Overview
God narrows His focus to one man and his family. Abraham believes God's impossible promise of a son, and this faith is 'credited to him as righteousness.' The covenant includes circumcision as a sign, pointing forward to a deeper circumcision of the heart.
The Sign
Circumcision
The Promise
Abraham will become a great nation, possess a land, and through his offspring all families of the earth will be blessed.
The Breaking
Abraham's faith wavers at times (lying about Sarah, taking Hagar). His descendants will repeatedly fail, requiring slavery and exile before inheriting the promises.
The Hope
God's promise is unconditional—sealed by a covenant ceremony where only God passes through (Genesis 15). The blessing will extend to all nations through Abraham's seed.
Why Gold?
Gold represents the precious promises given to Abraham: descendants as numerous as the stars, a land flowing with milk and honey, and blessing to all nations.
Key Figures
Key Events
God calls Abram to leave his homeland
The promise of descendants like stars and sand
The covenant ceremony with smoking firepot (Genesis 15)
Circumcision instituted as covenant sign
The birth of Isaac to elderly Abraham and Sarah
The binding of Isaac (Akedah) on Mount Moriah
Abraham meets Melchizedek, priest of God Most High
Sarah's death and burial at Machpelah
Books to Read
Main Narrative
Supplemental Reading
Catholic Connection
Abraham is the father of all who believe (Romans 4:16). The Church traces her lineage through Abraham's faith. The binding of Isaac prefigures Christ's sacrifice—a beloved son carrying wood up a mountain. Melchizedek offering bread and wine foreshadows the Eucharist. Abraham's faith, not works, made him righteous—yet his faith was shown by works (James 2:21-24).
Quick Overview
God picks one ordinary man and makes an extraordinary promise: 'I'll make you into a great nation, and through you everyone on earth will be blessed.' Abraham believed God even when it seemed impossible. His faith is the model for all believers—and his family line leads to Jesus!
In the Liturgy
Abraham is mentioned in Eucharistic Prayer I (Roman Canon). The Church considers Abraham the father in faith of Jews, Christians, and Muslims.