Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there he called on the name of the LORD, the Everlasting God.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 33. A grove: in the midst of which was an altar, dedicated to the Lord God eternal; to testify that he alone was incapable of change. Thither Abraham frequently repaired, to thank God for all his favours. Temples were not probably as yet known in any part of the world. The ancient saints, Abraham, Isaac, Josue, and so forth were pleased to shew their respect for God, and their love of retirement, by planting groves, and consecrating altars to the supreme Deity. If this laudable custom was afterwards perverted by the idolaters, and hence forbidden to God’s people, we need not wonder. The best things may be abused; and when they become a source of scandal, we must avoid them. Bible. Joshua 24:26. Deuteronomy 16:22. Judith 6:25.
LORD or GOD in all caps is from the Hebrew יהוה Yahweh except when otherwise noted as being from the short form יה Yah.