Genesis 22:5 (KJV)

What does Genesis 22:5 mean?

Genesis 22:5 shows Abraham telling his servants to stay behind with the donkey while he and his son Isaac go further to worship and then return. Abraham’s words suggest he expects both he and Isaac will come back, even though he knows God has asked him to sacrifice Isaac.

Abraham is speaking to his young servants as they arrive at the place God has shown him. He asks them to wait with the donkey while he and Isaac go “yonder” (a little farther) to worship. The verse quietly highlights Abraham’s faith and trust, as he tells the servants they will both return, despite the difficult command he is facing from God.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 22:5

• The word for “worship” is שָׁחָה (shachah), which means to bow down or prostrate oneself. In this context, it points to an act of deep reverence and submission to God, not just a ritual or song.
• The word for “lad” is נַעַר (na'ar), which can mean a boy, youth, or young man. This term shows Isaac is still young, but not necessarily a small child.
• The word for “again” is שׁוּב (shuv), meaning to return or come back. Abraham’s use of this word when he says “and come again to you” hints at his expectation that both he and Isaac will return, which adds a layer of faith to his statement.

Why Genesis 22:5 matters

• This verse is often noticed for Abraham’s confidence that both he and Isaac will return, which some readers see as a sign of his faith in God’s promise.
• The use of the word for “worship” here is significant, as it is the first time this word appears in the Bible, marking the moment as deeply important.
• Genesis 22:5 sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow, showing Abraham’s obedience and trust even before the test reaches its climax.