In just one short story in the bible, there are many story elements that can be identified. Without these elements, biblical stories would not have such a profound effect on readers like they do. In the story of Abram in Egypt, the element of setting is not only crucial for understanding the motives of Abraham, but also for its impact.
In beginning, it must first be understood that setting is not just the basic surrounding area where a story takes place. Setting goes beyond that, extending to the ideas of people at that time, and what was actually going on in the land. When Abram was traveling toward Negev it explains that there was a famine in the land. Because the writer told us this we know at this point in history there was a famine, and we expect that this will affect Abram in some way. The story then continues to say that Abram went down to Egypt to live there for a while because the famine was severe. Due to the fact that the writer displayed for us through setting the circumstances in the land at that time, we can comprehend the motive of Abram going into Egypt.
The next motive of Abram is difficult to understand without the knowledge of the beliefs and customs of the people in this particular period. Abram explains to his wife that she must lie and say she is his sister. If she does not lie, Abram will be killed. As readers today this seems absurd, and this is why it is necessary for us to have a historical background of this time period. If there is a familiarity with what the Egyptians believed, and how they behaved at the time of Abram's life we can begin to identify with his intentions. Although we may not condone his actions, we can see his motives for lying like he did.
Before Abram even went to Egypt he was called by God to leave his country, his people, and his father's household. By reading this we can portray a setting that consists of comfort and stability for Abram.
