Interesting Facts

• Eshcol was an Amorite.
• He was a brother of Mamre and Aner.
• Eshcol was confederate with Abram.
• Abram specifically requested that Eshcol and the men who went with him to battle receive their portion of the spoil.
• Eshcol was present at Sarah’s burial, walking in the procession behind her bier along with other notable figures.

Genealogy

• Eshcol’s familial connection mentioned in the sources is that he was a brother to Mamre and Aner. The texts do not provide information about his parents, birth, marital status, or offspring.

Historical Context

Eshcol lived during a period marked by significant events such as the military campaign led by Chedorlaomer. He existed in a land inhabited by various groups, including Amorites, with whom he is identified. The social structure appears to have included alliances and confederacies between different individuals and groups, as evidenced by Eshcol’s confederation with Abram. The importance of familial ties is evident in the mention of his brothers. Furthermore, the respect shown at Sarah’s burial, where Eshcol was among those who followed the bier, suggests a culture that valued mourning and honored prominent individuals. The context of war and its aftermath, particularly the division of spoils, would have been a relevant aspect of the socio-political landscape during his time.

Narrative

Eshcol’s narrative within the provided sources is primarily linked to his relationship with Abram. He is identified as being in league with Abram, alongside his brothers Mamre and Aner. This confederacy suggests a degree of mutual support and shared interests. When Abram successfully defeated Chedorlaomer and the allied kings and recovered the plundered goods and captives, including Lot, the king of Sodom offered Abram the goods, requesting only the return of the people. In response, Abram declared he would not take anything for himself, with a specific exception for the portions of his allies: “Save only that which the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men which went with me, Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre; let them take their portion”. This indicates that Eshcol played a role in Abram’s military endeavors and was considered worthy of a share in the spoils. Jasher further elaborates on this, stating that Abram insisted that Eshcol and his men, along with Aner and Mamre, should receive their portion of the spoil, whether they participated directly in the battle or remained to guard the baggage. Later in the narrative, Eshcol is mentioned as being present at Sarah’s burial, signifying his continued association and respect for Abram’s household. While the sources do not provide extensive details about Eshcol’s individual actions or motivations, his consistent portrayal as an ally and a respected figure within the community highlights his supportive role in the lives of Abram and his family.