Genesis 22:14 - Peter Pett's Commentary on the Bible

Bible Comments

‘And Abraham called the name of that place ‘Yahweh Yir'eh'. As it is said to this day, “In the mount of Yahweh it will be provided ”.'

The naming of a place was an important matter for ancient peoples, especially when it commemorated a theophany. For that place became accepted as a sacred place, and many would go there for religious purposes. But no well known name is given here. It was a private naming in a spot which, though it would ever be sacred to Abraham, would not be known to the world. ‘Yahweh yir'eh' means ‘God sees'. What it did result in was a well known proverb which the editor of the tablets adds on. We may paraphrase the comment ‘Yahweh will provide for those who truly seek Him.'

Genesis 22:14

14 And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh:c as it is said to this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen.