Sitting by his tent

Not wait inside the tent, expectantly

Heat is when no one moves, and he is outside, waiting

At the entrance

In the heat of the day

Sees strangers

Runs to meet them

No hesitation, no fear, bows – shows respect

Depth of bow deep respect and vulnerability

He bows to them

Down to the ground

My lord

Creates inverse relational status

Asks for their approval, asks for their permission to do good, emphasis on servant

If I find favor with you

Do not pass by your servant

Let water be brought, wash your feet

Serving masters, not go fetch, or you may use,

States conditions of their safety and nourishment

Rest under the tree

Bring you a little bread to refresh

Then you can go

Not keep but concern, re-emphasis on servant

Waits for an answer. Defers authority to them – they tell him do.

Since you have come to your servant

Do as you have said

Hastened into the tent To Sarah: Make read 3 measures

Quantity of 3 – one for each, quantity to satisfy, not stingy

Not stale flour or old bread, maybe not flat bread, but the kneed for rising

Choice flour

Kneed and make cakes

Ran to the herd

Ran – no hesitation to carry out his guests’ bidding or his offer. Chose a calf, not an old cow or meat that was already partially used. Shows no concern for his loss of income and food.

It was not a sickly or weak animal. Treating honored guests.

Took a calf

Tender and good

He ran etc.

Gets whole household involved. They trust him or don’t think he is mad.

His wife, Sarah

His servant hastens to prepare food

Brought it to them

Brings of the best he and his household has to offer

Waits by, attends them, not assumes equality of eating with them, not embarrass them in their manners

Curds and milk and set it for them

Stood by them while they ate