בראשית, פרק כ״א, פסוק כ״ט

During the formation of a peace treaty between Abraham and Abimelech, an unusual action catches the king's attention. Abraham separates seven female sheep from the rest of the herd intended for the covenant and places them to the side. Realizing that these animals are not meant as a standard gift or for the customary treaty feast, the king questions their distinct purpose [ביאור שטיינזלץ, קרני אור].

The choice to set apart exactly seven female sheep is highly intentional. The number seven creates a deliberate linguistic connection to the concept of an oath. Furthermore, Abraham specifically selects females because they are typically kept alive to raise offspring, whereas male sheep are more likely to be slaughtered. This ensures that the animals and their future descendants will serve as a living, continuous testimony. Anyone who sees these specific sheep being led to the well will immediately recognize them as Abraham's property and remember that he was the one who dug the well [פענח רזא].

The phrasing of the narrative indicates that this group is separated as a single, complete entity, much like a designated sacrificial offering [ברכת אשר על התורה]. Yet, a subtle spelling anomaly in the text hints at a hidden criticism of the entire arrangement, suggesting that it was inappropriate for Abraham to forge a covenant with an idolater [פענח רזא].

On a deeper level, the physical act of setting these animals in place connects to the broader theme of the world's creation. The concept of establishing the sheep echoes the biblical tradition regarding the setting of the earth's boundaries. This profound link teaches that it is in the merit of Abraham that all the borders of the earth were created and firmly established [קיצור בעל הטורים].