What does Genesis 26:17 mean?
During a famine (Genesis 26:1), God had instructed Isaac to stay in the land of Gerar instead of heading into the fertile valleys of Egypt (Genesis 26:2–3). Though others would have been struggling, Isaac reaps a hundredfold harvest from his planting (Genesis 26:12). This prosperity boom generates both envy (Genesis 26:14) and fear (Genesis 26:16) in the local people. As a result, King Abimelech has told Isaac to move somewhere else.Isaac's response is interesting, given that God has specifically told him not to leave Gerar to seek better conditions in Egypt. Rather than leave entirely, Isaac settles his large company in an area known as the Valley of Gerar. This is, it seems, some distance from the main population. As the next verse will reveal, his first task will be to find water to support his herds and flocks—which will result in continued conflict.
Genesis 26:6–35 describes Isaac's interactions with the Philistines while living in and around the land of Gerar. After Isaac is caught in a lie about Rebekah being his sister, king Abimelech is angry. However, he protects Isaac and Rebekah. God blesses Isaac abundantly, and his wealth grows to the point where his power provokes the king to send him away. Following a series of disputes over water rights, the king and Isaac eventually make a treaty of peace. God appears to Isaac for a second time, telling him not to fear, and renewing His promises.
Genesis 26 focuses on God's assurances to Isaac to be with him and to bless him, mostly while Isaac and his household are settled in the land of the Philistines. Just as Abraham did, Isaac fearfully lies about his wife being his sister, nearly bringing disaster on Abimelech and his kingdom. Still, God blesses Isaac with greater and greater abundance to the point that Abimelech sends Isaac away because he has become too powerful. After continued disputes over water rights, Abimelech and Isaac eventually make a covenant of peace.
