And Abraham ran unto the herd, and fetcht a calf tender and good, and gave it unto a young man; and he hasted to dress it.

GENESIS 18:7KJV
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Genesis 18:7 (KJV)

What does Genesis 18:7 mean?

Genesis 18:7 describes Abraham quickly going to his herd, choosing a young, tender, and good calf, and giving it to a young servant to prepare for his guests. The verse highlights Abraham’s eagerness and care in providing a generous meal for his visitors.

In this scene, Abraham is hosting three mysterious visitors near his tent. He personally selects the best animal from his herd and instructs a young man to prepare it quickly. The verse shows Abraham’s hospitality, his respect for his guests, and the urgency with which he serves them.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 18:7

  • The word "ran" (רָץ, rats) emphasizes Abraham’s eagerness and energy; he does not act slowly or reluctantly, but moves quickly to serve.
  • The word "calf" (בֶּן־בָּקָר, ben-bāqār) literally means "son of the herd," pointing to a young animal, which would be especially tender and desirable for a meal.
  • The word "tender" (רַךְ, rakh) and "good" (טוֹב, tov) together stress that Abraham chooses not just any animal, but one that is both gentle and of high quality, showing special care for his guests.
  • The word "hasted" (מָהַר, māhar) again underlines the speed and urgency with which Abraham prepares to meet his guests’ needs.

Why Genesis 18:7 matters

  • Genesis 18:7 helps clear up any idea that Abraham’s hospitality was casual or half-hearted; the language shows he went out of his way to honor his guests.
  • The verse connects to the wider story, where these visitors turn out to be messengers from God, making Abraham’s actions even more significant.
  • The details about Abraham’s choices and haste reveal the cultural importance of hospitality in the ancient world, and set the stage for the important message the visitors will soon deliver.

Where else these words appear

“tender” Hebrew H7390 · used in 16 verses

  • Genesis 29:17 Leah was tender eyed; but Rachel was beautiful and well favoured.
  • 2 Samuel 3:39 And I am this day weak, though anointed king; and these men the sons of Zeruiah be too hard for me: the LORD shall reward the doer of evil according to his wickedness.
  • Proverbs 4:3 For I was my father's son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother.

“hasted” Hebrew H4116 · used in 60 verses

  • Genesis 18:6 And Abraham hastened into the tent unto Sarah, and said, Make ready quickly three measures of fine meal, knead it, and make cakes upon the hearth.
  • Judges 13:10 And the woman made haste, and ran, and shewed her husband, and said unto him, Behold, the man hath appeared unto me, that came unto me the other day.
  • Esther 5:5 Then the king said, Cause Haman to make haste, that he may do as Esther hath said. So the king and Haman came to the banquet that Esther had prepared.

“ran” Hebrew H7323 · used in 92 verses

  • Genesis 18:2 And he lift up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood by him: and when he saw them, he ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself toward the ground,
  • 2 Samuel 18:23 But howsoever, said he, let me run. And he said unto him, Run. Then Ahimaaz ran by the way of the plain, and overran Cushi.
  • Job 9:25 Now my days are swifter than a post: they flee away, they see no good.