MPV Commentary

1. The Lord appeared to Abraham in a manifestation of divine presence that was more familiar and intimate than any previous encounter.

The scene takes place under the terebinth tree at Mamre, where Abraham sat outside his tent to escape the heat of the day.

2. As Abraham looked up, he saw three men approaching. It was customary for travelers to start their journey at sunrise and rest in midday when they could find a suitable spot.

Abraham ran to meet them, showing respect by advancing towards the strangers and leading them to his tent. This gesture indicated that he welcomed them as honored guests.

3. Abraham offered refreshments to his visitors, beginning with water for their dusty feet. He knew that this was an essential courtesy among the pastoral people of Hebron.

5. Abraham inferred that these men had come on a special mission because they approached directly in front of his tent, which was distinguishable from the others.

6. Abraham hastened to prepare food for his guests, instructing Sarah to make some bread cakes on the hearth. This was a common practice among the people of Hebron, where bread was baked daily by the women.

7. Abraham then ran to the herd and fetched a calf as an offering of hospitality. In this culture, animal food was typically provided only for visitors of high rank, and a calf was considered a generous gesture.

The calf would likely be cooked quickly over the fire, either roasted whole or cut into small pieces and broiled on skewers. It was customary to eat meat with boiled corn swimming in butter or melted fat.

8. The meal concluded with a bowl of camel's milk. As Abraham stood by his guests under the tree, he showed respect for their presence without yet realizing that they were divine messengers.