Genesis 12

Genesis 12:1

HAd said] Before he came to Haran:

Genesis 12:2

A blessing] Blessed every way: as if all blessings wer gathered together in thee, or a patterne of a compleat blessing.

Genesis 12:3

Shall] Not only because Abraham should bee a patterne of a Soveraigne blessing: as Genesis 48:20. But chiefely because the blessing of Gods grace should spread it selfe over all people indifferently, under the Messias: so that in imitation of Abrahams faith; in the promises of the Redeemer, they should become his spirituall progeny. Romans 4:11-12. Gal. 1. 7. 9. Of which, their blessing Abraham was the head, but onely in the title and honour. But Christ, who came from him according to the flesh, is the true author and spring of it: therefore in another place in stead of blessed in thee, is set downe, blessed in thy posterity.

Genesis 12:5

Thesoules] The Italian hath it, The persons] and so the Hebrew word is, that is to say, men & women servants: for slavery was then in use, and approved by God himselfe, though the beginning of it be not set downe and declared unto us. Which might bee either for a punishment of rebellions against naturall and mild subjections: or by reason of warre, or through incapacity of understanding; or through poverty. But chiefely it seemes that the first slaves were of the accursed generation of Cam: and condemned unto it. Gen. 9. 25. 26, 27.

Genesis 12:6

The plaine] Or the Grove, or Thicket of Oaks.

Genesis 12:8

Bethel] This place is here so called by anticipation, for it was then called Luz. See Genesis 28:19.

Genesis 12:15

Pharaoh] A common name of the Kings of Egypt even in those dayes: and it may signifie a defender, a revenger, or a freer.

Genesis 12:17

Plagues] That is, sicknesses, and other mournfull accidents; by which Pharaoh finding it to bee a divine vengeance, it is likely he did enquire the reason of it, and did finde it out by some unknowne meanes.

Genesis 12:20

Commanded] To see that he should have no injury done him by any one.