Old Testament
Genesis 26:14
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, we see a man who has been blessed with great wealth and resources.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
He owned flocks, herds, and a large number of servants, and the Philistines became jealous of him.
For he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a man who has been blessed with great wealth and resources. He owns many flocks and herds, which indicates prosperity in agriculture and livestock. Additionally, he has a large number of servants, suggesting he has a significant household and influence. However, this success leads to jealousy among the Philistines, who feel threatened by his prosperity. Their envy highlights how success can sometimes provoke negative feelings in others. This situation reminds us that when we achieve success, it can attract both admiration and resentment. It’s important to remain humble and gracious, even when others may not respond positively to our achievements. The story encourages us to focus on our blessings and to be mindful of how we treat others, regardless of their feelings towards us. Ultimately, it’s a lesson in navigating the complexities of relationships and success in life, showing that prosperity can come with its own challenges and responsibilities.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 26:14 to your life
When you experience success, remember that it can evoke mixed reactions from those around you. Stay humble and gracious, acknowledging your blessings without boasting. Focus on building positive relationships, even with those who may feel envious. Your attitude can influence how others perceive your achievements and can foster goodwill instead of resentment. Keep your heart open and kind, regardless of others' feelings.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 26:14 mean?
Genesis 26:14 describes a man who is prosperous, owning many flocks, herds, and servants. His wealth causes jealousy among the Philistines, highlighting how success can lead to envy from others.
What is the significance of jealousy in Genesis 26:14?
The jealousy of the Philistines in Genesis 26:14 illustrates how prosperity can provoke negative feelings in others. It serves as a reminder that success can attract both admiration and resentment.
What does the phrase 'great store of servants' mean in Genesis 26:14?
The phrase 'great store of servants' indicates that the man had a large household and significant influence, suggesting he was not only wealthy but also held a position of power in his community.
What lessons can we learn from Genesis 26:14?
Genesis 26:14 teaches us to remain humble in the face of success and to be mindful of how our achievements may affect others. It encourages building positive relationships despite potential jealousy.
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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