Old Testament
Genesis 22:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Abraham reached out his hand and picked up the knife to kill his son.
Compare translations
And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son.
What Genesis 22:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Abraham is faced with an unimaginable test of faith. He has been asked to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac, whom he waited so long to have. As he raises the knife, he demonstrates his willingness to obey God, even when it seems impossible. This act shows the depth of his trust and commitment. Abraham believes that God has a plan, even if he cannot see it. Just as he is about to carry out the act, an angel intervenes, stopping him and providing a ram as a substitute sacrifice. This story highlights the themes of faith, obedience, and divine provision. It challenges us to consider how far we would go to follow our beliefs and what we might be asked to give up in our own lives. Abraham's story is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the greatest tests lead to the most profound revelations about ourselves and our relationship with the divine. It encourages us to trust in a greater purpose, even in our darkest moments, and to remain open to unexpected outcomes.
How to apply Genesis 22:10 to your life
Reflect on what you hold most dear in your life. Are you willing to let go of it if it means following your beliefs? This story encourages us to trust in a higher purpose and to be open to the unexpected ways our lives can unfold. Consider how you can demonstrate your faith in daily actions and decisions. Trust that there is a plan for you, even when it’s hard to see it clearly.
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: God Provides a Ram (Genesis 22:9–19)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Abraham
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. 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.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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 22:10
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 22:10
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 22:10 mean?
Genesis 22:10 describes Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac in obedience to God's command. This moment illustrates the depth of Abraham's faith and trust in God, even when faced with an unimaginable request.
What is the significance of Abraham raising the knife in Genesis 22:10?
Abraham raising the knife signifies his complete obedience and trust in God, showing that he was prepared to follow God's command without hesitation, despite the emotional turmoil it caused him.
What does the act of sacrifice in Genesis 22:10 represent?
The act of sacrifice in Genesis 22:10 represents the ultimate test of faith and obedience. It highlights the theme of being willing to give up what is most precious in order to follow God's will.
How does Genesis 22:10 relate to the theme of divine provision?
Genesis 22:10 sets the stage for God's provision, as Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac leads to the intervention of an angel and the provision of a ram as a substitute sacrifice, demonstrating that God provides for those who trust Him.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.