Gen 17:2-3 | NETfull | STEP | Then I will confirm my covenant between me and you, and I will give you a multitude of descendants.”

Genesis 17:2-3

2 Then I will confirm my covenant ^{▼▼ Following the imperative, the cohortative indicates consequence. If Abram is blameless, then the Lord will ratify the covenant. Earlier the Lord ratified part of his promise to Abram (see Gen 15:18–21), guaranteeing him that his descendants would live in the land. But the expanded form of the promise, which includes numerous descendants and eternal possession of the land, remains to be ratified. This expanded form of the promise is in view here (see vv. 2b, 4–8). See the note at Gen 15:18 and R. B. Chisholm, “Evidence from Genesis,” A Case for Premillennialism, 35–54.} between me and you, and I will give you a multitude of descendants.” ^{▼▼ Heb “I will multiply you exceedingly, exceedingly.” The repetition is emphatic.}

3 Abram bowed down with his face to the ground, ^{▼▼ Heb “And Abram fell on his face.” This expression probably means that Abram sank to his knees and put his forehead to the ground, although it is possible that he completely prostrated himself. In either case the posture indicates humility and reverence.} and God said to him, ^{▼▼ Heb “God spoke to him, saying.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified in the translation for stylistic reasons.}