיhere I ampresentative particle + 1cs suffix · הִנֵּה (H2009)Predicate of readinessהִנֵּה (H2009) + 1cs sfx; 'behold me'—formula of full attentive availability before a superior.
2

וַיֹּ֡אמֶר קַח נָ֠א אֶת בִּנְךָ֨ אֶת יְחִֽידְךָ֤ אֲשֶׁר אָהַ֨בְתָּ֙ אֶת יִצְחָ֔ק וְלֶךְ לְךָ֔ אֶל אֶ֖רֶץ הַמֹּרִיָּ֑ה וְהַעֲלֵ֤הוּ שָׁם֙ לְעֹלָ֔ה עַ֚ל אַחַ֣ד הֶֽהָרִ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֖ר אֹמַ֥ר אֵלֶֽיךָ

And he said, "Take, please, your son, your only one, whom you love, Isaac, and go yourself to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains that I shall tell you."

Command intensified: the test is focused on Isaac himselfוַיֹּ֡אמֶר
Word-by-word analysis· 25 words
וַיֹּ֡אמֶרand he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; introduces the climactic command that defines the whole test.
קַחtakeQal impv 2ms · לָקַח (H3947)Main imperative (command)→ Volitional: urgent direct commandלָקַח (H3947) 'to take, receive'; Qal impv launches the test; suppletive from √לקח.
נָ֠אpleaseparticle of entreaty · נָא (H4994)Softening particle with impvנָא (H4994) particle of entreaty; softens imperative, heightening the gravity of the request.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks first apposition (son) as definite direct object.
בִּנְךָ֨your sonN m sg constr + 2ms suffix · בֵּן (H1121)Direct object of קַחבֵּן (H1121) 'son'; first of four intensifying appositions; the fundamental relational bond named first.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker (second apposition)אֵת (H853); repeated before each appositive for grammatical clarity in the long series.
יְחִֽידְךָ֤your only oneadj m sg constr + 2ms suffix · יָחִיד (H3173)Apposition to בִּנְךָיָחִיד (H3173) 'only, unique, solitary'; from root יחד; intensifies: no other covenant son exists.
אֲשֶׁרwhomrelative pronoun · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Relative pronoun introducing clauseאֲשֶׁר (H834) relative particle; introduces clause that deepens the emotional weight.
אָהַ֨בְתָּ֙you loveQal perf 2ms · אָהַב (H157)Predicate of relative clause→ Perfective with present force: deep settled loveאָהַב (H157) 'to love'; perf with ongoing sense; paternal love makes the command maximally severe.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks Isaac as the object of Abraham's love.
יִצְחָ֔קIsaacproper noun · יִצְחָק (H3327)Apposition (final naming)יִצְחָק (H3327) 'Isaac'; the covenant name withheld until last for maximum dramatic weight.
וְלֶךְand goconj וְ + Qal impv 2ms · הָלַךְ (H3212)Second imperative (command)→ Volitional: command to departהָלַךְ (H3212) 'to go, walk'; second command; the verb of departure.
לְךָ֔for yourselfprep לְ + 2ms suffix · לְReflexive emphatic dativeלְ + 2ms suffix; emphatic dative echoing לֶךְ לְךָ of Gen 12:1—a culminating call to obedience.
אֶלtoprep · אֶל (H413)Directional prepositionאֶל (H413) 'to, toward'; directional preposition governing the destination.
אֶ֖רֶץland ofN (c) sg constr · אֶרֶץ (H776)Object of אֶל (construct)אֶרֶץ (H776) 'land, earth'; construct anticipates the place name Moriah.
הַמֹּרִיָּ֑הMoriahart + proper noun · מֹרִיָּה (H4179)Genitive of אֶרֶץמֹרִיָּה (H4179) 'Moriah'; possibly 'YHWH sees/appears'; linked to Temple mount in 2 Chr 3:1.
וְהַעֲלֵ֤הוּand offer him upconj וְ + Hiphil impv 2ms + 3ms suffix · עָלָה (H5927)Third imperative (main command)→ Volitional: command to sacrificeעָלָה (H5927) Hiphil 'to bring up, offer'; the central sacrificial command of the entire test.
שָׁם֙thereadverb · שָׁם (H8033)Locative adverbשָׁם (H8033) 'there'; points forward to the place God will designate.
לְעֹלָ֔הas burnt offeringprep לְ + N f sg abs · עֹלָה (H5930)Predicate of purposeעֹלָה (H5930) 'burnt offering'; from עלה 'to ascend'; wholly consumed offering.
עַ֚לon/uponprep · עַל (H5921)Locative prepositionעַל (H5921) 'upon, over'; specifies that the mountain is the offering site.
אַחַ֣דone ofcardinal adj m sg abs · אֶחָד (H259)Partitive numeralאֶחָד (H259) 'one'; construct + article on הֶהָרִים = 'one of the mountains'; location withheld.
הֶֽהָרִ֔יםthe mountainsart + N m pl abs · הַר (H2022)Object of עַלהַר (H2022) 'mountain, hill'; exact peak unspecified—God retains full initiative.
אֲשֶׁ֖רthat/whichrelative pronoun · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Relative clause headאֲשֶׁר (H834) relative marker; introduces God's future specification of the site.
אֹמַ֥רI will tell youQal impf 1cs · אָמַר (H559)Predicate of relative clause→ Yiqtol: future — God will specifyאָמַר (H559) 'to say, tell'; impf: the exact mountain will be revealed en route.
אֵלֶֽיךָto youprep אֶל + 2ms suffix · אֶל (H413)Directional prepositional phraseאֶל (H413) 'to'; with 2ms suffix: the specification will be addressed directly to Abraham.
3

וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֨ם אַבְרָהָ֜ם בַּבֹּ֗קֶר וַֽיַּחֲבֹשׁ֙ אֶת חֲמֹר֔וֹ וַיִּקַּ֞ח אֶת שְׁנֵ֤י נְעָרָיו֙ אִתּ֔וֹ וְאֵ֖ת יִצְחָ֣ק בְּנ֑וֹ וַיְבַקַּע֙ עֲצֵ֣י עֹלָ֔ה וַיָּ֣קָם וַיֵּ֔לֶךְ אֶל הַמָּק֖וֹם אֲשֶׁר אָֽמַר ל֥וֹ הָאֱלֹהִֽים

And Abraham rose early in the morning and saddled his donkey and took with him two of his young men and Isaac his son, and he split wood for the burnt offering and rose and went to the place that God had told him.

Immediate obedience: Abraham prepares and sets out without delayוַיַּשְׁכֵּ֨ם
Word-by-word analysis· 25 words
וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֨םand he rose earlyconj וַ + Hiphil wayyiqtol 3ms · שָׁכַם (H7925)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: immediate narrative advanceשָׁכַם (H7925) Hiphil 'to rise early'; the earliest possible start signals prompt unquestioning obedience.
אַבְרָהָ֜םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Subjectאַבְרָהָם (H85); subject of the series of wayyiqtol verbs narrating obedient preparation.
בַּבֹּ֗קֶרin the morningprep בְּ + art + N m sg abs · בֹּקֶר (H1242)Temporal prepositional phraseבֹּקֶר (H1242) 'morning'; from root בקר 'to seek early'; the early hour underscores eagerness.
וַֽיַּחֲבֹשׁ֙and he saddledconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · חָבַשׁ (H2280)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceחָבַשׁ (H2280) 'to saddle, bind'; Abraham personally saddles the donkey without delegating.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks the donkey as definite direct object.
חֲמֹר֔וֹhis donkeyN (c) sg constr + 3ms suffix · חֲמוֹר (H2543)Direct objectחֲמוֹר (H2543) 'donkey, ass'; pack animal for the three-day journey; left at base in v5.
וַיִּקַּ֞חand he tookconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · לָקַח (H3947)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceלָקַח (H3947) 'to take'; rapid succession of actions builds the departure scene efficiently.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks the two servants as definite direct object.
שְׁנֵ֤יtwo ofcardinal adj m dual constr · שְׁנַיִם (H8147)Partitive numeral in constructשְׁנַיִם (H8147) 'two'; dual construct governing נְעָרָיו; a small party for the journey.
נְעָרָיו֙his young menN m pl constr + 3ms suffix · נַעַר (H5288)Direct objectנַעַר (H5288) 'youth, servant, young man'; attendants accompanying Abraham; left in v5.
אִתּ֔וֹwith himprep אֵת + 3ms suffix · אֵת (H854)Comitative prepositional phraseאֵת (H854) 'with'; comitative prep distinct from H853 obj marker; marks accompaniment.
וְאֵ֖תand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; coordinates Isaac as the second direct object after the servants.
יִצְחָ֣קIsaacproper noun · יִצְחָק (H3327)Direct object (second)יִצְחָק (H3327) 'Isaac'; listed after the servants—his inclusion is the most significant act.
בְּנ֑וֹhis sonN m sg constr + 3ms suffix · בֵּן (H1121)Apposition to יִצְחָקבֵּן (H1121) 'son'; apposition keeps the father-son relationship before the reader throughout.
וַיְבַקַּע֙and he splitconj וַ + Piel wayyiqtol 3ms · בָּקַע (H1234)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceבָּקַע (H1234) Piel 'to split, cleave'; intensive: thorough splitting of firewood for the offering.
עֲצֵ֣יwood ofN m pl constr · עֵץ (H6086)Direct object (construct head)עֵץ (H6086) 'wood, tree'; construct governing עֹלָה; this same wood will be placed on Isaac in v6.
עֹלָ֔הburnt offeringN f sg abs · עֹלָה (H5930)Genitive (construct chain)עֹלָה (H5930) 'burnt offering'; wholly consumed; echoes the command of v2; purpose of the wood.
וַיָּ֣קָםand he aroseconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · קוּם (H6965)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceקוּם (H6965) 'to rise, stand up'; ingressive: marks the moment of setting out.
וַיֵּ֔לֶךְand he wentconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · הָלַךְ (H3212)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceהָלַךְ (H3212) 'to go, walk'; the departure begins without delay or recorded deliberation.
אֶלtoprep · אֶל (H413)Directional prepositionאֶל (H413) 'to, toward'; directional toward the divinely appointed place.
הַמָּק֖וֹםthe placeart + N m sg abs · מָקוֹם (H4725)Object of אֶלמָקוֹם (H4725) 'place'; definite article: the specific site God designated, as yet unseen.
אֲשֶׁרthat/whichrelative pronoun · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Relative clause headאֲשֶׁר (H834) relative marker; introduces the identifying clause about the divinely appointed place.
אָֽמַרhad told/saidQal perf 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Predicate of relative clause→ Perfective: prior completed speech actאָמַר (H559) 'to say, tell'; perfect recalls God's prior specification in v2.
ל֥וֹto himprep לְ + 3ms suffix · לְIndirect objectלְ + 3ms suffix; dative of addressee—God had spoken this destination specifically to Abraham.
הָאֱלֹהִֽיםGodart + N m pl abs · אֱלֹהִים (H430)Subject of אָמַראֱלֹהִים (H430) 'God'; subject positioned after verb; identification of who issued the original command.
4

בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֗י וַיִּשָּׂ֨א אַבְרָהָ֧ם אֶת עֵינָ֛יו וַיַּ֥רְא אֶת הַמָּק֖וֹם מֵרָחֹֽק

On the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes and saw the place from afar.

Arrival approaches: the appointed place comes into viewבַּיּ֣וֹם
Word-by-word analysis· 10 words
בַּיּ֣וֹםon the dayprep בְּ + art + N m sg abs · יוֹם (H3117)Temporal prepositional phraseיוֹם (H3117) 'day'; with ordinal = 'on the third day'; marks duration of journey.
הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֗יthe thirdart + ordinal adj m sg abs · שְׁלִישִׁי (H7992)Attributive adjectiveשְׁלִישִׁי (H7992) 'third'; three-day journey marks deliberateness—no impulsive act but sustained resolve.
וַיִּשָּׂ֨אand he lifted upconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · נָשָׂא (H5375)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceנָשָׂא (H5375) 'to lift, carry, raise'; וַיִּשָּׂא אֶת עֵינָיו = looked up idiomatically.
אַבְרָהָ֧םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Subjectאַבְרָהָם (H85); subject of the looking; Abraham is the one who perceives the place.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks eyes as definite direct object of lifting.
עֵינָ֛יוhis eyesN (c) dual constr + 3ms suffix · עַיִן (H5869)Direct objectעַיִן (H5869) 'eye'; lifting the eyes is a standard idiom for deliberately looking toward something.
וַיַּ֥רְאand he sawconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · רָאָה (H7200)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceרָאָה (H7200) 'to see, perceive'; the same root underlying the place-name theology of v14.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks the place as the seen object.
הַמָּק֖וֹםthe placeart + N m sg abs · מָקוֹם (H4725)Direct objectמָקוֹם (H4725) 'place'; the definite article picks up the appointed site first mentioned in v2-3.
מֵרָחֹֽקfrom afarprep מִן + adj m sg abs · רָחוֹק (H7350)Adverbial prepositional phraseרָחוֹק (H7350) 'far, distant'; seen from a distance—arrival is close but not yet accomplished.
5

וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶל נְעָרָ֗יו שְׁבוּ לָכֶ֥ם פֹּה֙ עִֽם הַחֲמ֔וֹר וַאֲנִ֣י וְהַנַּ֔עַר נֵלְכָ֖ה עַד כֹּ֑ה וְנִֽשְׁתַּחֲוֶ֖ה וְנָשׁ֥וּבָה אֲלֵיכֶֽם

And Abraham said to his young men, "Stay here with the donkey, and I and the boy will go over there, and we will worship, and we will return to you."

Servants left behind: the ascent narrows to Abraham and Isaacוַיֹּ֨אמֶר
Word-by-word analysis· 17 words
וַיֹּ֨אמֶרand he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; introduces Abraham's instructions to his servants.
אַבְרָהָ֜םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Subjectאַבְרָהָם (H85); Abraham speaks to narrow the ascent to himself and Isaac alone.
אֶלtoprep · אֶל (H413)Directional prepositionאֶל (H413) 'to, toward'; marks the servants as addressees of the instruction.
נְעָרָ֗יוhis young menN m pl constr + 3ms suffix · נַעַר (H5288)Indirect objectנַעַר (H5288) 'youth, servant'; the two servants addressed before being left behind with the donkey.
שְׁבוּstay/sit hereQal impv 2mp · יָשַׁב (H3427)Main imperative (command)→ Volitional: direct command to remainיָשַׁב (H3427) 'to sit, dwell, remain'; Qal impv 2mp; servants ordered to wait at the base.
לָכֶ֥םfor yourselvesprep לְ + 2mp suffix · לְEmphatic reflexive dativeלְ + 2mp suffix; emphatic dative with impv; stresses that this is specifically for them.
פֹּה֙hereadverb · פֹּה (H6311)Locative adverbפֹּה (H6311) 'here, in this place'; the servants are to remain at this precise location.
עִֽםwithprep · עִם (H5973)Comitative prepositionעִם (H5973) 'with, together with'; comitative prep: the servants remain with the donkey.
הַחֲמ֔וֹרthe donkeyart + N (c) sg abs · חֲמוֹר (H2543)Object of עִםחֲמוֹר (H2543) 'donkey'; left with the servants—the animal cannot make the final ascent.
וַאֲנִ֣יand Iconj וְ + pers pron 1cs · אֲנִי (H589)Subject (emphatic contrastive)אֲנִי (H589) 'I'; emphatic pronoun; contrastive—I and the boy, not you.
וְהַנַּ֔עַרand the boyconj וְ + art + N m sg abs · נַעַר (H5288)Subject (compound)נַעַר (H5288) 'youth, boy'; Isaac referred to obliquely as 'the boy'; compound subject with אֲנִי.
נֵלְכָ֖הlet us goQal cohortative 1cp · הָלַךְ (H3212)Cohortative of resolve→ Volitional: cohortative of determined resolveהָלַךְ (H3212) 'to go, walk'; 1cp cohortative expresses Abraham's determined resolve to ascend.
עַדas far asprep · עַד (H5704)Terminative prepositionעַד (H5704) 'as far as, until'; marks the terminus of the short journey ahead.
כֹּ֑הyonder/thereadverb · כֹּה (H3541)Locative adverbכֹּה (H3541) 'thus, here, yonder'; vague referent; Abraham does not specify the exact destination.
וְנִֽשְׁתַּחֲוֶ֖הand we will worshipconj וְ + Hitpael impf 1cp · שָׁחָה (H7812)Impf 1cp of purpose/intent→ Yiqtol: imperfective — future worship stated as purposeשָׁחָה (H7812) Hitpael 'to bow down, worship'; worship framed as the purpose of the entire ascent.
וְנָשׁ֥וּבָהand we will returnconj וְ + Qal cohortative 1cp · שׁוּב (H7725)Cohortative of resolve/promise→ Volitional: cohortative of promise or trustשׁוּב (H7725) 'to return'; the plural 'we' promise is either Abraham's trust in God or protective ambiguity.
אֲלֵיכֶֽםto you (pl)prep אֶל + 2mp suffix · אֶל (H413)Directional prepositional phraseאֶל (H413) 'to'; with 2mp suffix addressed to the servants waiting at the base.
6

וַיִּקַּ֨ח אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶת עֲצֵ֣י הָעֹלָ֗ה וַיָּ֨שֶׂם֙ עַל יִצְחָ֣ק בְּנ֔וֹ וַיִּקַּ֣ח בְּיָד֔וֹ אֶת הָאֵ֖שׁ וְאֶת הַֽמַּאֲכֶ֑לֶת וַיֵּלְכ֥וּ שְׁנֵיהֶ֖ם יַחְדָּֽו

And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and placed it on Isaac his son, and he took in his hand the fire and the knife, and the two of them went together.

Ascent burdened: Isaac bears the wood while Abraham carries the instrumentsוַיִּקַּ֨ח
Word-by-word analysis· 18 words
וַיִּקַּ֨חand he tookconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · לָקַח (H3947)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceלָקַח (H3947) 'to take'; begins the careful distribution of the sacrificial instruments.
אַבְרָהָ֜םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Subjectאַבְרָהָם (H85); Abraham acts as the one who distributes loads for the ascent.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks the wood as definite direct object.
עֲצֵ֣יwood ofN m pl constr · עֵץ (H6086)Direct object (construct head)עֵץ (H6086) 'wood, tree'; the split firewood of v3; now assigned to Isaac to carry.
הָעֹלָ֗הthe burnt offeringart + N f sg abs · עֹלָה (H5930)Genitive in construct chainעֹלָה (H5930) 'burnt offering'; Isaac bears the very wood destined for his own sacrifice.
וַיָּ֨שֶׂם֙and he placedconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · שׂוּם (H7760)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceשׂוּם (H7760) 'to put, place, set'; Abraham places the wood burden on Isaac deliberately.
עַלupon/onprep · עַל (H5921)Locative prepositionעַל (H5921) 'upon, over'; the wood is placed on top of Isaac.
יִצְחָ֣קIsaacproper noun · יִצְחָק (H3327)Object of עַליִצְחָק (H3327) 'Isaac'; bears the sacrificial wood—typologically rich in later interpretation.
בְּנ֔וֹhis sonN m sg constr + 3ms suffix · בֵּן (H1121)Apposition to יִצְחָקבֵּן (H1121) 'son'; apposition sustains the relational weight before the reader.
וַיִּקַּ֣חand he tookconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · לָקַח (H3947)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceלָקַח (H3947) 'to take'; Abraham takes the dangerous instruments himself, protecting Isaac.
בְּיָד֔וֹin his handprep בְּ + N (c) sg constr + 3ms suffix · יָד (H3027)Locative prepositional phraseיָד (H3027) 'hand'; Abraham personally holds fire and knife—the instruments of death.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks the fire as first definite direct object.
הָאֵ֖שׁthe fireart + N (c) sg abs · אֵשׁ (H784)Direct object (first)אֵשׁ (H784) 'fire'; the fire needed to consume the burnt offering; carried by Abraham.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; coordinates the knife as second definite direct object.
הַֽמַּאֲכֶ֑לֶתthe knifeart + N f sg abs · מַאֲכֶלֶת (H3979)Direct object (second)מַאֲכֶלֶת (H3979) 'knife, blade'; from אכל 'to eat/consume'; the slaughtering knife for sacrifice.
וַיֵּלְכ֥וּand they wentconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3mp · הָלַךְ (H3212)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceהָלַךְ (H3212) 'to go, walk'; the two proceed together, each carrying the weight of the moment.
שְׁנֵיהֶ֖םthe two of themcardinal adj m dual constr + 3mp suffix · שְׁנַיִם (H8147)Subject (appositive summary)שְׁנַיִם (H8147) 'two'; refrain (repeated in v8) underscores their solemn unity in silence.
יַחְדָּֽוtogetheradverb · יַחַד (H3162)Adverb of mannerיַחַד (H3162) 'together, in union'; solemn refrain word; repeated in v8—father and son in step.
7

וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יִצְחָ֜ק אֶל אַבְרָהָ֤ם אָבִיו֙ וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אָבִ֔י וַיֹּ֖אמֶר הִנֶּ֣נִּֽי בְנִ֑י וַיֹּ֗אמֶר הִנֵּ֤ה הָאֵשׁ֙ וְהָ֣עֵצִ֔ים וְאַיֵּ֥ה הַשֶּׂ֖ה לְעֹלָֽה

And Isaac said to Abraham his father and said, "My father." And he said, "Here I am, my son." And he said, "Behold, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?"

Isaac question: the unspoken lack is finally namedוַיֹּ֨אמֶר
Word-by-word analysis· 17 words
וַיֹּ֨אמֶרand he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; Isaac breaks the silence—the question has been building since v3.
יִצְחָ֜קIsaacproper noun · יִצְחָק (H3327)Subjectיִצְחָק (H3327) 'Isaac'; initiates the dialogue—his question names the unspoken absence.
אֶלtoprep · אֶל (H413)Directional prepositionאֶל (H413) 'to, toward'; marks Abraham as the addressee of Isaac's question.
אַבְרָהָ֤םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Object of אֶלאַבְרָהָם (H85); named as addressee, reminding reader of the father-son dynamic.
אָבִיו֙his fatherN m sg constr + 3ms suffix · אָב (H1)Apposition to אַבְרָהָםאָב (H1) 'father'; apposition reinforces the relational bond at the moment of the question.
וַיֹּ֣אמֶרand he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; Isaac's vocative call—opening the question with filial address.
אָבִ֔יmy fatherN m sg constr + 1cs suffix · אָב (H1)Vocative addressאָב (H1) 'father'; vocative call with 1cs suffix; tender address opening the pointed question.
וַיֹּ֖אמֶרand he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; Abraham's responsive reply, tender and immediate.
הִנֶּ֣נִּֽיhere I ampresentative particle + 1cs suffix · הִנֵּה (H2009)Predicate of attentivenessהִנֵּה (H2009) + 1cs sfx; 'behold me'—Abraham's readiness formula; echoes v1 and v11.
בְנִ֑יmy sonN m sg constr + 1cs suffix · בֵּן (H1121)Vocative addressבֵּן (H1121) 'son'; Abraham's tender counter-address; the parental bond acknowledged mid-trial.
וַיֹּ֗אמֶרand he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; Isaac continues—the question about the lamb follows the tender exchange.
הִנֵּ֤הbeholdpresentative particle · הִנֵּה (H2009)Presentative attention-getterהִנֵּה (H2009) 'behold, see'; draws attention to the items visibly present as contrast to the absence.
הָאֵשׁ֙the fireart + N (c) sg abs · אֵשׁ (H784)Subject of nominal clauseאֵשׁ (H784) 'fire'; present and accounted for—part of what makes the missing lamb conspicuous.
וְהָ֣עֵצִ֔יםand the woodconj וְ + art + N m pl abs · עֵץ (H6086)Subject (compound)עֵץ (H6086) 'wood, tree'; Isaac bears the wood; both elements present heighten the absence.
וְאַיֵּ֥הbut where isconj וְ + interrogative · אַיֵּה (H346)Interrogative particleאַיֵּה (H346) 'where?'; conj marks adversative contrast; the gap Isaac has noticed cannot be hidden.
הַשֶּׂ֖הthe lambart + N (c) sg abs · שֶׂה (H7716)Subject of interrogative clauseשֶׂה (H7716) 'sheep, lamb'; the specific animal visibly missing; Isaac understands what an עֹלָה requires.
לְעֹלָֽהfor burnt offeringprep לְ + N f sg abs · עֹלָה (H5930)Prepositional phrase of purposeעֹלָה (H5930) 'burnt offering'; the purpose of the lamb—the question carries its full sacrificial weight.
8

וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם אֱלֹהִ֞ים יִרְאֶה לּ֥וֹ הַשֶּׂ֛ה לְעֹלָ֖ה בְּנִ֑י וַיֵּלְכ֥וּ שְׁנֵיהֶ֖ם יַחְדָּֽו

And Abraham said, "God will see for himself the lamb for the burnt offering, my son." And the two of them went together.

Faithful reply: Abraham places the answer in God seeingוַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙
Word-by-word analysis· 11 words
וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙and he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; introduces Abraham's famous reply of faith.
אַבְרָהָ֔םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Subjectאַבְרָהָם (H85); Abraham speaks the answer that names the theological heart of the chapter.
אֱלֹהִ֞יםGodN m pl abs · אֱלֹהִים (H430)Subject of יִרְאֶה (fronted)אֱלֹהִים (H430) 'God'; fronted subject for emphasis: God, not Abraham, will see to the provision.
יִרְאֶהwill see/provideQal impf 3ms · רָאָה (H7200)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Yiqtol: imperfective — future divine actionרָאָה (H7200) 'to see'; here laden with provision: God seeing = God providing; anticipates v14 YHWH-yireh.
לּ֥וֹfor himselfprep לְ + 3ms suffix · לְReflexive dativeלְ + 3ms suffix; God will see/provide for himself—the ram is God's own provision.
הַשֶּׂ֛הthe lamb/sheepart + N (c) sg abs · שֶׂה (H7716)Direct object of provisionשֶׂה (H7716) 'sheep, lamb'; the animal God will provide; answers Isaac's question of v7 proleptically.
לְעֹלָ֖הfor burnt offeringprep לְ + N f sg abs · עֹלָה (H5930)Prepositional phrase of purposeעֹלָה (H5930) 'burnt offering'; same phrase as v7—Abraham answers Isaac's exact question.
בְּנִ֑יmy sonN m sg constr + 1cs suffix · בֵּן (H1121)Vocative addressבֵּן (H1121) 'son'; closing address—tender reply closes the exchange; they walk on.
וַיֵּלְכ֥וּand they wentconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3mp · הָלַךְ (H3212)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceהָלַךְ (H3212) 'to go, walk'; they resume walking under the weight of the answer.
שְׁנֵיהֶ֖םthe two of themcardinal adj m dual constr + 3mp suffix · שְׁנַיִם (H8147)Subject (appositive summary)שְׁנַיִם (H8147) 'two'; solemn refrain repeated from v6—now after the profound exchange.
יַחְדָּֽוtogetheradverb · יַחַד (H3162)Adverb of mannerיַחַד (H3162) 'together'; refrain word again; together now under the weight of Abraham's answer.
9

וַיָּבֹ֗אוּ אֶֽל הַמָּקוֹם֮ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָֽמַר ל֣וֹ הָאֱלֹהִים֒ וַיִּ֨בֶן שָׁ֤ם אַבְרָהָם֙ אֶת הַמִּזְבֵּ֔חַ וַֽיַּעֲרֹ֖ךְ אֶת הָעֵצִ֑ים וַֽיַּעֲקֹד֙ אֶת יִצְחָ֣ק בְּנ֔וֹ וַיָּ֤שֶׂם אֹתוֹ֙ עַל הַמִּזְבֵּ֔חַ מִמַּ֖עַל לָעֵצִֽים

And they came to the place that God had told him, and Abraham built there the altar and arranged the wood and bound Isaac his son and placed him on the altar, on top of the wood.

Climactic preparation: the altar is built and Isaac is boundוַיָּבֹ֗אוּ
Word-by-word analysis· 25 words
וַיָּבֹ֗אוּand they cameconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3mp · בּוֹא (H935)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceבּוֹא (H935) 'to come, arrive'; the long-anticipated arrival at the appointed place.
אֶֽלtoprep · אֶל (H413)Directional prepositionאֶל (H413) 'to, toward'; directional to the climactic destination.
הַמָּקוֹם֮the placeart + N m sg abs · מָקוֹם (H4725)Object of אֶלמָקוֹם (H4725) 'place'; the definite article picks up the exact destination first mentioned in v2-3.
אֲשֶׁ֣רthat/whichrelative pronoun · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Relative clause headאֲשֶׁר (H834) relative marker; introduces the clause identifying the place as God-appointed.
אָֽמַרhad told/saidQal perf 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Predicate of relative clause→ Perfective: prior completed speech actאָמַר (H559) 'to say, tell'; the divine specification of v2 has been faithfully followed.
ל֣וֹto himprep לְ + 3ms suffix · לְIndirect objectלְ + 3ms suffix; dative—God had spoken this location to Abraham personally.
הָאֱלֹהִים֒Godart + N m pl abs · אֱלֹהִים (H430)Subject of אָמַראֱלֹהִים (H430) 'God'; the divine source of the command that Abraham has now fully carried out to this point.
וַיִּ֨בֶןand he builtconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · בָּנָה (H1129)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceבָּנָה (H1129) 'to build, construct'; Abraham builds the altar with deliberate, focused action.
שָׁ֤םthereadverb · שָׁם (H8033)Locative adverbשָׁם (H8033) 'there'; specifies the altar is built at the appointed place itself.
אַבְרָהָם֙Abrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Subject (delayed for emphasis)אַבְרָהָם (H85); subject placed after the verb for narrative emphasis on the actor.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks the altar as the definite direct object.
הַמִּזְבֵּ֔חַthe altarart + N m sg abs · מִזְבֵּחַ (H4196)Direct objectמִזְבֵּחַ (H4196) 'altar'; from זָבַח 'to slaughter/sacrifice'; the site of the offering.
וַֽיַּעֲרֹ֖ךְand he arrangedconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · עָרַךְ (H6186)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceעָרַךְ (H6186) 'to arrange, set in order'; technical term for laying wood on the altar in sacrificial order.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks the wood as definite direct object.
הָעֵצִ֑יםthe woodart + N m pl abs · עֵץ (H6086)Direct objectעֵץ (H6086) 'wood, tree'; the split wood of v3, carried by Isaac in v6, now arranged on the altar.
וַֽיַּעֲקֹד֙and he boundconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · עָקַד (H6123)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceעָקַד (H6123) 'to bind, tie'; hapax in OT; gives name to the Aqedah; the climactic act of the scene.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks Isaac as the definite direct object of the binding.
יִצְחָ֣קIsaacproper noun · יִצְחָק (H3327)Direct object of bindingיִצְחָק (H3327) 'Isaac'; the covenant son is bound—the narrative reaches its point of maximum tension.
בְּנ֔וֹhis sonN m sg constr + 3ms suffix · בֵּן (H1121)Apposition to יִצְחָקבֵּן (H1121) 'son'; apposition at the moment of binding; relational bond kept before the reader.
וַיָּ֤שֶׂםand he placedconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · שׂוּם (H7760)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceשׂוּם (H7760) 'to put, place, set'; Abraham places the bound Isaac on the altar with deliberation.
אֹתוֹ֙him [obj]obj marker + 3ms suffix · אֵת (H853)Direct object pronounאֵת (H853) + 3ms suffix; pronoun referring back to Isaac; him = the bound son.
עַלupon/onprep · עַל (H5921)Locative prepositionעַל (H5921) 'upon, over'; Isaac is placed on top of the altar.
הַמִּזְבֵּ֔חַthe altarart + N m sg abs · מִזְבֵּחַ (H4196)Object of עַלמִזְבֵּחַ (H4196) 'altar'; from זָבַח; the altar Abraham built is the immediate sacrificial site.
מִמַּ֖עַלabove/on topprep מִן + adverb · מַעַל (H4605)Locative prepositional phraseמַעַל (H4605) 'above, upward'; מִמַּעַל לָ = 'on top of'; Isaac positioned above the arranged wood.
לָעֵצִֽיםthe woodprep לְ + art + N m pl abs · עֵץ (H6086)Object of locative phraseעֵץ (H6086) 'wood, tree'; Isaac is laid on top of the wood—the offering is fully prepared.
10

וַיִּשְׁלַ֤ח אַבְרָהָם֙ אֶת יָד֔וֹ וַיִּקַּ֖ח אֶת הַֽמַּאֲכֶ֑לֶת לִשְׁחֹ֖ט אֶת בְּנֽוֹ

And Abraham stretched out his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son.

Act imminent: Abraham reaches for the final deedוַיִּשְׁלַ֤ח
Word-by-word analysis· 10 words
וַיִּשְׁלַ֤חand he stretched outconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · שָׁלַח (H7971)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceשָׁלַח (H7971) 'to send, stretch out'; the hand extended toward the knife—the act nearly complete.
אַבְרָהָם֙Abrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Subjectאַבְרָהָם (H85); Abraham is the one who reaches for the knife to complete the command.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks his hand as definite direct object.
יָד֔וֹhis handN (c) sg constr + 3ms suffix · יָד (H3027)Direct objectיָד (H3027) 'hand'; the hand reaching for the knife—the same hand halted in v12.
וַיִּקַּ֖חand he tookconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · לָקַח (H3947)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceלָקַח (H3947) 'to take'; the knife is grasped—the last act before divine intervention.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks the knife as definite direct object of taking.
הַֽמַּאֲכֶ֑לֶתthe knifeart + N f sg abs · מַאֲכֶלֶת (H3979)Direct objectמַאֲכֶלֶת (H3979) 'knife, blade'; from אכל 'to consume'; the instrument of ritual slaughter.
לִשְׁחֹ֖טto slaughterprep לְ + Qal inf constr · שָׁחַט (H7819)Infinitive of purpose→ Infinitival: telic — intent of the actשָׁחַט (H7819) 'to slaughter, kill'; the sacrificial slaughter term; this is the stated purpose.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks his son as definite direct object of slaughter.
בְּנֽוֹhis sonN m sg constr + 3ms suffix · בֵּן (H1121)Object of inf constr שָׁחַטבֵּן (H1121) 'son'; stated starkly as intended victim—the relational horror held in full view.
11

וַיִּקְרָ֨א אֵלָ֜יו מַלְאַ֤ךְ יְהוָה֙ מִן הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אַבְרָהָ֣ם אַבְרָהָ֑ם וַיֹּ֖אמֶר הִנֵּֽנִי

And the angel of YHWH called to him from heaven and said, "Abraham, Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am."

Heaven interrupts: the decisive intervention comes at the last momentוַיִּקְרָ֨א
Word-by-word analysis· 11 words
וַיִּקְרָ֨אand he calledconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · קָרָא (H7121)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceקָרָא (H7121) 'to call, summon'; the divine intervention arrives at the last possible moment.
אֵלָ֜יוto himprep אֶל + 3ms suffix · אֶל (H413)Directional prepositional phraseאֶל (H413) 'to, toward'; with 3ms suffix the call is directed specifically to Abraham.
מַלְאַ֤ךְangel/messenger ofN m sg constr · מַלְאָךְ (H4397)Subject (construct chain)מַלְאָךְ (H4397) 'messenger, angel'; construct governing יְהוָה; acts as divine agent with full divine authority.
יְהוָה֙YHWHproper noun · יְהוָה (H3068)Genitive (construct chain)יְהוָה (H3068) the divine personal name; the angel of YHWH functions as direct divine representative.
מִןfromprep · מִן (H4480)Ablative prepositionמִן (H4480) 'from, out of'; ablative marking origin of the heavenly call.
הַשָּׁמַ֔יִםthe heavensart + N m pl abs · שָׁמַיִם (H8064)Object of מִןשָׁמַיִם (H8064) 'heavens, sky'; the call comes from the divine sphere, underscoring its authority.
וַיֹּ֖אמֶרand he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; the heavenly call contains the double name formula.
אַבְרָהָ֣םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Vocative (first call)אַבְרָהָם (H85); first vocative of the doubled name; the repetition signals extreme divine urgency.
אַבְרָהָ֑םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Vocative (second call)אַבְרָהָם (H85); second vocative; doubled name marks divine intensity (cf. Moses in Exod 3:4).
וַיֹּ֖אמֶרand he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; Abraham responds instantly with the readiness formula.
הִנֵּֽנִיhere I ampresentative particle + 1cs suffix · הִנֵּה (H2009)Predicate of attentivenessהִנֵּה (H2009) + 1cs sfx; third occurrence of הִנֵּנִי in ch 22 (v1, v7, v11); pattern of total readiness.
12

וַיֹּ֗אמֶר אַל תִּשְׁלַ֤ח יָֽדְךָ֙ אֶל הַנַּ֔עַר וְאַל תַּ֥עַשׂ ל֖וֹ מְא֑וּמָּה כִּ֣י עַתָּ֣ה יָדַ֗עְתִּי כִּֽי יְרֵ֤א אֱלֹהִים֙ אַ֔תָּה וְלֹ֥א חָשַׂ֛כְתָּ אֶת בִּנְךָ֥ אֶת יְחִידְךָ֖ מִמֶּֽנִּי

And he said, "Do not stretch out your hand against the boy, and do not do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, and you have not withheld your son, your only one, from me."

Test resolved: Abraham's fear of God is publicly demonstratedוַיֹּ֗אמֶר
Word-by-word analysis· 24 words
וַיֹּ֗אמֶרand he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; the angel's message delivers the verdict reversing the command.
אַלdo notnegative particle · אַל (H408)Prohibitive negative particleאַל (H408) negates jussive or impv; stronger volitional prohibition than לֹא; decisive command to stop.
תִּשְׁלַ֤חstretch outQal jussive 2ms · שָׁלַח (H7971)Jussive (prohibition)→ Volitional: jussive prohibited by אַלשָׁלַח (H7971) 'to send, stretch out'; the exact act of v10 is now prohibited—verbal reversal.
יָֽדְךָ֙your handN (c) sg constr + 2ms suffix · יָד (H3027)Direct objectיָד (H3027) 'hand'; the outstretched hand of v10 is precisely what the command halts.
אֶלagainstprep · אֶל (H413)Directional preposition (adversative)אֶל (H413) 'to, toward'; here adversative direction—the hand must not move against the boy.
הַנַּ֔עַרthe boyart + N m sg abs · נַעַר (H5288)Object of אֶלנַעַר (H5288) 'boy, youth'; Isaac referred to by role rather than name at this climactic moment.
וְאַלand do notconj וְ + negative particle · אַל (H408)Second prohibitive negativeאַל (H408) 'do not'; second prohibition; conj coordinates a comprehensive double ban.
תַּ֥עַשׂdoQal jussive 2ms · עָשָׂה (H6213)Jussive (prohibition)→ Volitional: jussive prohibited by אַלעָשָׂה (H6213) 'to do, make'; comprehensive prohibition—not merely stop the knife but do nothing at all.
ל֖וֹto himprep לְ + 3ms suffix · לְIndirect objectלְ + 3ms suffix; 'to him' = Isaac; no action of any kind is to be done to the boy.
מְא֑וּמָּהanythingN f sg abs · מְאוּמָּה (H3972)Direct objectמְאוּמָּה (H3972) 'anything, a thing'; under double negation = nothing; total prohibition on any harm.
כִּ֣יfor/becauseconjunction · כִּי (H3588)Causal conjunctionכִּי (H3588) 'for, because'; introduces the reason for the halt: the test is concluded.
עַתָּ֣הnowadverb · עַתָּה (H6258)Temporal adverbעַתָּה (H6258) 'now'; the critical moment: the act has now demonstrated what was to be proved.
יָדַ֗עְתִּיI knowQal perf 1cs · יָדַע (H3045)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Perfective: knowledge confirmed by demonstrated actיָדַע (H3045) 'to know'; perf = knowledge established by the visible proof—narrative not omniscience.
כִּֽיthatconjunction · כִּי (H3588)Content conjunctionכִּי (H3588) 'that'; introduces the content of the knowledge now confirmed.
יְרֵ֤אfearing Godadj m sg constr · יָרֵא (H3373)Predicate adjectiveיָרֵא (H3373) 'fearing, reverent'; construct adj; יְרֵא אֱלֹהִים = God-fearer, OT's comprehensive covenant loyalty term.
אֱלֹהִים֙GodN m pl abs · אֱלֹהִים (H430)Object of יְרֵא (construct)אֱלֹהִים (H430) 'God'; yir'at Elohim is the comprehensive term for covenant faithfulness and reverence.
אַ֔תָּהyoupers pron 2ms · אַתָּה (H859)Subject (emphatic pronoun)אַתָּה (H859) 'you'; emphatic independent pronoun; the formal declaration of Abraham's status as God-fearer.
וְלֹ֥אand notconj וְ + negative · לֹא (H3808)Negative conjunctionלֹא (H3808) 'not'; strong negation; conj coordinates the complementary act of non-withholding.
חָשַׂ֛כְתָּyou withheldQal perf 2ms · חָשַׂךְ (H2820)Predicate verb (compound clause)→ Perfective: completed act of non-withholdingחָשַׂךְ (H2820) 'to withhold, spare, restrain'; the obedience is proved by what was NOT withheld.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks your son as definite direct object.
בִּנְךָ֥your sonN m sg constr + 2ms suffix · בֵּן (H1121)Direct objectבֵּן (H1121) 'son'; first apposition echoing the exact language of v2—the test mirrors the command.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker (second apposition)אֵת (H853); repeated before the second apposition, as in v2.
יְחִידְךָ֖your only oneadj m sg constr + 2ms suffix · יָחִיד (H3173)Apposition to בִּנְךָיָחִיד (H3173) 'only, unique'; echoing v2 and v12; the declaration of proof uses the language of the test.
מִמֶּֽנִּיfrom meprep מִן + 1cs suffix · מִן (H4480)Ablative prepositional phraseמִן (H4480) 'from'; with 1cs suffix: the son was not withheld from God himself—the ultimate claim.
13

וַיִּשָּׂ֨א אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶת עֵינָ֗יו וַיַּרְא֙ וְהִנֵּה אַ֔יִל אַחַ֕ר נֶאֱחַ֥ז בַּסְּבַ֖ךְ בְּקַרְנָ֑יו וַיֵּ֤לֶךְ אַבְרָהָם֙ וַיִּקַּ֣ח אֶת הָאַ֔יִל וַיַּעֲלֵ֥הוּ לְעֹלָ֖ה תַּ֥חַת בְּנֽוֹ

And Abraham lifted up his eyes and saw, and behold, behind him a ram caught in the thicket by its horns. And Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son.

Substitute provided: the ram is given in Isaac's placeוַיִּשָּׂ֨א
Word-by-word analysis· 20 words
וַיִּשָּׂ֨אand he lifted upconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · נָשָׂא (H5375)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceנָשָׂא (H5375) 'to lift, carry, raise'; same idiom as v4—Abraham looks up immediately after the halt.
אַבְרָהָ֜םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Subjectאַבְרָהָם (H85); Abraham looks up in the moment after the command has been stopped.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks eyes as definite direct object.
עֵינָ֗יוhis eyesN (c) dual constr + 3ms suffix · עַיִן (H5869)Direct objectעַיִן (H5869) 'eye'; raising the eyes in the idiom of looking around; providential discovery follows.
וַיַּרְא֙and he sawconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · רָאָה (H7200)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceרָאָה (H7200) 'to see'; the seeing that leads to the provision—key verb of the chapter's theology.
וְהִנֵּהand beholdconj וְ + presentative · הִנֵּה (H2009)Presentative of sudden discoveryהִנֵּה (H2009) 'behold'; marks surprise and sudden perception—the providential ram is suddenly seen.
אַ֔יִלa ramN m sg abs · אַיִל (H352)Subject of nominal clauseאַיִל (H352) 'ram, male sheep'; the specific animal God has provided as substitute for Isaac.
אַחַ֕רbehindprep/adv · אַחַר (H310)Locative adverb/prepositionאַחַר (H310) 'behind, after'; the ram was positioned behind Abraham—providentially placed.
נֶאֱחַ֥זcaughtNiphal perf 3ms · אָחַז (H270)Predicate (nominal clause)→ Perfective (Niphal passive): completed state of being caughtאָחַז (H270) Niphal 'to be caught, held fast'; the ram is providentially caught—unable to flee.
בַּסְּבַ֖ךְin the thicketprep בְּ + art + N m sg abs · סְבַךְ (H5442)Locative prepositional phraseסְבַךְ (H5442) 'thicket, dense undergrowth'; hapax in OT; the entanglement holds the ram providentially.
בְּקַרְנָ֑יוby its hornsprep בְּ + N (c) dual constr + 3ms suffix · קֶרֶן (H7161)Instrumental prepositional phraseקֶרֶן (H7161) 'horn'; the ram's horns caught in the thicket—the means of divine entrapment.
וַיֵּ֤לֶךְand he wentconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · הָלַךְ (H3212)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceהָלַךְ (H3212) 'to go, walk'; Abraham moves immediately to take the ram.
אַבְרָהָם֙Abrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Subjectאַבְרָהָם (H85); subject placed after the verb; Abraham's action is swift and resolute.
וַיִּקַּ֣חand he tookconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · לָקַח (H3947)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceלָקַח (H3947) 'to take'; Abraham takes the providentially provided ram without hesitation.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks the ram as definite direct object.
הָאַ֔יִלthe ramart + N m sg abs · אַיִל (H352)Direct objectאַיִל (H352) 'ram'; now definite with article—the specific ram God provided is taken.
וַיַּעֲלֵ֥הוּand offered him upconj וַ + Hiphil wayyiqtol 3ms + 3ms suffix · עָלָה (H5927)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceעָלָה (H5927) Hiphil 'to bring up, offer'; the command of v2 is fulfilled—but on the ram, not Isaac.
לְעֹלָ֖הas burnt offeringprep לְ + N f sg abs · עֹלָה (H5930)Predicate of purposeעֹלָה (H5930) 'burnt offering'; the offering commanded in v2 is now completed via substitution.
תַּ֥חַתinstead ofprep · תַּחַת (H8478)Substitutionary prepositionתַּחַת (H8478) 'under, in place of, instead of'; marks substitution—the ram dies in Isaac's stead.
בְּנֽוֹhis sonN m sg constr + 3ms suffix · בֵּן (H1121)Object of תַּחַתבֵּן (H1121) 'son'; 'instead of his son'—the substitutionary force must not be softened.
14

וַיִּקְרָ֧א אַבְרָהָ֛ם שֵֽׁם הַמָּק֥וֹם הַה֖וּא יְהוָ֣ה יִרְאֶ֑ה אֲשֶׁר֙ יֵאָמֵ֣ר הַיּ֔וֹם בְּהַ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה יֵרָאֶֽה

And Abraham called the name of that place YHWH Will See, as it is said today, "On the mountain of YHWH it shall be seen."

Place named: the mountain becomes a memorial of divine seeingוַיִּקְרָ֧א
Word-by-word analysis· 13 words
וַיִּקְרָ֧אand he called/namedconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · קָרָא (H7121)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceקָרָא (H7121) 'to call, name'; naming the place memorializes the theological significance of the event.
אַבְרָהָ֛םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Subjectאַבְרָהָם (H85); Abraham acts as the one who names and interprets the meaning of the site.
שֵֽׁםthe name ofN m sg constr · שֵׁם (H8034)Direct object (construct chain)שֵׁם (H8034) 'name'; construct governing הַמָּקוֹם; the act of naming encodes the theological lesson.
הַמָּק֥וֹםthe placeart + N m sg abs · מָקוֹם (H4725)Genitive of שֵׁםמָקוֹם (H4725) 'place'; the definite site of the test and provision receives its permanent memorial name.
הַה֖וּאthat (one)art + pers pron 3ms · הוּא (H1931)Demonstrative adjectiveהוּא (H1931) 'he/that'; with article = demonstrative adjective pointing to the specific place.
יְהוָ֣הYHWHproper noun · יְהוָה (H3068)First element of place-nameיְהוָה (H3068) the divine personal name; the name Yahweh-Yireh encodes divine provision as YHWH's character.
יִרְאֶ֑הwill see/provideQal impf 3ms · רָאָה (H7200)Second element of place-name→ Yiqtol: ongoing/future — YHWH's provision continuesרָאָה (H7200) 'to see'; divine seeing = providing; יְהוָה יִרְאֶה = YHWH-Yireh 'YHWH will provide.'
אֲשֶׁר֙as/whererelative pronoun · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Relative clause headאֲשֶׁר (H834) relative marker; introduces the proverbial saying associated with the site.
יֵאָמֵ֣רit is saidNiphal impf 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Niphal impersonal passive→ Yiqtol: gnomic/ongoing — proverbial sayingאָמַר (H559) Niphal 'to be said'; impersonal passive + יוֹם = 'to this day' etiology formula.
הַיּ֔וֹםtodayart + N m sg abs · יוֹם (H3117)Temporal adverbial accusativeיוֹם (H3117) 'day'; 'this day' formula anchors the etiology to the narrator's present audience.
בְּהַ֥רon the mountain ofprep בְּ + N m sg constr · הַר (H2022)Locative prepositional phraseהַר (H2022) 'mountain, hill'; 'the mountain of YHWH'—later linked to Zion/Temple tradition.
יְהוָ֖הYHWHproper noun · יְהוָה (H3068)Genitive of הַריְהוָה (H3068); 'mountain of YHWH' becomes a resonant theological phrase in later Israelite tradition.
יֵרָאֶֽהshall be seenNiphal impf 3ms · רָאָה (H7200)Niphal impf (gnomic)→ Yiqtol: gnomic — ongoing appearing/being seenרָאָה (H7200) Niphal 'to be seen, appear'; wordplay: YHWH sees and is seen/appears on this mountain.
15

וַיִּקְרָ֛א מַלְאַ֥ךְ יְהוָ֖ה אֶל אַבְרָהָ֑ם שֵׁנִ֖ית מִן הַשָּׁמָֽיִם

And the angel of YHWH called to Abraham a second time from heaven,

Second heavenly address: the halted act is followed by formal reaffirmationוַיִּקְרָ֛א
Word-by-word analysis· 8 words
וַיִּקְרָ֛אand he calledconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · קָרָא (H7121)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceקָרָא (H7121) 'to call'; the angel calls a second time—the halted act is followed by formal reaffirmation.
מַלְאַ֥ךְthe angel/messenger ofN m sg constr · מַלְאָךְ (H4397)Subject (construct chain)מַלְאָךְ (H4397) 'messenger, angel'; construct governing יְהוָה; same agent as v11.
יְהוָ֖הYHWHproper noun · יְהוָה (H3068)Genitive of מַלְאָךְיְהוָה (H3068); the angel of YHWH delivers the solemn oath-backed promise that follows in vv16-18.
אֶלtoprep · אֶל (H413)Directional prepositionאֶל (H413) 'to, toward'; marks Abraham as the addressee of the second heavenly address.
אַבְרָהָ֑םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Object of אֶלאַבְרָהָם (H85); the recipient of the second and more solemn heavenly message.
שֵׁנִ֖יתa second timeordinal adj f sg abs · שֵׁנִי (H8145)Adverbial accusative of timeשֵׁנִי (H8145) 'second'; adv accusative; the second call marks a distinct and more solemn address.
מִןfromprep · מִן (H4480)Ablative prepositionמִן (H4480) 'from, out of'; the call again originates from the heavenly sphere.
הַשָּׁמָֽיִםthe heavensart + N m pl abs · שָׁמַיִם (H8064)Object of מִןשָׁמַיִם (H8064) 'heavens, sky'; the second call from heaven elevates the solemnity of what follows.
16

וַיֹּ֕אמֶר בִּ֥י נִשְׁבַּ֖עְתִּי נְאֻם יְהוָ֑ה כִּ֗י יַ֚עַן אֲשֶׁ֤ר עָשִׂ֨יתָ֙ אֶת הַדָּבָ֣ר הַזֶּ֔ה וְלֹ֥א חָשַׂ֖כְתָּ אֶת בִּנְךָ֥ אֶת יְחִידֶֽךָ

and said, "By myself I have sworn, declaration of YHWH, because you have done this thing and have not withheld your son, your only one,

Divine oath: YHWH binds the promise to Abraham obedienceוַיֹּ֕אמֶר
Word-by-word analysis· 18 words
וַיֹּ֕אמֶרand he saidconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · אָמַר (H559)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; introduces the solemn divine oath, the rarest form of divine commitment in Genesis.
בִּ֥יby myselfprep בְּ + 1cs suffix · בְּObject of oath formulaבְּ + 1cs suffix; 'by myself'—the divine self-oath when no higher authority exists (Heb 6:13).
נִשְׁבַּ֖עְתִּיI have swornNiphal perf 1cs · שָׁבַע (H7650)Predicate verb (oath)→ Perfective: solemn completed oathשָׁבַע (H7650) Niphal 'to swear an oath'; the divine self-oath is the highest possible commitment in the OT.
נְאֻםdeclaration ofN m sg constr · נְאֻם (H5002)Citation formulaנְאֻם (H5002) 'utterance, declaration'; construct + divine name = solemn prophetic oracle formula.
יְהוָ֑הYHWHproper noun · יְהוָה (H3068)Genitive of נְאֻםיְהוָה (H3068); marks the utterance as YHWH's authoritative covenant declaration.
כִּ֗יbecauseconjunction · כִּי (H3588)Causal conjunctionכִּי (H3588) 'for, because'; introduces the dual ground for the oath: what Abraham did and did not do.
יַ֚עַןinasmuch asconjunction · יַעַן (H3282)Causal conjunction (reinforcing)יַעַן (H3282) 'because, inasmuch as'; strengthens the causal clause—obedience is the explicit ground.
אֲשֶׁ֤רthat/whichrelative pronoun · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Subordinate conjunctionאֲשֶׁר (H834) relative/subordinator; introduces the content of the ground clause.
עָשִׂ֨יתָ֙you have doneQal perf 2ms · עָשָׂה (H6213)Predicate verb (first reason)→ Perfective: completed obedient actעָשָׂה (H6213) 'to do, make'; Abraham's act of obedience is the ground of the divine oath.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks 'this thing' as the definite direct object.
הַדָּבָ֣רthe thing/matterart + N m sg abs · דָּבָר (H1697)Direct objectדָּבָר (H1697) 'word, thing, matter'; the entire act of obedience summarized in one word.
הַזֶּ֔הthisart + dem pron m sg · זֶה (H2088)Attributive demonstrativeזֶה (H2088) 'this'; demonstrative pointing to the specific act just performed on the mountain.
וְלֹ֥אand notconj וְ + negative · לֹא (H3808)Negative conjunctionלֹא (H3808) 'not'; coordinating negation; second reason = what Abraham refrained from doing.
חָשַׂ֖כְתָּyou withheldQal perf 2ms · חָשַׂךְ (H2820)Predicate verb (second reason)→ Perfective: completed act of non-withholdingחָשַׂךְ (H2820) 'to withhold, spare'; not withholding the only son proves the depth of obedience.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi.
בִּנְךָ֥your sonN m sg constr + 2ms suffix · בֵּן (H1121)Direct objectבֵּן (H1121) 'son'; echoing v2 language exactly—the oath mirrors the original command.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker (second apposition)אֵת (H853); repeated before the second appositive as in v2 and v12.
יְחִידֶֽךָyour only oneadj m sg constr + 2ms suffix · יָחִיד (H3173)Apposition to בִּנְךָיָחִיד (H3173) 'only, unique'; third occurrence in ch 22 (v2, v12, v16); underlines the uniqueness withheld.
17

כִּֽי בָרֵ֣ךְ אֲבָרֶכְךָ֗ וְהַרְבָּ֨ה אַרְבֶּ֤ה אֶֽת זַרְעֲךָ֙ כְּכוֹכְבֵ֣י הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם וְכַח֕וֹל אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל שְׂפַ֣ת הַיָּ֑ם וְיִרַ֣שׁ זַרְעֲךָ֔ אֵ֖ת שַׁ֥עַר אֹיְבָֽיו

that blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply your seed like the stars of the heavens and like the sand that is on the shore of the sea, and your seed shall possess the gate of his enemies,

Blessing intensified: the seed promise is restated in enlarged formכִּֽי
Word-by-word analysis· 19 words
כִּֽיthat/indeedconjunction · כִּי (H3588)Asseverative conjunctionכִּי (H3588) 'that, indeed'; here asseverative, introducing the oath's sworn content.
בָרֵ֣ךְblessingPiel inf abs · בָּרַךְ (H1288)Infinitive absolute (intensification)→ Infinitival absolute: emphatic intensification of following verbבָּרַךְ (H1288) Piel 'to bless'; inf abs before finite verb = emphatic: 'blessing I will bless' (I will surely bless).
אֲבָרֶכְךָ֗I will bless youPiel impf 1cs + 2ms suffix · בָּרַךְ (H1288)Main verb (sworn promise)→ Yiqtol: future/promissory — divine blessing swornבָּרַךְ (H1288) Piel 'to bless'; the intensified oath-backed promise of blessing to Abraham.
וְהַרְבָּ֨הand multiplyingconj וְ + Hiphil inf abs · רָבָה (H7235)Infinitive absolute (intensification)→ Infinitival absolute: emphatic intensificationרָבָה (H7235) Hiphil 'to multiply, increase'; inf abs before finite verb = emphatic intensification.
אַרְבֶּ֤הI will multiplyHiphil impf 1cs · רָבָה (H7235)Main verb (sworn promise)→ Yiqtol: future/promissory — seed will be multipliedרָבָה (H7235) Hiphil 'to multiply, increase'; the seed promise given solemnly under divine oath.
אֶֽת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks your seed as definite direct object of multiplication.
זַרְעֲךָ֙your seed/offspringN m sg constr + 2ms suffix · זֶרַע (H2233)Direct objectזֶרַע (H2233) 'seed, offspring'; the covenant term for the patriarchal descendant line; central to the promise.
כְּכוֹכְבֵ֣יlike stars ofprep כְּ + N m pl constr · כּוֹכָב (H3556)Comparative prepositional phraseכּוֹכָב (H3556) 'star'; simile for uncountable multitude; echoes Gen 15:5 where Abraham saw the stars.
הַשָּׁמַ֔יִםthe heavensart + N m pl abs · שָׁמַיִם (H8064)Genitive of כּוֹכְבֵישָׁמַיִם (H8064) 'heavens, sky'; the stars of heaven provide the first measure of the vast promise.
וְכַח֕וֹלand like the sandconj וְ + prep כְּ + art + N m sg abs · חוֹל (H2344)Second comparative phraseחוֹל (H2344) 'sand'; second simile for uncountable multitude paired with the stars.
אֲשֶׁ֖רwhich/thatrelative pronoun · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Relative clause headאֲשֶׁר (H834) relative marker; the sand is further specified by its location at the seashore.
עַלupon/onprep · עַל (H5921)Locative prepositionעַל (H5921) 'upon, over'; specifies the sand as the sand on the lip/shore of the sea.
שְׂפַ֣תthe shore/lip ofN f sg constr · שָׂפָה (H8193)Object of עַל (construct)שָׂפָה (H8193) 'lip, shore, edge'; construct: the lip/edge of the sea = the seashore.
הַיָּ֑םthe seaart + N m sg abs · יָם (H3220)Genitive of שְׂפַתיָם (H3220) 'sea'; 'the seashore' — sand on the sea's lip = second uncountable simile for seed.
וְיִרַ֣שׁand will possessconj וְ + Qal impf 3ms · יָרַשׁ (H3423)Yiqtol (sworn promise)→ Yiqtol: future/promissory — military-covenantal promiseיָרַשׁ (H3423) 'to possess, inherit, dispossess'; the military-covenantal promise: the seed will conquer enemies.
זַרְעֲךָ֔your seedN m sg constr + 2ms suffix · זֶרַע (H2233)Subjectזֶרַע (H2233) 'seed, offspring'; subject of the possession promise; the covenant line will prevail.
אֵ֖ת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks the gate of enemies as definite direct object.
שַׁ֥עַרthe gate ofN m sg constr · שַׁעַר (H8179)Direct object (construct head)שַׁעַר (H8179) 'gate'; possessing the gate = controlling the city = military victory; a merism for dominance.
אֹיְבָֽיוhis enemiesQal ptc m pl constr + 3ms suffix · אָיַב (H341)Genitive of שַׁעַר (construct)→ Participial: those who are actively hostileאָיַב (H341) 'to be hostile'; Qal ptc used as noun 'enemies'; the opponents of Abraham's seed.
18

וְהִתְבָּרֲכ֣וּ בְזַרְעֲךָ֔ כֹּ֖ל גּוֹיֵ֣י הָאָ֑רֶץ עֵ֕קֶב אֲשֶׁ֥ר שָׁמַ֖עְתָּ בְּקֹלִֽי

and in your seed all the nations of the earth shall bless themselves, because you have listened to my voice."

Universal horizon renewed: Abraham's obedience serves the blessing of nationsוְהִתְבָּרֲכ֣וּ
Word-by-word analysis· 9 words
וְהִתְבָּרֲכ֣וּwill bless themselvesconj וְ + Hitpael impf 3cp · בָּרַךְ (H1288)Hitpael impf (promissory)→ Yiqtol: future — reflexive/reciprocal self-blessingבָּרַךְ (H1288) Hitpael 'to bless oneself, be blessed in'; all nations invoke Abraham's seed in blessing.
בְזַרְעֲךָ֔in your seedprep בְּ + N m sg constr + 2ms suffix · זֶרַע (H2233)Locative/instrumental prepositional phraseזֶרַע (H2233) 'seed, offspring'; the medium through which the nations receive the blessing formula.
כֹּ֖לallN m sg constr · כֹּל (H3605)Subject (construct chain)כֹּל (H3605) 'all, every'; construct governing גּוֹיֵי; universal scope—no nation excluded.
גּוֹיֵ֣יnations ofN m pl constr · גּוֹי (H1471)Genitive of כֹּלגּוֹי (H1471) 'nation, people'; all the distinct peoples of the earth will invoke this blessing.
הָאָ֑רֶץthe earthart + N (c) sg abs · אֶרֶץ (H776)Genitive of גּוֹיֵיאֶרֶץ (H776) 'earth, land'; the universal horizon: all nations of the whole earth are in view.
עֵ֕קֶבbecause/on account ofN m sg abs (adv use) · עֵקֶב (H6118)Causal subordinatorעֵקֶב (H6118) 'heel; consequence, because'; lit. 'on the heel of'; causal: Abraham's obedience grounds the promise.
אֲשֶׁ֥רthatrelative pronoun · אֲשֶׁר (H834)Subordinate clause markerאֲשֶׁר (H834) relative marker; introduces the content clause specifying what Abraham did.
שָׁמַ֖עְתָּyou obeyedQal perf 2ms · שָׁמַע (H8085)Predicate verb→ Perfective: completed act of obedienceשָׁמַע (H8085) 'to hear, listen, obey'; שָׁמַע בְּקוֹל = to listen to the voice = to obey; the covenant obedience formula.
בְּקֹלִֽיto my voiceprep בְּ + N m sg constr + 1cs suffix · קוֹל (H6963)Prepositional phrase (indirect obj)קוֹל (H6963) 'voice'; שָׁמַע בְּקוֹל = to obey; YHWH's voice is the object of Abraham's faithful listening.
19

וַיָּ֤שָׁב אַבְרָהָם֙ אֶל נְעָרָ֔יו וַיָּקֻ֛מוּ וַיֵּלְכ֥וּ יַחְדָּ֖ו אֶל בְּאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב אַבְרָהָ֖ם בִּבְאֵ֥ר שָֽׁבַע

And Abraham returned to his young men, and they rose and went together to Beersheba, and Abraham dwelt at Beersheba.

Return completed: the mountain ordeal gives way to settled life againוַיָּ֤שָׁב
Word-by-word analysis· 14 words
וַיָּ֤שָׁבand he returnedconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · שׁוּב (H7725)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceשׁוּב (H7725) 'to return, turn back'; the ordeal is complete; the mountain ordeal gives way to return.
אַבְרָהָם֙Abrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Subjectאַבְרָהָם (H85); Abraham descends from the mountain and rejoins the servants.
אֶלtoprep · אֶל (H413)Directional prepositionאֶל (H413) 'to, toward'; Abraham returns to the servants left behind in v5.
נְעָרָ֔יוhis young menN m pl constr + 3ms suffix · נַעַר (H5288)Object of אֶלנַעַר (H5288) 'young man, servant'; the servants who waited with the donkey now rejoin the group.
וַיָּקֻ֛מוּand they aroseconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3mp · קוּם (H6965)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceקוּם (H6965) 'to rise, stand up'; the group's departure together begins.
וַיֵּלְכ֥וּand they wentconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3mp · הָלַךְ (H3212)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceהָלַךְ (H3212) 'to go, walk'; the full group now walks together toward Beersheba.
יַחְדָּ֖וtogetheradverb · יַחַד (H3162)Adverb of mannerיַחַד (H3162) 'together'; word used of Abraham and Isaac in vv6,8; now the whole group walks together.
אֶלtoprep · אֶל (H413)Directional prepositionאֶל (H413) 'to, toward'; directional toward Beersheba, the base camp.
בְּאֵ֣רBeershebaproper noun · בְּאֵר שֶׁבַע (H884)Object of אֶל (first element)בְּאֵר שֶׁבַע (H884) 'Beersheba'; 'well of seven/oath'; the settled place from which the journey began.
שָׁ֑בַעBeershebaproper noun · בְּאֵר שֶׁבַע (H884)Second element of place nameשָׁבַע component of H884 'Beersheba'; place name split across two tokens in the MT.
וַיֵּ֥שֶׁבand he dweltconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · יָשַׁב (H3427)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceיָשַׁב (H3427) 'to sit, dwell, settle'; ordinary patriarchal residence resumes after the mountain ordeal.
אַבְרָהָ֖םAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Subjectאַבְרָהָם (H85); Abraham's settlement at Beersheba closes the test episode with restored normalcy.
בִּבְאֵ֥רat Beershebaprep בְּ + proper noun · בְּאֵר שֶׁבַע (H884)Locative prepositional phraseבְּאֵר שֶׁבַע (H884) 'Beersheba'; prep בְּ + place name; Abraham settles back at his base.
שָֽׁבַעBeershebaproper noun · בְּאֵר שֶׁבַע (H884)Second element of place nameשָׁבַע component of H884; second token of the place name; the chapter's action ends here.
20

וַיְהִ֗י אַחֲרֵי֙ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה וַיֻּגַּ֥ד לְאַבְרָהָ֖ם לֵאמֹ֑ר הִ֠נֵּה יָלְדָ֨ה מִלְכָּ֥ה גַם הִ֛וא בָּנִ֖ים לְנָח֥וֹר אָחִֽיךָ

And it happened after these things that it was told to Abraham, saying, "Behold, Milcah, she also has borne sons to Nahor your brother:

Genealogical bridge: news from Nahor house reopens the family horizonוַיְהִ֗י
Word-by-word analysis· 15 words
וַיְהִ֗יand it happenedconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3ms · הָיָה (H1961)Predicate verb (narrative opener)→ Wayyiqtol: introduces new narrative episodeהָיָה (H1961) 'to be, happen'; וַיְהִי resumes narrative after the Aqedah, shifting to genealogical report.
אַחֲרֵי֙afterprep · אַחַר (H310)Temporal prepositionאַחַר (H310) 'after'; temporal marker echoing v1's opening formula; brackets the test episode.
הַדְּבָרִ֣יםthe thingsart + N m pl abs · דָּבָר (H1697)Object of אַחֲרֵידָּבָר (H1697) 'word, thing, matter'; 'these things' = the events just narrated on Moriah.
הָאֵ֔לֶּהtheseart + dem pron c pl · אֵלֶּה (H428)Attributive demonstrativeאֵלֶּה (H428) 'these'; brackets with v1's formula—the Aqedah episode is now concluded.
וַיֻּגַּ֥דand it was toldconj וַ + Hophal wayyiqtol 3ms · נָגַד (H5046)Hophal passive wayyiqtol→ Wayyiqtol: Hophal passive narrative advanceנָגַד (H5046) Hophal 'to be told, reported'; impersonal passive; Abraham receives news from Nahor's household.
לְאַבְרָהָ֖םto Abrahamprep לְ + proper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Indirect objectאַבְרָהָם (H85); the report is brought to Abraham who is now settled at Beersheba.
לֵאמֹ֑רsayingprep לְ + Qal inf constr · אָמַר (H559)Infinitive (quotation marker)→ Infinitival: introduces direct speechאָמַר (H559) 'to say'; לֵאמֹר is the standard formula introducing direct speech in Hebrew narrative.
הִ֠נֵּהbeholdpresentative particle · הִנֵּה (H2009)Presentative attention-getterהִנֵּה (H2009) 'behold, see'; draws attention to the announcement that Milcah has borne sons.
יָלְדָ֨הhas borne/given birthQal perf 3fs · יָלַד (H3205)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Perfective: completed birth eventיָלַד (H3205) 'to bear, give birth, beget'; the news of Milcah's children reaches Abraham.
מִלְכָּ֥הMilcahproper noun · מִלְכָּה (H4435)Subjectמִלְכָּה (H4435) 'Milcah'; wife of Nahor, Abraham's brother; mother of the eight sons listed.
גַםalso/evenadverb · גַּם (H1571)Adverbial particleגַּם (H1571) 'also, even'; even Milcah too has borne children; adds to the sense of family growth.
הִ֛ואshepers pron 3fs · הִיא (H1931)Subject (emphatic pronoun)הִיא (H1931) 'she'; emphatic independent pronoun; 'even she too' underscores the significance of the news.
בָּנִ֖יםsonsN m pl abs · בֵּן (H1121)Direct object of יָלְדָהבֵּן (H1121) 'son'; multiple sons; the list that follows names them individually.
לְנָח֥וֹרto Nahorprep לְ + proper noun · נָחוֹר (H5152)Indirect object (dative of benefit)נָחוֹר (H5152) 'Nahor'; Abraham's brother; the genealogy is of Nahor's household.
אָחִֽיךָyour brotherN m sg constr + 2ms suffix · אָח (H251)Apposition to Nahorאָח (H251) 'brother'; addresses Abraham directly; identifies the family connection prompting the news.
21

אֶת ע֥וּץ בְּכֹר֖וֹ וְאֶת בּ֣וּז אָחִ֑יו וְאֶת קְמוּאֵ֖ל אֲבִ֥י אֲרָֽם

Uz his firstborn, and Buz his brother, and Kemuel the father of Aram,

Nahor line listed: the genealogy begins with the primary sonsאֶת
Word-by-word analysis· 10 words
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object marker (list)אֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks Uz as the first definite direct object in the son list.
ע֥וּץUzproper noun · עוּץ (H5780)Direct object (first son)עוּץ (H5780) 'Uz'; firstborn of Nahor; eponym of the Uz region (cf. Job 1:1).
בְּכֹר֖וֹhis firstbornN m sg constr + 3ms suffix · בְּכוֹר (H1060)Apposition to עוּץבְּכוֹר (H1060) 'firstborn'; from root בכר; marks the primogeniture status of Uz in Nahor's line.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; coordinates second son in the list.
בּ֣וּזBuzproper noun · בּוּז (H938)Direct object (second son)בּוּז (H938) 'Buz'; second son of Nahor; eponym of the Buz region mentioned in Jer 25:23.
אָחִ֑יוhis brotherN m sg constr + 3ms suffix · אָח (H251)Apposition to בּוּזאָח (H251) 'brother'; apposition specifying Buz as brother of Uz; sibling bond noted.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; coordinates third son.
קְמוּאֵ֖לKemuelproper noun · קְמוּאֵל (H7055)Direct object (third son)קְמוּאֵל (H7055) 'Kemuel'; third son of Nahor; note that he is identified as father of Aram.
אֲבִ֥יfather ofN m sg constr · אָב (H1)Apposition (construct head)אָב (H1) 'father'; construct: Kemuel's identity is his role as father of Aram—the Arameans.
אֲרָֽםAramproper noun · אֲרָם (H758)Genitive of אֲבִיאֲרָם (H758) 'Aram'; ancestor of the Arameans; important for later patriarchal and national history.
22

וְאֶת כֶּ֣שֶׂד וְאֶת חֲז֔וֹ וְאֶת פִּלְדָּ֖שׁ וְאֶת יִדְלָ֑ף וְאֵ֖ת בְּתוּאֵֽל

and Chesed, and Hazo, and Pildash, and Jidlaph, and Bethuel.

Line continued: the list moves toward the branch that will matter nextוְאֶת
Word-by-word analysis· 10 words
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; continues the list of Nahor's sons from v21.
כֶּ֣שֶׂדChesedproper noun · כֶּשֶׂד (H3777)Direct object (fourth son)כֶּשֶׂד (H3777) 'Chesed'; fourth son of Nahor; eponym traditionally linked to the Chaldeans (Kasdim).
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; coordinates fifth son in the list.
חֲז֔וֹHazoproper noun · חֲזוֹ (H2375)Direct object (fifth son)חֲזוֹ (H2375) 'Hazo'; fifth son of Nahor; otherwise unattested in the biblical record.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; coordinates sixth son.
פִּלְדָּ֖שׁPildashproper noun · פִּלְדָּשׁ (H6394)Direct object (sixth son)פִּלְדָּשׁ (H6394) 'Pildash'; sixth son of Nahor; otherwise unknown outside this genealogy.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; coordinates seventh son.
יִדְלָ֑ףJidlaphproper noun · יִדְלָף (H3044)Direct object (seventh son)יִדְלָף (H3044) 'Jidlaph'; seventh son of Nahor; otherwise unattested.
וְאֵ֖תand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; coordinates the eighth and climactically important son.
בְּתוּאֵֽלBethuelproper noun · בְּתוּאֵל (H1328)Direct object (eighth son)בְּתוּאֵל (H1328) 'Bethuel'; eighth and last son of Milcah; his identity matters because of Rebekah (v23).
23

וּבְתוּאֵ֖ל יָלַ֣ד אֶת רִבְקָ֑ה שְׁמֹנָ֥ה אֵ֨לֶּה֙ יָלְדָ֣ה מִלְכָּ֔ה לְנָח֖וֹר אֲחִ֥י אַבְרָהָֽם

And Bethuel fathered Rebekah. These eight Milcah bore to Nahor, Abraham's brother.

Rebekah introduced: the genealogy reveals its narrative targetוּבְתוּאֵ֖ל
Word-by-word analysis· 11 words
וּבְתוּאֵ֖לand Bethuelconj וּ + proper noun · בְּתוּאֵל (H1328)Subjectבְּתוּאֵל (H1328) 'Bethuel'; singled out from the list because of the crucial descendant he fathered.
יָלַ֣דfathered/begotQal perf 3ms · יָלַד (H3205)Predicate verb (main clause)→ Perfective: completed act of begettingיָלַד (H3205) 'to bear, beget, father'; Bethuel's paternity of Rebekah is the genealogy's narrative target.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks Rebekah as the definite direct object of begetting.
רִבְקָ֑הRebekahproper noun · רִבְקָה (H7259)Direct objectרִבְקָה (H7259) 'Rebekah'; the genealogy's true goal; she will become Isaac's wife in ch 24.
שְׁמֹנָ֥הeightcardinal adj m sg abs · שְׁמֹנָה (H8083)Subject (recapitulation)שְׁמֹנָה (H8083) 'eight'; summarizes the count of sons Milcah bore; recapitulatory clause.
אֵ֨לֶּה֙thesedem pron c pl · אֵלֶּה (H428)Subject (compound)אֵלֶּה (H428) 'these'; demonstrative resuming the eight sons listed in vv21-22.
יָלְדָ֣הboreQal perf 3fs · יָלַד (H3205)Predicate verb (recapitulation)→ Perfective: completed births recapitulatedיָלַד (H3205) 'to bear, give birth'; the recapitulatory clause confirms Milcah bore all eight.
מִלְכָּ֔הMilcahproper noun · מִלְכָּה (H4435)Subjectמִלְכָּה (H4435) 'Milcah'; named again in the recapitulation to close the account of her sons.
לְנָח֖וֹרto Nahorprep לְ + proper noun · נָחוֹר (H5152)Indirect objectנָחוֹר (H5152) 'Nahor'; the sons were born to Nahor; the dative of benefit.
אֲחִ֥יbrother ofN m sg constr · אָח (H251)Apposition (construct head)אָח (H251) 'brother'; construct; identifies Nahor's relationship to the primary audience.
אַבְרָהָֽםAbrahamproper noun · אַבְרָהָם (H85)Genitive of אֲחִיאַבְרָהָם (H85); the genealogy is explicitly connected to Abraham by naming him as Nahor's brother.
24

וּפִֽילַגְשׁ֖וֹ וּשְׁמָ֣הּ רְאוּמָ֑ה וַתֵּ֤לֶד גַּם הִוא֙ אֶת טֶ֣בַח וְאֶת גַּ֔חַם וְאֶת תַּ֖חַשׁ וְאֶֽת מַעֲכָֽה

And his concubine, whose name was Reumah, she also bore Tebah and Gaham and Tahash and Maacah.

Concubine line added: Nahor household is shown in wider formוּפִֽילַגְשׁ֖וֹ
Word-by-word analysis· 14 words
וּפִֽילַגְשׁ֖וֹand his concubineconj וּ + N f sg constr + 3ms suffix · פִּילֶגֶשׁ (H6370)Subjectפִּילֶגֶשׁ (H6370) 'concubine, secondary wife'; Nahor's concubine Reumah adds a secondary line.
וּשְׁמָ֣הּand her nameconj וּ + N m sg constr + 3fs suffix · שֵׁם (H8034)Supplementary subject clauseשֵׁם (H8034) 'name'; the name clause identifies the concubine before listing her children.
רְאוּמָ֑הReumahproper noun · רְאוּמָה (H7208)Predicate of name clauseרְאוּמָה (H7208) 'Reumah'; Nahor's concubine; otherwise not mentioned elsewhere in the OT.
וַתֵּ֤לֶדand she boreconj וַ + Qal wayyiqtol 3fs · יָלַד (H3205)Wayyiqtol of narrative sequence→ Wayyiqtol: foregrounded narrative advanceיָלַד (H3205) 'to bear, give birth'; Reumah's children are listed in parallel to Milcah's sons.
גַּםalso/evenadverb · גַּם (H1571)Adverbial particleגַּם (H1571) 'also, even'; parallel to גַּם הִוא in v20; Reumah also bore children alongside Milcah.
הִוא֙shepers pron 3fs · הִיא (H1931)Subject (emphatic pronoun)הִיא (H1931) 'she'; emphatic pronoun; even the concubine bore children—Nahor's household is large.
אֶת[obj]obj marker · אֵת (H853)Direct-object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; marks Tebah as the first definite object in Reumah's son list.
טֶ֣בַחTebahproper noun · טֶבַח (H2875)Direct object (first child)טֶבַח (H2875) 'Tebah'; first son of Reumah; possibly linked to Betah near Damascus (2 Sam 8:8).
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; coordinates second child.
גַּ֔חַםGahamproper noun · גַּחַם (H1514)Direct object (second child)גַּחַם (H1514) 'Gaham'; second son of Reumah; otherwise unknown.
וְאֶתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; coordinates third child.
תַּ֖חַשׁTahashproper noun · תַּחַשׁ (H8477)Direct object (third child)תַּחַשׁ (H8477) 'Tahash'; third son of Reumah; name may be related to a dolphin/dugong skin word.
וְאֶֽתand [obj]conj וְ + obj marker · אֵת (H853)Conjunction + object markerאֵת (H853) nota accusativi; coordinates fourth and final child.
מַעֲכָֽהMaacahproper noun · מַעֲכָה (H4601)Direct object (fourth child)מַעֲכָה (H4601) 'Maacah'; fourth child of Reumah; eponym of the Maacah region northeast of the Sea of Galilee.