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Book of Genesis - Chapter 18 - Verse 3

18:3
And said, My Lord, if now I have found favour in thy sight, pass not away, I pray thee, from thy servant:

Meaning

When the speaker in this verse, identified as a servant, addresses the Lord with humility and reverence, using the term "My Lord," he is displaying a deep respect and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. By expressing a desire for God to not pass away, the servant is essentially asking for God's continued presence and favor in his life. The servant recognizes that it is only through God's grace and favor that he has found any success or blessings in his life, and he is pleading for this favor to remain with him. This verse highlights the importance of seeking God's presence and favor in our lives, acknowledging that all good things come from Him. It demonstrates the servant's understanding of the importance of remaining in God's favor and asking for His continued guidance and blessing in all aspects of life.

Theological Overview

Within this verse, the speaker addresses their conversation partner as "My Lord," indicating a sense of respect and acknowledgment of authority. The phrase "if now I have found favour in thy sight" illustrates humility and a recognition of the recipient's graciousness. The plea for the recipient not to pass away highlights the speaker's desire for continued presence and relationship with their superior. The act of passing by or leaving could be interpreted as a symbolic representation of losing favor or connection with the divine figure being addressed. This verse reveals an intimate exchange between the speaker and their Lord, demonstrating a deep sense of respect, gratitude, and dependence on the divine presence. Through theological interpretation, one could explore themes of reliance on divine favor, the significance of maintaining a close relationship with the divine, and the idea of finding favor in the eyes of the Lord.

American Standard Version

and said, My lord, if now I have found favor in thy sight, pass not away, I pray thee, from thy servant:
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