Genesis 14:23 - Exposition

That I will not take —literally, if (sc. I shall take); an abbreviation for "May God do so to me, if …!" (cf. 1 Samuel 3:17 ; 2 Samuel 3:35 ). The particle אִם has the force of a negative in adjuration— from a thread even to a shoe-latchet, and that I will not take any thing (literally, and if I shall take anything ) that is thine, —literally, of all that ( sc . belongs) to thee— lest thou shouldest say (literally, and thou shalt not say ), I have made Abram rich . Though not averse to accept presents from heathen monarchs ( Genesis 12:16 ), the patriarch could not consent to share in the wealth of the impious Sodomites; in this a striking contrast to Lot.