But the land was unable to support both of them while they stayed together, for they had so many possessions that they were unable to coexist.
We have here an unhappy falling out between Abram and Lot, who had hitherto been inseparable companions (see Gen 13:1, and Gen 12:4), but now parted. I. The occasion of their quarrel was their riches. We read (Gen 13:2) how rich Abram was; now here we are told (Gen 13:5) that Lot, who went with Abram, was rich too; and therefore God blessed him with...
Commenting on Genesis 13:5-9
And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together,.... That part of the country where Abram and Lot were could not afford them room enough for their several tents; or however could not furnish them with sufficient pasturage for their flocks and herds, they were so numerous; at least could not do it so as to be contiguous to each...
And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together: for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together. (c) This inconvenience came by their riches, which break friendships and the bounds of nature.