What Does Genesis 13:5-9 Mean?
Genesis 13:5-9 describes how Abram and Lot separated because their flocks and herds had grown so large that the land could no longer support both of them living together. There was strife between their herdsmen, but Abram chose peace by offering Lot the first choice of land, showing generosity and trust in God’s promise. Even though they parted ways, God reaffirmed His covenant with Abram, promising him all the land he could see. This moment highlights faith, humility, and God’s faithfulness even in times of division.
Genesis 13:5-9
Now Lot, who went with Abram, also had flocks and herds and tents, The land could not support both of them dwelling together; for their possessions were so great that they could not dwell together, And there was strife between the herdsmen of Abram's livestock and the herdsmen of Lot's livestock. At that time the Canaanites and the Perizzites were dwelling in the land. Then Abram said to Lot, “Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are kinsmen. Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself from me. If you take the left hand, then I will go to the right, or if you take the right hand, then I will go to the left."
Key Facts
Book
Author
Moses
Genre
Narrative
Date
Approximately 1440 BC
Key Takeaways
- True faith trusts God’s provision more than personal rights.
- Choosing peace honors God even when it costs you.
- God blesses humility with greater spiritual inheritance.
Context of Genesis 13:5-9
This moment comes right after Abram returns from Egypt, richer than before, and reestablishes his life in Canaan by worshiping God at Bethel.
Back then, wealth was measured in flocks, herds, and tents. A clash between two herdsmen over grazing land was a serious threat to peace. The land was already inhabited by Canaanites and Perizzites, meaning Abram and Lot could not expand without conflict with locals or each other. Abram’s offer to let Lot choose first was radical - it showed humility and faith, not weakness.
By stepping back and giving Lot the choice, Abram acted as a peacemaker, trusting that God’s promise of land wasn’t dependent on grabbing the best plot now.
Abram's Generosity and the Culture of Honor
Abram’s offer to let Lot choose the land first goes against what culture expected, yet it reveals a deeper wisdom rooted in faith and honor.
In that time, the older relative - Abram - had the right to choose first. Giving that up was a radical act of humility. Instead of insisting on his privilege, he prioritized family peace over personal advantage.
By letting Lot choose first, Abram gave up his right as the elder and leader - yet gained something far greater through peace and God’s blessing.
This choice wasn’t weakness - it was strength under control. Later, God reaffirmed His promise to Abram, giving him land and countless descendants (Genesis 13:14-17). Unlike the men of Sodom who were 'wicked, great sinners against the Lord' (Genesis 13:13), Abram walked in faith, worship, and trust. His actions show that true honor doesn’t come from taking the best for yourself, but from trusting God with what’s best.
Choosing Peace Over Strife: A Simple Lesson from Abram's Example
Abram’s decision to let Lot choose first shows us a simple but powerful way to handle conflict: put peace ahead of personal gain.
He didn’t insist on his rights or argue over who deserved more, because he trusted God’s promise more than the land itself. This same spirit is echoed later in Scripture, like in Romans 12:18, which says, 'If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.'
True peace isn't about getting your way - it's about trusting God enough to let go.
By choosing harmony, Abram modeled faith in action - trusting that God’s blessing wasn’t limited by human conflict or scarcity.
Lot's Choice and the Bigger Story: How Abram's Faith Points to Jesus
This peaceful separation between Abram and Lot is more than a land dispute. It sets the stage for a larger story that leads to Jesus.
Lot chooses the fertile land near Sodom, drawn by what looks good on the surface, while Abram stays in the less glamorous parts of Canaan - yet receives God’s direct promise of all the land (Genesis 13:14-17). Later, when Lot is captured by kings, Abram rescues him (Genesis 14), showing grace to someone who made a selfish choice - just as Jesus seeks and saves the lost (Luke 19:10).
Abram’s willingness to let Lot go first foreshadows how Jesus, though rightful heir, gave up His place to bring blessing to others.
In this, we see a glimpse of the Gospel: the rightful heir (like Abram, or later, Jesus) gives up His advantage not to destroy the one who strays, but to redeem him.
Application
How This Changes Everything: Real Life Impact
I once found myself in a similar situation - not with flocks and tents, but with a business partnership that was falling apart over small disagreements that grew into big tension. Like Abram’s herdsmen, we started competing instead of cooperating. Reading this story changed how I saw it. Instead of fighting for my 'rightful' share or insisting on being right, I remembered Abram’s choice: peace over pride. I reached out, offered a way forward that favored the other person, and to my surprise, the relationship was restored and my own path became clearer. It’s amazing how letting go can actually lead to greater blessing when we trust God with the outcome.
Personal Reflection
- When have I chosen conflict over peace, even in small ways, because I felt entitled to my way?
- What 'best looking' choice am I tempted to make for myself today that might lead me away from God’s deeper blessing?
- How can I show generosity in a situation where I actually have the upper hand?
A Challenge For You
This week, look for one situation where you can choose peace instead of being right - whether in your family, work, or relationships. Let someone else 'pick first,' even when you don’t have to.
A Prayer of Response
God, thank you for showing me that true strength is found in peace, not power. Help me trust your promises enough to let go of my rights when it matters. When conflict comes, remind me of Abram’s choice - to honor others and rely on you. Lead me into the path of blessing that only comes from trusting you.
Related Scriptures & Concepts
Immediate Context
Genesis 13:1-4
Abram returns from Egypt rich and renews his worship at Bethel, setting the stage for the conflict over resources.
Genesis 13:10-11
Lot chooses the fertile Jordan Valley, revealing his worldly priorities in contrast to Abram’s faith.
Connections Across Scripture
Philippians 2:3-4
Teaches humility and valuing others above oneself, reflecting Abram’s selfless offer to Lot.
Hebrews 11:8-10
Commends Abram’s faith in God’s promise of land, even when he didn’t possess it yet.
James 3:17-18
Describes wisdom from above as peaceable, linking to Abram’s peaceful resolution of conflict.