Notes

In this covenant Abraham is called to walk in the presence of God and be blameless (Genesis 17:1). His name is also changed from Abram to Abraham and his wife's name is changed from Sarai to Sarah. In Genesis verses 9-14, Abraham is commanded that he and his descendents must keep the Covenant with God throughout the ages and that circumcision is to be the sign of this Covenant.

In the context of this Covenant, Abraham is told that he will indeed have his own son with Sarah, this despite the fact that they are already of advanced years. The Covenant made with Abraham is to be passed on through his son who is to be named Isaac. Despite the promise of the Covenant, considerable time passes before Sarah becomes pregnant and gives birth to the son who is named Isaac. In keeping with the Covenant Isaac was circumcised when he was eight days old.

Later God calls Abraham to take his son Isaac to the land of Moriah and offer him as a sacrifice. The tradition shows that Abraham is obedient to God's call and takes his son to the place where he is to be sacrificed. As they approach the designated place, Isaac asks his father where the animal is for the sacrifice. Abraham replies saying "God will provide" (Genesis 22:8). Abraham continues with the preparations to sacrifice Isaac until at the last moment an angel of God intervened and instructed Abraham not to sacrifice Isaac.

In response to Abraham's obedience the angel declares that because of Abraham's fidelity in not withholding his son he would be blessed abundantly and that his descendents would be as numerous as the stars of the sky and the sands of the seashore, that he would