Who Appeared to Abraham at the Oaks of Mamre?
A Detailed Article
The appearance of divine visitors to Abraham at the oaks of Mamre, recorded in Genesis 18, is one of the most profound and mysterious encounters in the Old Testament. This moment marks a turning point in God’s unfolding plan—bringing reassurance about the promised son and revealing God’s intimate involvement in Abraham’s life. Understanding who appeared and the nature of this visit provides deep insight into God’s character, His relationship with Abraham, and His purposes for humanity.
1. The Setting: The Oaks of Mamre
The oaks (or terebinths) of Mamre were located near Hebron, where Abraham had settled. This place served as a longstanding residence and spiritual center for Abraham:
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He built an altar there (Genesis 13:18).
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He lived there for many years.
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It became the location for one of the most significant theophanies in Scripture.
On a hot day, as Abraham sat at his tent door, something extraordinary occurred.
2. The Visitors: Three Men Standing Before Him
Genesis 18:2 states:
“He lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, three men stood by him.”
These “three men” are not ordinary travelers. As the chapter unfolds, it becomes clear that they represent a divine visitation.
3. The Identity of the Visitors
1. The LORD (Yahweh) Appeared
The chapter opens with a clear statement:
“The LORD appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre.” (Genesis 18:1)
This means that among the three men, one is identified as the LORD—the covenant God of Abraham.
As the dialogue continues, Abraham speaks to one of the visitors using divine titles, and the narrative frequently switches between “the LORD said” and “He said,” showing that God Himself is speaking directly.
Many biblical scholars call this a theophany—a visible manifestation of God.
Some Christian interpreters go further, viewing this as a Christophany—a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ—since the LORD appears in human form. While the text does not explicitly state this, it has been a long-standing theological understanding in Christian tradition.
2. The Other Two Visitors Were Angels
Later, in Genesis 19:1, the text says:
“The two angels came to Sodom in the evening.”
This shows that:
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Of the three visitors,
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Two were angels, who proceeded to Sodom to evaluate the outcry against the city.
Thus, the visitors were:
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The LORD (Yahweh)
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Two angels
This combination reveals a heavenly delegation sent with two distinct missions:
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To reaffirm God’s covenant promise to Abraham
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To bring judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah
4. Abraham’s Recognition of the Visitors
Although the text does not explicitly say when Abraham recognized their divine identity, his behavior shows reverence:
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He ran to meet them (Genesis 18:2).
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He bowed himself to the ground.
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He addressed one as “My Lord” (Adonai), a title often used for God.
Abraham instinctively knew he was in the presence of the divine.
5. The Purpose of the Visit
1. To Announce the Birth of Isaac
The LORD declared that within a year, Sarah would bear a son (Genesis 18:10).
This visit served to:
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Reassure Abraham
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Strengthen Sarah’s wavering faith
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Confirm God’s miraculous plan
2. To Reveal God’s Justice Regarding Sodom
The LORD also shared His intention to investigate Sodom’s wickedness (Genesis 18:20–21).
This opened the way for Abraham’s intercession—one of the most powerful prayers in Scripture.
6. The Significance of This Appearance
A. God’s Personal Relationship With Abraham
This is one of the most intimate divine encounters Abraham experiences. God:
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Eats a meal with him
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Talks face-to-face
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Shares His plans
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Invites intercession
It highlights Abraham’s status as “the friend of God” (James 2:23).
B. Hospitality as a Reflection of Faith
Abraham’s generous hospitality toward the visitors becomes a model for believers (Hebrews 13:2).
C. Revelation of God’s Nature
Through this encounter, God is shown as:
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Personal
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Relational
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Just
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Merciful
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Faithful to His promises
7. A Unique Theophany in Scripture
The appearance at Mamre is unique because:
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God appears in human form
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Angels accompany Him
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They share a meal
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They engage Abraham in dialogue
No other Old Testament scene matches this combination.
Conclusion
The visitors who appeared to Abraham at the oaks of Mamre were the LORD Himself and two angels. This divine visitation reaffirmed the promise of Isaac and revealed God’s justice toward Sodom. More importantly, it demonstrated God’s intimate relationship with Abraham and His willingness to personally engage with the people He calls.