Genesis 20:3
But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and said to him, Behold, thou art but a dead man, for the woman which thou hast taken; for she is a man's wife.
Genesis 20:3 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Genesis, God speaks to Abimelech, the king of Gerar, in a dream to warn him about taking Sarah, who is actually Abraham's wife. Despite Abimelech's intentions being innocent, God delivers a powerful message to show the seriousness of the situation. By telling Abimelech that he is as good as dead for taking another man's wife, God demonstrates his commitment to protecting the sanctity of marriage and upholding the importance of faithfulness. This verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and his power to intervene in the lives of individuals to ensure his divine plan is carried out. It also emphasizes the consequences of actions taken without seeking God's guidance, no matter how unintentional they may seem. Through this dream, God reveals his authority and demands respect for the institution of marriage, showcasing his righteous and just nature.
Theological Overview
In this verse from Genesis 20:3, we see a theological interpretation of God's intervention in the affairs of Abimelech. The visitation of God to Abimelech in a dream highlights God's sovereignty and His active involvement in the lives of individuals. The phrase "Behold, thou art but a dead man" conveys the seriousness of Abimelech's actions in taking Sarah, who was actually Abraham's wife. This emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's commands, as seen in the consequences faced by Abimelech. Through this encounter, we can also draw lessons about the value of integrity and honor in our relationships, as well as the need to seek God's guidance in all our decisions. The word "dead man" in the passage indicates the grave consequences of Abimelech's actions, serving as a warning to us all to heed God's word and live in obedience to His will.
Genesis 20:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
But God came to Abimelech in a dream of the night, and said to him, Behold, thou art but a dead man, because of the woman whom thou hast taken; for she is a man's wife.
World English Bible
But God came to Abimelech in a dream of the night, and said to him, “Behold, you are a dead man, because of the woman whom you have taken. For she is a man’s wife.”
Douay-Rheims
And God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and he said to him: Lo thou shalt die for the woman that thou hast taken: for she hath a husband.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But God came to Abimelech in a dreame by night, and said to him, Beholde, thou art but dead, because of the woman, which thou hast taken: for she is a mans wife.