Abram, who was later called Abraham, is called the Father of Faith. He is famous in his title as the father of the Israel Nation. Who was Abraham? Can we find characteristics of a businessman from his life-story?
He was a Merchant
History tells us that part of his family background is being a merchant. According to Jewish tradition, Abraham was born under the name Abram in the city of Ur in Babylonia in the year 1948 from Creation (circa 1800 BCE). He was the son of Terah, an idol merchant (Jewish Virtual Library). Abraham, perhaps, knew how to make idols during his early childhood. His family might be making and selling idols. The root word of merchandise is a merchant, which, in our modern day, use as a business center that sells various products.
He was a Livestock Owner
Another portrait that makes Abraham an entrepreneur was his ability to raise livestock. In Genesis 13:2, it is mentioned that Abram became very wealthy with material possessions like livestock including silver and gold. To acquire possessions during those times, one should have the ability to produce wealth. A livestock, in today’s equivalent, is an asset. It may also refer to a stockholder.
Abraham was obviously a wealthy man. Hebron, Beersheba, and Gerar were key points on the caravan routes, and although there is no mention of such business and trade transactions, it is obvious that the patriarchal community was engaged in the legitimate commerce of the trade routes of Palestine. (E. M. Blaiklock. Today’s Handbook of Bible)
Abraham became a wealthy man not just because of his entrepreneurial ability, but most of all, he was blessed by God.