(Egypt) that enslaves them. The appearance of Abram as defender of the animal portions may refer to his obedient piety that confirmed his loyalty and ensured Israel’s future (e.g., 22:16–18) or his intercessory function as prophet (e.g., 18:16–33; 20:7, 17). Since Abram does not walk through the pieces, he is not under obligation to the Lord to realize the promises. By the passing of the firepot through the severed pieces, the Lord’s presence with enslaved Israel symbolically ensures the preservation