Old Testament
Genesis 26:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He built an altar there and called on the name of the LORD. He set up his tent in that place, and his servants dug a well there.
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And he builded an altar there, and called upon the name of the LORD, and pitched his tent there: and there Isaac’s servants digged a well.
What Genesis 26:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Isaac demonstrates his faith by building an altar, a place of worship and connection with God. Calling on the name of the LORD signifies his reliance on divine guidance and support. Setting up his tent shows his commitment to stay in this sacred space, where he can nurture his relationship with God. The act of digging a well represents the practical needs of life, ensuring that he and his family have water. This combination of spiritual and physical actions illustrates a balanced life, where faith and daily needs coexist. Isaac's actions remind us that our spiritual journey often involves tangible steps that support our well-being. By prioritizing our relationship with God, we can find strength and direction in our lives, just as Isaac did in his. This passage encourages us to create spaces for worship and to take care of our basic needs, reflecting a holistic approach to living faithfully in the world around us. It’s a call to integrate faith into every aspect of our lives.
How to apply Genesis 26:25 to your life
Consider how you can create a space for spiritual reflection in your life. This could be a physical place or a routine that helps you connect with your beliefs. Remember to also address your practical needs, ensuring a balanced approach to life and faith. Trust in God as you navigate both aspects daily. Seek harmony between your spiritual and everyday life experiences, just like Isaac did in his journey with God. “,” “,” “,” “,”
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Isaac's story: The Wells of Isaac (Genesis 26:12–33)
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Isaac

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.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Genesis 26:25
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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 26:25 mean?
Genesis 26:25 shows Isaac building an altar to worship God, indicating his faith and reliance on divine guidance. He also sets up a tent and digs a well, demonstrating a balance between spiritual devotion and practical needs.
What is the significance of building an altar in Genesis 26:25?
Building an altar in Genesis 26:25 signifies Isaac's commitment to worship and connect with God. It represents a physical space for spiritual reflection and reliance on God's presence in his life.
What does calling on the name of the LORD mean in this verse?
Calling on the name of the LORD in Genesis 26:25 indicates Isaac's trust in God for guidance and support. It reflects his active faith and desire for a relationship with God.
Why did Isaac dig a well in Genesis 26:25?
Isaac dug a well in Genesis 26:25 to ensure that he and his family had a reliable source of water. This action highlights the importance of addressing practical needs while maintaining spiritual commitments.
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