The Story Unfolds
Generations after the Tower of Babel, God chose a man named Abram (later renamed Abraham) from the city of Ur. God called him to leave his home, his relatives, and everything he knew, and to journey to a new land that God would show him. God made a great promise to Abram: "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing... and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you" (Genesis 12:2-3). Trusting in God's promise, the 75-year-old Abram, his wife Sarai, and his nephew Lot set out in faith, beginning a journey that would establish the nation of Israel.
Story Summary
God calls Abram to leave his homeland and journey to a promised land.
Masterpiece Showcase
Artwork Details
"Abraham's Journey to Canaan"
Pieter Lastman
1614
Oil on canvas
The Hermitage, St. Petersburg
Curator's Insights
About the Art
Lastman captures the very moment of Abraham's calling, with the entire caravan stopped as divine light emanates from a grove of trees.
About the Artist
Pieter Lastman was a leading Dutch painter and teacher of Rembrandt, known for his historical and biblical narratives with dramatic lighting.
Historical Context
This work demonstrates the Dutch Golden Age tradition of biblical storytelling with meticulous attention to everyday details.
Techniques Used:
Symbolism:
- Divine light represents God's presence
- Stopped caravan shows the momentous decision
- Ram foreshadows future test of faith
Interactive Art Adventure
Look Closer
- Find where God's presence is shown in the painting
- Look for Abraham, Sarai, and Lot in the scene
- Notice all the details of their traveling caravan
Creative Spark
Pack a small "journey bag" with five things you would take if you had to move far away. What is most important to you?