What does Genesis 21:34 Mean?

Context Summary

Abimelech was impressed with Abraham's growing prosperity. He felt that it could not be explained on merely natural grounds. "God is with thee in all that thou doest." He sought, therefore, to secure the well-being of himself and his kingdom by forming an amicable treaty. Abraham immediately indicated that, while willing to meet him, they must first have a clear understanding about a certain injustice which he had suffered. As our Lord taught afterward, he showed Abimelech his fault as between them alone, Matthew 18:15. The matter was easily adjusted by the king's frank disavowal of his servants' action. In lieu of written documents the seven lambs would be a perpetual sign and token of Abraham's claim to the well, henceforth known as "the well of the oath." The tamarisk was the second of these natural title-deeds. Wherever the religious man dwells he should pray, and leave behind him trees and wells. [source]

Chapter Summary: Genesis 21

¹  Isaac is born, and circumcised
⁶  Sarah's joy
⁸  Isaac is weaned
⁹  Hagar and Ishmael sent away
¹⁵  Hagar in distress
¹⁷  The angel relieves and comforts her
²³  Abimelech's covenant with Abraham at Beersheba