Old Testament
Genesis 14:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"that I will not accept so much as a single thread or a sandal strap—nothing at all that belongs to you—so that you can never claim, 'I made Abram rich.'
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That I will not take from a thread even to a shoelatchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich:
What Genesis 14:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Abram is making a strong statement about his independence and integrity. He refuses to accept any gifts or rewards from the king of Sodom, emphasizing that he does not want anyone to think they made him wealthy. By rejecting even the smallest items, like a thread or a sandal strap, Abram is asserting that his wealth and blessings come from God alone. This decision reflects his commitment to trust in divine provision rather than human generosity. Abram understands the importance of maintaining his integrity and reputation, ensuring that his relationship with God remains untainted by worldly influences. His actions serve as a powerful reminder that true wealth is not measured by material possessions but by faith and trust in God. This moment highlights the significance of making choices that align with one's values, even when faced with tempting offers. Abram's example encourages us to seek our fulfillment and identity in our relationship with God, rather than in what others can provide.
How to apply Genesis 14:23 to your life
We can learn from Abram's example by prioritizing our values over material gain. When faced with tempting offers, we should consider how they align with our integrity and faith. Trusting in God for our needs can lead to true fulfillment and peace in our lives. Remember, our worth is not defined by what others give us, but by our relationship with God. Choose wisely in your pursuits and relationships, focusing on what truly matters.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Abraham's story: Melchizedek Blesses Abram (Genesis 14:17–24)
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Abraham
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Keep studying Genesis 14:23
Related Bible verses
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 14:23 teach about wealth?
Genesis 14:23 highlights the importance of integrity and the source of true wealth. Abram refuses to accept any gifts from the king of Sodom to ensure that no one can claim credit for his prosperity. This teaches us that our wealth should come from God, not from human generosity, and emphasizes the value of maintaining our integrity in all dealings.
Why did Abram refuse gifts from the king of Sodom?
Abram refused gifts from the king of Sodom to assert his independence and integrity. By rejecting even the smallest items, he wanted to make it clear that his wealth was not a result of human generosity but a blessing from God. This decision reflects his commitment to trust in divine provision rather than worldly influences.
How can we apply Abram's decision in our lives?
We can apply Abram's decision by prioritizing our values over material gain. When faced with tempting offers, we should evaluate how they align with our integrity and faith. Trusting in God for our needs can lead to true fulfillment, reminding us that our worth is defined by our relationship with God, not by what others provide.
What is the main message of Genesis 14:23?
The main message of Genesis 14:23 is the importance of trusting in God's provision and maintaining integrity. Abram's refusal to accept gifts from the king of Sodom underscores that true wealth comes from God, and it encourages us to seek fulfillment in our relationship with Him rather than in material possessions or human generosity.
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