The narrative relating Abraham’s lineage culminates in the narrative of the binding of Isaac, explained by the verse: And it was, after these things.

With the act of binding, the great Forefather Abraham’s meritorious character is demonstrated as he is tested for his willingness to sacrifice his son, his only son, who he loved, thus obeying G-d’s commandment without reservation. For his willingness, he was rewarded with a covenant with G-d, through the descendents of this only son:

'By Myself have I sworn, says the LORD, that because you have done this thing, and not withheld your son, your only son,

that in blessing I will bless you, and in multiplying I will multiply your seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the seashore; and your seed shall possess the gate of his enemies; and in your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed; because you have hearkened to My voice.'