Genesis 20:5

Arabic Simplified (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

ألَمْ يَقُلْ لِي: ‹هَذِهِ أُختِي›؟ وَسَارَةُ نَفْسُهَا قَالَتْ عَنْهُ: ‹هَذَا أخِي.› أنَا فَعَلْتُ هَذَا بِنِيَّةٍ سَلِيمَةٍ وَقَصدٍ طَاهِرٍ.»

What Does This Mean?

Abraham is speaking to King Abimelech, explaining why he said Sarah was his sister instead of his wife. He claims he acted with honesty and innocence, trusting both his own words and Sarah's.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing hide and seek, and you tell your friend you're hiding in a special spot. Your friend agrees, but later on, you both get caught because someone else found you there. Abraham is like that friend, saying he didn't know he was doing anything wrong because he trusted what he and Sarah said.

Historical Background

This verse is part of the Book of Genesis, written by Moses around 1446-1406 B.C.E. It was meant for the Israelites to understand their ancestors' actions and God's involvement in their lives. The cultural setting involves polygamy and the practice of claiming a wife as a sister to avoid harm.

Living It Out Today

Consider a scenario where you innocently share information that you thought was true, but it causes confusion or harm. Like Abraham, you might need to explain your intentions and ask for understanding from those affected.

Topics

• integrity
• truth
• communication
• misunderstandings
• family relations
• trust

Related Verses

• Genesis 12:10-20
• Genesis 26:7-11
• 1 Samuel 20:29-34
• 1 Kings 2:13-21
• Matthew 5:33-37

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Abraham say Sarah was his sister?

Abraham feared that the people of the land would kill him to take Sarah because she was very beautiful. He believed that by saying she was his sister, he would be protected.

What does 'integrity of my heart and innocency of my hands' mean?

This phrase means Abraham believed he was acting honestly and without evil intent, relying on his own and Sarah's words.

How does this verse show the importance of communication in relationships?

This verse highlights how unclear communication can lead to misunderstandings and potential harm, emphasizing the need for clear and honest communication.

What can we learn from Abraham's actions?

We can learn the importance of being truthful and honest in our actions and words, even when we believe it might protect us from harm.