The Family of Abraham: Genesis 11:27 and the Role of Terah

According to the Old Testament, Abraham's family history traces back to Terah, his father. The Bible, specifically Genesis 11:27, provides a detailed account of Terah and his sons, including Abraham, who became one of the most significant figures in the history of monotheistic beliefs.

Who Was Terah?

Terah, the father of Abraham, is mentioned in the Book of Genesis, primarily in Genesis 11:26-32. Genesis 11:27 states, 'When Terah had lived 70 years, he fathered Abram (Abraham), Nahor, and Haran.' Terah is described as a merchant and idol maker who lived in the city of Ur of the Chaldees. The narrative in Genesis 11:26 further clarifies that Terah was 70 years old when he had his first son, and Abraham, the eldest, was born 60 years later, when Terah was 130 years old.

The Sons of Terah

Terah had three sons, each with their unique roles and fates:

Abraham (Abram): Later named Abraham, he was the son who would go on to become the central figure in the Abrahamic religions, founding the covenant between God and his descendants. Nahor: The second son, Nahor, while mentioned, does not play a significant role in the biblical narrative as Abraham does. He is often associated with Haran. Haran: The third son, who died in his homeland before the family moved to Canaan. Haran was also the brother of Abraham, and the father of Lot, who would become an important figure in the story of Sodom and Gomorrah.

Terah's Compromise and Belief

Terah, despite being the father of Abraham, faced accusations and incidents that highlight his spiritual compromises. The Bible suggests that Terah, originally an idol maker, struggled with his faith, as described in the passage: 'Terah... compromised his faith by asking idols out of clay, rock, wood, and gems.'

However, the biblical account emphasizes that Terah and his family eventually moved to the land of Canaan, following the divine call from God. Terah himself died in Haran, which remained the final resting place for several generations of his family, including Haran.

The Spiritual Transformation

While Terah's role was significant, it was Abraham who transformed the family's spiritual direction. The Bible records that Abraham, after receiving a divine calling, led his family away from idol worship to a life of monotheism. In Genesis 12:1, God called Abraham, and in Genesis 17:1, God changed his name from Abram to Abraham, making it clear that he was more than just a physical father; he was a spiritual father.

Abraham did not just follow but also spread the belief in the one true God, rejecting the idols his father Terah had crafted. This transformation was not just personal but had a profound impact on the family and their future generations.

Abraham's Leadership and the Covenant

Abraham's spiritual journey and divine guidance are central to the narrative of the Old Testament. In Genesis 17, God reaffirms the covenant with Abraham, promising to make his descendants numerous and bless them, making Abraham the 'father of the faithful' for many religious traditions.

Conclusion

The family of Abraham, with Terah as the father, laid the foundation for the expansion of monotheistic beliefs and the founding of the Abrahamic religions. Terah's journey from idol making to leading the family towards faith in the one God is a powerful narrative of transformation and divine calling.