Old Testament
Genesis 21:33
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba and called on the name of the LORD there, the everlasting God.
Compare translations
And Abraham planted a grove in Beersheba, and called there on the name of the LORD, the everlasting God.
What Genesis 21:33 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Abraham takes a significant step by planting a tamarisk tree in Beersheba. This act symbolizes his commitment to the land and his relationship with God. By calling on the name of the LORD, he acknowledges God's eternal nature and presence. The tamarisk tree serves as a lasting reminder of his faith and the covenant he has with God. It represents stability and hope in a place where he can worship freely. Abraham's actions reflect a deep trust in God's promises, showing that he is not just a wanderer but a man who establishes roots. This moment highlights the importance of creating sacred spaces in our lives where we can connect with the divine. It encourages us to recognize the significance of our actions and the places we choose to honor our faith. Abraham's legacy continues to inspire us to cultivate our own spiritual practices and to remember the everlasting nature of God in our lives. His planting of the tree is a testament to faith that endures through generations.
How to apply Genesis 21:33 to your life
Consider creating a personal space for reflection and prayer in your life. This could be a physical location or a routine that helps you connect with your beliefs. Remember that your actions can have lasting significance, just like Abraham's tree. Cultivate your faith daily and acknowledge the divine in your life. Let your commitment inspire others around you to seek their own spiritual roots and connections with God. “,” “,” “,” “,” “,” “,” “,”
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: The Well at Beersheba (Genesis 21:22–34)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Abraham

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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 21:33
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 21:33
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 21:33 mean?
Genesis 21:33 describes Abraham planting a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, symbolizing his commitment to the land and his relationship with God. By calling on the name of the LORD, he acknowledges God's eternal nature and establishes a place for worship.
What is the significance of the tamarisk tree in Genesis 21:33?
The tamarisk tree in Genesis 21:33 represents stability and a lasting reminder of Abraham's faith and covenant with God. It signifies his intention to establish roots in the land and create a sacred space for worship.
What does calling on the name of the LORD mean in Genesis 21:33?
In Genesis 21:33, calling on the name of the LORD signifies Abraham's acknowledgment of God's eternal presence and his desire to worship. It reflects a personal relationship with God and a commitment to faith.
What themes are present in Genesis 21:33?
Genesis 21:33 encompasses themes of faith, commitment, worship, legacy, and the divine presence. It highlights the importance of establishing a connection with God and the significance of one's actions in faith.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.