Genesis 13:7Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Observe how the servants provoke conflict; indeed, negativity often stems from the poor disposition of the servants. As it is noted, a contention arose among the shepherds. They are the instigators of division, disruptors of unity, and display persistent animosity toward one another. The Canaanites and the Perizzites were residing in that territory. Why does the sacred text bring this to our attention? It points out that the land was not conducive for their cohabitation, thereby revealing the reasoning—specifically, that the land was inappropriate for them because it remained occupied by those nations. Now let us reflect on the God-fearing character of the patriarch, who, through his gentleness, quenches the approaching blaze of conflict.

For this reason, the discontented servants of Lot were sent by God's justice to the inhabitants of Sodom, who were equally discontented, so that they might face punishment together, and God caused Lot to be removed from their presence.

Let us examine the role of shepherds, the types of flocks they guide, and the conflict that arose between the herdsmen of Abraham and those of Lot. Shepherds serve as the guardians of their flocks, and they may exhibit qualities of diligence and wisdom, ensuring that their animals do not damage the fields, or they may display negligence and laziness, failing to keep their cattle grazing in the meadows instead of the crops, ultimately allowing them to roam freely among the harvest. It is important to observe these shepherds with care, as we should not attribute the consequences of the careless to those who are diligent. Now, since the focus here is not solely on the physical realm, let us first reflect on the kinds of animals these shepherds were overseeing.

The inhabitants of this region included both the Canaanites and the Perizzites. It is likely that the term Canaanites does not encompass all of Canaan but rather designates a specific tribe, as evidenced by the inclusion of the Perizzites among the descendants of Canaan. The term Perizzites translates to "villagers," and they indeed resided in the mountainous areas (Hab. 11:3). After discussing the conflict within Abram's household, one may wonder why Moses brings up the Canaanites and Perizzites. Some suggest it highlights the significant discord that fractured the two families, despite the potential for unity among foreign nations. Others propose that Moses aimed to emphasize the urgent need to resolve the strife, as outside parties could threaten the well-being of both kin groups.