The land, &c.— See ch. Genesis 36:7. there was not sufficient pasturage for their cattle; insomuch that the shepherds and servants of each master began to quarrel and contend about it. A matter, which might have had bad effects, and therefore required immediate attention; for part of the land being then occupied by the Canaanite and the Perizzite, (nations, or people, so called, see Joshua 11:3; Joshua 17:15-16.) they might have improved this animosity and division into an occasion of destroying both Abram and Lot. Besides, as these people then possessed the country, this gives an additional reason why it was not able to afford a sufficient supply for the increasing herds and flocks of Abram and of Lot.
Observe here; Lot had got well by Abram's company: he had his blessing also. Those who suffer with God's people, shall share their joys as well as sorrows. But worldly riches are often the cause of much uneasiness, as was the care here. For,
1. There was not room for both, and they must divide or incommode one another. Thus every comfort has its cross.
2. Their numerous flocks proved a cause of dispute between their servants, too jealous perhaps for their masters' interest. How dangerous are riches! To them we may ascribe most of our disputes: for these, brother goeth to law against brother.
3. The danger, and, probably, offence incurred hereby. Danger, by their division: it is this, which usually ruins kingdoms, families, and, above all, churches. Offence: when professors of religion quarrel, they will assuredly make the ways of truth to be evil spoken of.