Genesis 21:30Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

In the passage where it states ‘The Well of the Oath,’ the Hebrew version uses the term bersabee (שָׁ֑בַע-בְּאֵ֣ר). The significance of this name is explained in two ways: either because Abimelech accepted seven lambs from Abraham, with ‘seven’ in Hebrew being sabee (שָׁ֑בַע), or due to the oath that was sworn there, as the word for ‘oath’ similarly resembles sabee (הפְּשָׁ֑בַ). If we have encountered this name previously in the Book of Genesis, prior to this explanation, it is important to recognize that the naming was made in anticipation of future events, similar to the way Bethel and Galgala were named—names that did not apply until later.

The lambs, in essence, did not represent proof of the act itself, but rather symbolized the genuineness of Abraham's confidence and Abimelech's acknowledgement of it. The physical world, where emotions and ideas were randomly linked, was regarded with the same trust that we have in written language today. Thus, the hill stands as a testimony (Genesis 31:46, 47), and the individuals involved serve as witnesses (Gen. 31:46, 47). Therefore, the hill of testimony (Gen. 31:46, 47) and the parties involved testify to this truth.