Abraham Attempting to Sacrifice Isaac on an Altar
After the great blessings that God had given Abraham and Sarah, he felt compelled by God to sacrifice their only son. He knew that this was the right thing to do, and it was also a test of his faith and obedience.
The command to sacrifice Isaac on an altar was an unusual command. Human sacrifice was not a common practice among the people of Canaan. But Abraham had believed that God was different from the other gods of Canaan.
So Abraham got up early and saddled his donkey. He took two servants along and set out on the three day journey to where God had told him.
Once they arrived at the place, Abraham built an altar. He then put the wood in order and bound Isaac, probably with leather thongs.
When it came time to offer the sacrifice, Abraham raised his knife to slay his son. But then, at the last moment, God stopped him and provided a substitute for the sacrifice.
This is a powerful story about the real heart of Abraham. It shows us that while he trusted in God and was determined to obey His command, the true test of his trust was his love for Isaac and for the promises that God had made him.
He had a strong faith and it showed up when God allowed this terrible test to come his way. This is a very painful story, but it is also one that shows God’s faithfulness and mercy in the end.
