Old Testament
Genesis 13:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
This was the location of the altar he had built earlier, and there Abram called on the name of the LORD.
Compare translations
Unto the place of the altar, which he had made there at the first: and there Abram called on the name of the LORD.
What Genesis 13:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Abram returns to a significant place where he had previously built an altar. This altar symbolizes his relationship with God and his commitment to worship. By calling on the name of the LORD, Abram is expressing his faith and reliance on God. It’s a moment of reconnection, showing that despite life's challenges, he seeks to honor God. This act of worship is not just a ritual; it reflects Abram's heart and his desire to communicate with God. The altar serves as a reminder of God's presence and promises. For us, it highlights the importance of having places or moments in our lives where we can pause, reflect, and reach out to God. Just as Abram did, we can create our own sacred spaces to nurture our spiritual lives and deepen our relationship with the divine. This passage encourages us to remember our commitments and to actively seek God in our daily lives, reinforcing the idea that worship is a vital part of our journey of faith. It’s about making space for God amidst our busy lives.
How to apply Genesis 13:4 to your life
Consider creating a personal space or time for reflection and prayer in your life. This could be a quiet corner in your home or a moment during your day. Use this time to connect with God, express your thoughts, and seek guidance. Remember, it’s about nurturing your relationship with the divine and honoring your commitments to faith. Make it a regular practice to call on God in your life, just as Abram did at his
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Abraham's story: Abram and Lot Part Ways (Genesis 13:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Abraham
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Genesis 13:4
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Genesis 13:4
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 13:4 teach about worship?
Genesis 13:4 highlights the importance of worship in Abram's life. By returning to the altar he built, Abram demonstrates his commitment to honoring God. This act of calling on the name of the LORD signifies a personal relationship with God, emphasizing that worship is not just a ritual but a heartfelt expression of faith and reliance on the divine.
Why is the altar significant in Genesis 13:4?
The altar in Genesis 13:4 represents a physical space where Abram connected with God. It symbolizes his faith and commitment to worship. This location serves as a reminder of God's presence and promises in Abram's life, illustrating the importance of having sacred spaces where we can reflect and communicate with God.
How can I apply Genesis 13:4 in my daily life?
You can apply Genesis 13:4 by creating your own sacred space for reflection and prayer. Set aside a specific time and place to connect with God, just as Abram did. Use this time to express your thoughts, seek guidance, and nurture your relationship with the divine. Regularly calling on God can help deepen your faith and commitment.
What does calling on the name of the LORD mean?
Calling on the name of the LORD, as Abram did in Genesis 13:4, means reaching out to God in prayer and worship. It signifies a desire for communication and connection with the divine. This act reflects faith, trust, and reliance on God, highlighting the importance of actively seeking God's presence in our lives.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.