17 When the sun had set and darkness had fallen, a smoking firepot with a blazing torch appeared and passed between the pieces.
17 And it came to pass, that, when the sun went down, and it was dark, behold a smoking furnace, and a burning
17 When the sun had gone down and it was dark, behold, a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch passed between these pieces.
17 When the sun was down and it was dark, a smoking firepot and a flaming torch moved between the split carcasses.
17 And it came to pass, when the sun went down and it was dark, that behold, there appeared a smoking oven and a burning torch that passed between those pieces.
17 After the sun went down and darkness fell, Abram saw a smoking firepot and a flaming torch pass between the halves of the carcasses.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Genesis 15:17
Commentary on Genesis 15:17-21
(Read Genesis 15:17-21)
The smoking furnace and the burning lamp, probably represented the Israelites' severe trials and joyful deliverance, with their gracious supports in the mean time. It is probable that this furnace and lamp, which passed between the pieces, burned and consumed them, and so completed the sacrifice, and testified God's acceptance of it. So it intimates that God's covenants with man are made by sacrifice, Psalm 50:5. And we may know that he accepts our sacrifices, if he kindles in our souls pious and devout affections. The bounds of the land granted are stated. Several nations, or tribes, are spoken of, that must be cast out to make room for the seed of Abram. In this chapter we perceive in Abram faith struggling against, and triumphing over, unbelief. Wonder not, believers, if you meet with seasons of darkness and distress. But it is not the will of God that you should be cast down: fear not; for all that he was to Abram he will be to you.