Overview of the Verse

This verse occurs within the narrative involving Abraham, Sarah, and Abimelech, the king of Gerar. After taking Sarah into his house, Abimelech realizes she is married and seeks to make amends by providing a dowry. This act illustrates both Abimelech's respect for Sarah's marital status and God's protective hand over her and Abraham.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity. He points out that Abimelech, although initially deceived, acted honorably by offering restitution for the wrong done. The phrase "a covering of the eyes" implies protection and acknowledgment of Sarah’s honor.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes notes that this situation highlights the providence of God in protecting His people. He indicates that Abimelech's actions serve as a reproof to Abraham for his lack of faith, demonstrating that even a pagan king can act righteously while God's chosen may falter.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke elaborates on the cultural implications of the silver as a token of respect and a means of making peace. He further interprets “covering of the eyes” as protection, suggesting that this act restores Sarah’s dignity and reaffirms her position in the eyes of Abimelech's household.

Key Themes

• Divine Protection: The narrative indicates that God intervenes in human affairs to protect His elect, ensuring the promise to Abraham remains intact.
• Human Conduct: The response of Abimelech highlights the importance of moral integrity, even among those outside the covenant community.
• Description of Relationships: The word "brother" refers to the kinship introduced by their marriage, pointing out the significance of family in sustaining honor.

Cross-References

This verse connects with several others that highlight similar themes of protection, integrity, and divine intervention:

• Genesis 12:17 - God's protection over Sarai during Abraham's earlier deception in Egypt.
• Genesis 20:3 - God's warning to Abimelech in a dream highlights God's direct intervention.
• Genesis 21:22-23 - Abimelech acknowledges God's favor upon Abraham.
• Exodus 20:14 - The commandment regarding adultery underscores the sanctity of marriage.
• 2 Samuel 11:2-5 - David's affair with Bathsheba reflects the consequences of failing to uphold marital commitment.
• 1 Corinthians 6:18 - New Testament teaching on fleeing sexual immorality emphasizes the significance of marital fidelity.
• Proverbs 6:32 - Adultery is presented as a destructive act, reinforcing the value of marital honor.

Inter-Biblical Dialogue

The interactions between Abraham, Sarah, and Abimelech in Genesis 20 create a thematic bridge to numerous scriptural discussions on morality, fidelity, and the role of God in human affairs:

• Comparison of Abraham’s experiences with Saul's fall in 1 Samuel showcases leadership failures in moral judgment.
• Genesis 21 mirrors the theme of divine promise fulfilled through continued interactions between the covenant people and outsiders.
• Linking to Gospels where Jesus addresses issues of the heart related to fidelity and integrity (e.g., Matthew 5:27-28).

Closing Reflection

Genesis 20:16 serves as a vital reminder of God's sovereignty and the call for humans to exercise integrity. The narrative indicates that even amidst deception, God’s plan prevails, and He uses circumstances to reveal His justice and grace. Understanding this verse through the lenses of various commentaries and cross-references enriches our appreciation of the overarching biblical narrative.