Genesis 11:31

Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

وَأخَذَ تَارَحُ ابْنَهُ أبْرَامَ، وَحَفِيدَهُ لُوطًا، ابْنَ ابْنِهِ هَارَانَ، وَكَنَّتَهُ سَارَايَ، زَوْجَةَ ابْنِهِ أبْرَامَ، وَتَرَكُوا أُورَ الكِلْدَانِيِّينَ لِيَتَّجِهُوا إلَى أرْضِ كَنْعَانَ. لَكِنَّهُمْ لَمَّا وَصَلُوا حَارَانَ، اسْتَقَرُّوا هُنَاكَ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes Terah taking his son Abram, his grandson Lot, and his daughter-in-law Sarai, and leaving Ur of the Chaldees to go to Canaan. However, they settle in Haran instead of continuing to Canaan. This passage is part of the larger narrative about the journey of Abram, the patriarch of Israel.

Explained for Children

Imagine you and your family are moving to a new city because God tells your dad it's the right thing to do. Your family packs up and leaves your home, but instead of going all the way to the new city, you stop at a place called Haran and decide to stay there for a while. That's kind of what happened with Terah and his family.

Historical Background

This passage is part of the Book of Genesis, traditionally attributed to Moses. It was written around 1446-1406 BCE, likely for the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. The cultural setting involves a family of people who were leaving their homeland to follow God's direction to a new land, reflecting the common practice of migration in the ancient Near East.

Living It Out Today

This verse can be applied to modern life as a reminder that sometimes our plans or journeys can take unexpected turns. Like Terah's family stopping in Haran instead of going to Canaan, we may find ourselves in situations we didn't plan for, but we can still trust in God's guidance and purpose.

Topics

• migration
• family
• divine guidance
• promise
• faith
• trust

Related Verses

• Genesis 12:1-4
• Joshua 24:2-3
• Acts 7:2-4
• Hebrews 11:8-10
• Joshua 24:14

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Terah and his family move from Ur?

Terah and his family moved from Ur to Canaan, likely following a divine call or a promise, though the specific reason is not detailed in this verse.

What is the significance of Haran?

Haran was a stopping point for Terah and his family on their journey from Ur to Canaan. It became significant as the place where Abram's journey truly began after Terah's death.

Who are the key people mentioned in Genesis 11:31?

The key people are Terah, Abram (Abraham), Lot, and Sarai (Sarah). They are foundational figures in the early history of the Israelites.

How does this verse connect to the larger narrative of Genesis?

This verse sets the stage for Abram's journey and God's promises to him, which are central to the narrative of the Israelites and the unfolding of God's plan in Genesis.