Genesis 20:9
Then Abimelech called Abraham, and said unto him, What hast thou done unto us? and what have I offended thee, that thou hast brought on me and on my kingdom a great sin? thou hast done deeds unto me that ought not to be done.
Genesis 20:9 · King James Version
Meaning
Abimelech's words to Abraham in this verse reflect his confusion and frustration at the situation that has unfolded. Abimelech questions Abraham about his actions, asking why he has brought harm upon him and his kingdom. The mention of a "great sin" suggests that Abimelech believed Abraham's actions had serious consequences. Abimelech also expresses a sense of betrayal, asking why Abraham would do something that should not have been done. This confrontation highlights the impact of Abraham's deception regarding Sarah, leading to consequences that affected not only Abimelech but his entire kingdom. It serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and the potential repercussions of deceit in relationships and communities.
Theological Overview
Abimelech's confrontation with Abraham in this verse highlights the consequences of Abraham's deception regarding Sarah. The theological interpretation of this passage shows the importance of honesty and integrity in relationships. Abimelech's question, "What hast thou done unto us?" reflects the confusion and harm caused by Abraham's actions. It also brings to light the severity of sin and its ripple effects on others. Additionally, Abimelech's inquiry about why Abraham would bring such wrongdoing upon him and his kingdom speaks to the concept of accountability within the biblical narrative.
Word studies can provide further insight into the text. The phrase "a great sin" emphasizes the gravity of the situation and underscores the moral implications of Abraham's behavior. The use of "offended" suggests a sense of betrayal or wrongdoing on Abraham's part. The lamentation that Abraham has done deeds that "ought not to be done" emphasizes the violation of ethical norms and the importance of moral conduct in relationships. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of deceit and the necessity of upholding truth and righteousness.
Genesis 20:9 in other translations
American Standard Version
Then Abimelech called Abraham, and said unto him, What hast thou done unto us? and wherein have I sinned against thee, that thou hast brought on me and on my kingdom a great sin? thou hast done deeds unto me that ought not to be done.
World English Bible
Then Abimelech called Abraham, and said to him, “What have you done to us? How have I sinned against you, that you have brought on me and on my kingdom a great sin? You have done deeds to me that ought not to be done!”
Douay-Rheims
And Abimelech called also for Abraham, and said to him: What hast thou done to us? what have we offended thee in, that thou hast brought upon me and upon my kingdom a great sin? thou hast done to us what thou oughtest not to do.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Afterward Abimelech called Abraham, and said vnto him, What hast thou done vnto vs? and what haue I offeded thee, that thou hast brought on me and on my kingdome this great sinne? thou hast done things vnto me that ought not to be done.