Genesis 26:26-3

(J). Abimelech's Covenant with Isaac

26. Then Abimelech The king of Gerar discerns that Isaac's prosperity can only be explained by the special blessing of Jehovah his God (Genesis 26:29). He deems it wise policy to make terms with so powerful a person. Abimelech is accompanied by his two officers of state.

Ahuzzath his friend This proper name has a termination like that of the Philistine name "Goliath" (1 Samuel 17:4). The king's "friend" was probably his chief favourite and councillor; cf. 2 Samuel 15:37; 1Ki 4:5; 1 Chronicles 27:33. The LXX strangely renders by νυμφαγωγός, "the friend of the bridegroom" (cf. Judges 14:11; Judges 14:20; Judges 15:2; Judges 15:6), i.e. "the intimate friend."

Phicol See Genesis 21:22. Possibly also a Philistine name. Phicol represented the army, Ahuzzath the court.