Old Testament
Genesis 13:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God is encouraging Abram to explore the land that He has promised to give him.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
"Get up and walk across the land, covering its full length and width, because I will give it to you."
Arise, walk through the land in the length of it and in the breadth of it; for I will give it unto thee.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is encouraging Abram to explore the land that He has promised to give him. By telling Abram to walk across the land, God is inviting him to experience the fullness of the promise. Walking through the land symbolizes taking ownership and understanding the vastness of what is being offered. It’s not just about receiving a gift; it’s about engaging with it, seeing it, and claiming it as your own. God’s promise is not just a distant hope; it’s a tangible reality waiting to be embraced. This moment is a call to action, urging Abram to step out in faith and trust in God’s word. It’s a reminder that sometimes we need to take steps forward to fully grasp what is available to us. God’s assurance that He will give the land to Abram reinforces the idea that His promises are reliable and meant to be acted upon. This verse encourages us to explore the opportunities and blessings in our lives, trusting that they are part of a greater plan for us to discover and enjoy. Explore related gods.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 13:17 to your life
Consider what promises or opportunities you might be overlooking in your life. Take a step forward, whether it’s pursuing a dream or engaging in a new relationship. Embrace the journey of discovery, trusting that you are supported in your endeavors. Remember, action often leads to clarity and fulfillment of what is promised to you. Don't hesitate to explore your potential and possibilities further, as they may lead to great rewards.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 13:17 mean?
Genesis 13:17 means that God is instructing Abram to physically explore the land He has promised to give him. This act of walking through the land symbolizes taking ownership and fully engaging with the promise.
What is the significance of walking in Genesis 13:17?
Walking in Genesis 13:17 signifies action and engagement with God's promise. It represents the importance of actively claiming and experiencing the blessings that God has in store.
How can I apply Genesis 13:17 to my life?
You can apply Genesis 13:17 by identifying opportunities or promises in your life that you may be overlooking. Taking proactive steps towards your goals can help you engage with and realize those promises.

The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
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