Explanation
Promises Fulfilled
(Genesis 21)
Genesis
21 recounts the birth of Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, fulfilling God's
promise to them. The chapter begins with the arrival of Isaac, whose birth
brings great joy to Abraham and Sarah in their old age. Sarah had initially
doubted that she could conceive a child at her advanced age, but God fulfilled
His promise to them.
After
Isaac's birth, Sarah notices Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar, mocking
Isaac. This prompts Sarah to request that Abraham send Hagar and Ishmael away.
Abraham is distressed by this, but God reassures him and promises to take care
of Ishmael and make him into a great nation. So, early the next morning,
Abraham gives Hagar some provisions and sends her and Ishmael into the
wilderness.
Hagar
and Ishmael wander in the desert, running out of water. Hagar places Ishmael
under a bush and distances herself, not being able to bear seeing him die.
However, God hears Ishmael's cries and provides a well of water for them. Ishmael
grows up in the wilderness and becomes an expert with the bow.
The
chapter concludes with Abimelech, the king of Gerar, approaching Abraham to
make a covenant with him. They swear an oath, ensuring peace between them.
Abraham also settles in the land of the Philistines and plants a tamarisk tree,
calling on the name of the Lord, the eternal God.
In
summary, Genesis 21 focuses on the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham and
Sarah with the birth of Isaac. It also depicts the separation of Ishmael and
Hagar from Abraham's household and their subsequent encounter with God in the
wilderness. The chapter ends with Abraham making a covenant with Abimelech and
settling in the land of the Philistines.
Promises Fulfilled
In
desert's embrace, hope takes its stand,
Genesis
21, a chapter so grand.
A
promise fulfilled, a miracle revealed,
As
Sarah, in old age, her barrenness repealed.
Isaac,
the child of laughter and delight,
Brought
joy to Abraham and Sarah's sight.
In
their twilight years, a blessing bestowed,
God's
covenant fulfilled, His faithfulness showed.
Yet
strife did arise, a sibling's scorn,
Ishmael's
mocking of the child newly born.
Sarah's
plea, to send them away,
Abram's
heart heavy, he could not disobey.
In
the wilderness vast, Hagar and her son,
Desperate
and parched, their journey begun.
Under
a bush, Ishmael laid to rest,
Hagar,
in anguish, wept her distress.
But
God, ever watchful, heard their plea,
He
opened their eyes to a well, gushing free.
Survival
ensured, Ishmael grew strong,
His
skill with the bow, a testament to belong.
Abraham
and Abimelech, a covenant sealed,
A
pledge of peace, their nations revealed.
Settled
in Philistine land, Abraham thrived,
Planting
a tamarisk tree, God's name derived.
"Promises
Fulfilled," this chapter's tale,
Of
faith tested, and love that prevailed.
In
every trial and journey we face,
God's
grace and provision, our eternal embrace.
Explanation
Verses
1 to 5 of Genesis 21 describe the long-awaited fulfillment of God's promise to
Abraham and Sarah—the birth of their son, Isaac.
Verse
1:
"The
Lord visited Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did to Sarah as he had
promised."
In
this verse, it signifies that God's promise to Sarah was fulfilled. The phrase
"visited Sarah" implies that God intervened in her life, showing His
favor and fulfilling His word. It highlights the faithfulness of God in keeping
His promises.
Verse
2:
"And
Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age at the time of which God
had spoken to him."
This
verse reveals that Sarah, despite her advanced age and initial skepticism,
conceived a child. It emphasizes the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth, as
both Abraham and Sarah were well beyond the years of childbearing. It
underscores God's power to bring forth life in the most unlikely circumstances.
Verse
3:
"Abraham
called the name of his son who was born to him, whom Sarah bore him,
Isaac."
Abraham,
in obedience and recognition of God's instruction, named his son
"Isaac." The name Isaac means "laughter" or "he
laughs." It symbolizes the joy and laughter that Sarah expressed when she
heard that she would bear a child in her old age (Genesis 18:12). Isaac's name
serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promise.
Verse
4:
"And
Abraham circumcised his son Isaac when he was eight days old, as God had
commanded him."
Here,
the act of circumcision is performed on Isaac according to God's command. This practice
was a significant sign of the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants.
It symbolized their dedication to God and their inclusion in His chosen people.
Abraham's obedience to God's command underscores his faithfulness and
commitment to fulfilling God's instructions.
Verse
5:
"Abraham
was a hundred years old when his son Isaac was born to him."
This
verse emphasizes Abraham's advanced age at the time of Isaac's birth. It
highlights the miraculous nature of Isaac's arrival, as it defied the natural
order of things. Abraham's age serves as a reminder that God's power and
faithfulness transcend human limitations, making the birth of Isaac all the
more remarkable.
Verses
6 to 10 of Genesis 21 depict the tension and conflict that arises in Abraham's
household following the birth of Isaac.
Verse
6:
"And
Sarah said, 'God has made laughter for me; everyone who hears will laugh over
me.'"
Sarah,
filled with joy and gratitude for the birth of Isaac, expresses her delight.
She acknowledges that God has brought laughter and joy into her life through
the fulfillment of His promise. Sarah anticipates that others will share in her
joy and celebrate the miraculous circumstances surrounding Isaac's birth.
Verse
7:
"And
she said, 'Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet
I have borne him a son in his old age.'"
Sarah
reflects on the incredulity of her situation. She marvels at the fact that she,
who was once thought to be unable to bear children, has now given birth to a
son in her old age. Sarah recognizes the extraordinary nature of this event and
the wonder it brings.
Verse
8:
"And
the child grew and was weaned. And Abraham made a great feast on the day that
Isaac was weaned."
As Isaac
grows and reaches the age of weaning, Abraham celebrates this milestone with a
great feast. The weaning of a child was a significant event in ancient times,
signifying the child's transition from dependence on nursing to eating solid
food. Abraham marks this occasion with a joyous celebration, further
emphasizing the importance and blessing of Isaac's presence in their lives.
Verse
9:
"But
Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne to Abraham,
laughing."
Sarah
observes Ishmael, her son through her maidservant Hagar, mocking or laughing in
a way that seems disrespectful or harmful. It is unclear what specifically
Ishmael's actions entailed, but his behavior is seen as a threat or source of
contention.
Verse
10:
"So
she said to Abraham, 'Cast out this slave woman with her son, for the son of
this slave woman shall not be heir with my son Isaac.'"
Sarah,
deeply concerned about the potential conflict between Isaac and Ishmael,
approaches Abraham with a request. She asks him to send Hagar and Ishmael away,
feeling that their presence poses a threat to Isaac's inheritance and
well-being. Sarah desires to ensure that Isaac holds the primary position as
the heir to Abraham's legacy and the covenant promises of God.
Verses
11 to 15 of Genesis 21 narrate Abraham's distress over Sarah's request to send
Hagar and Ishmael away, and God's response to reassure and guide Abraham in
this situation.
Verse
11:
"And
the thing was very displeasing to Abraham on account of his son."
Abraham
is deeply troubled and saddened by Sarah's demand to send Hagar and Ishmael
away. Ishmael is Abraham's son, and he cares for him. The idea of separating
from Ishmael is distressing to Abraham, and he grapples with the decision.
Verse
12:
"But
God said to Abraham, 'Be not displeased because of the boy and because of your
slave woman. Whatever Sarah says to you, do as she tells you, for through Isaac
shall your offspring be named.'"
God
intervenes and speaks directly to Abraham, providing guidance and reassurance.
He instructs Abraham not to be distressed or displeased over Sarah's request.
God confirms that Sarah's words should be heeded, as the promise and lineage of
Abraham's descendants will be fulfilled specifically through Isaac, not Ishmael.
Verse
13:
"And
I will make a nation of the son of the slave woman also, because he is your
offspring."
God
offers comfort and promises to take care of Ishmael. He assures Abraham that
even though Ishmael will not be the designated heir of the covenant promises,
God will still make him into a great nation. God acknowledges Ishmael as
Abraham's son and affirms His plan for Ishmael's future.
Verse
14:
"So
Abraham rose early in the morning and took bread and a skin of water and gave
it to Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, along with the child, and sent her
away. And she departed and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba."
Abraham,
obedient to God's command and accepting Sarah's request, acts promptly. Early
in the morning, he prepares provisions for Hagar and Ishmael, providing them
with bread and water. He places the supplies on Hagar's shoulder, signifying
their journey into the wilderness. Hagar and Ishmael then depart and begin to
wander in the wilderness of Beersheba.
Verse
15:
"When
the water in the skin was gone, she put the child under one of the
bushes."
As
Hagar and Ishmael journey in the wilderness, their water supply eventually runs
out. With no water remaining, Hagar is desperate and places Ishmael under one
of the bushes, perhaps seeking shelter and shade for him. It reflects the dire
situation they find themselves in, facing the harsh realities of survival in
the arid desert.
Verses
16 to 20 of Genesis 21 continue the story of Hagar and Ishmael's journey in the
wilderness after being sent away by Abraham.
Verse
16:
"Then
she went and sat down opposite him a good way off, about the distance of a
bowshot, for she said, 'Let me not look on the death of the child.' And as she
sat opposite him, she lifted up her voice and wept."
Hagar,
feeling overwhelmed and unable to bear witnessing Ishmael's potential death
from thirst and exhaustion, positions herself at a distance. She sits down and
lifts up her voice in lamentation, expressing her deep sorrow and desperation.
The verse portrays Hagar's anguish as a mother faced with the prospect of
losing her child.
Verse
17:
"And
God heard the voice of the boy, and the angel of God called to Hagar from
heaven and said to her, 'What troubles you, Hagar? Fear not, for God has heard
the voice of the boy where he is.'"
God,
in His compassion, hears the cries of Ishmael. An angel of God addresses Hagar
from heaven, asking about her distress and providing reassurance. The angel
informs Hagar that God has heard Ishmael's voice, even in his dire situation,
and promises her that He will intervene.
Verse
18:
"Up!
Lift up the boy, and hold him fast with your hand, for I will make him into a
great nation."
The
angel instructs Hagar to get up and take hold of Ishmael, emphasizing the need
for immediate action. God reiterates His promise to Hagar, assuring her that He
will make Ishmael into a great nation. This reaffirms the covenantal blessing
given to Ishmael as the offspring of Abraham.
Verse
19:
"Then
God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. And she went and filled the
skin with water and gave the boy a drink."
In a
remarkable act of divine provision, God opens Hagar's eyes to see a well of
water that was previously unnoticed. This supernatural revelation enables her
to access a much-needed source of water in the wilderness. Hagar goes to the
well, fills the skin with water, and quenches Ishmael's thirst, rescuing him
from the brink of dehydration.
Verse
20:
"And
God was with the boy, and he grew up. He lived in the wilderness and became an
expert with the bow."
God's
presence remains with Ishmael throughout his life in the wilderness. The verse
affirms that Ishmael grows up and thrives in this challenging environment. He
becomes skilled in archery, likely adapting to the demands of survival and
becoming proficient in hunting. This verse highlights God's faithfulness in
fulfilling His promise to Hagar and Ishmael, ensuring their well-being and
development despite their circumstances.
Verses
21 to 25 of Genesis 21 describe the resolution of the conflict between Abraham
and Abimelech, the king of Gerar, as they make a covenant with each other.
Verse
21:
"He
lived in the wilderness of Paran, and his mother took a wife for him from the
land of Egypt."
The
verse states that Ishmael dwelled in the wilderness of Paran. This suggests
that he continued to live there, developing his life and skills in the desert
region. Additionally, Ishmael's mother, Hagar, arranges a marriage for him with
a wife from Egypt, possibly ensuring his future and lineage.
Verse
22:
"At
that time Abimelech and Phicol the commander of his army said to Abraham, 'God
is with you in all that you do.'"
Abimelech,
accompanied by his commander Phicol, approaches Abraham and acknowledges that
God is with him in all his endeavors. This statement indicates a recognition of
Abraham's favored position and divine presence, likely stemming from previous
encounters and experiences.
Verse
23:
"Now,
therefore, swear to me here by God that you will not deal falsely with me or
with my descendants or with my posterity, but as I have dealt kindly with you,
so you will deal with me and with the land where you have sojourned."
Abimelech
requests Abraham to make an oath, calling upon God as a witness, that he will
act with honesty and integrity towards Abimelech, his descendants, and the land
where Abraham has resided. Abimelech reminds Abraham of his own kind treatment
towards him and expects reciprocal goodwill.
Verse
24:
"And
Abraham said, 'I will swear.'"
Abraham
agrees to Abimelech's request and declares his willingness to make the oath as
requested. This affirms his commitment to the covenant and the terms proposed
by Abimelech.
Verse
25:
"When
Abraham reproved Abimelech about a well of water that Abimelech's servants had
seized."
This
verse introduces a specific issue of contention between Abraham and Abimelech
regarding a well of water. Abraham confronts Abimelech, reproving him for his
servants' actions in seizing the well that belonged to Abraham. This incident
serves as a point of conflict between the two parties that needs resolution.
Overall,
these verses highlight the encounter between Abraham and Abimelech, as they
engage in dialogue and negotiations, seeking to establish a covenant and
address grievances. The resolution of the conflict involves an oath, a
commitment to honesty and kindness, and the acknowledgement of God's presence
and favor in Abraham's life.
Verses
26 to 30 of Genesis 21 depict the conclusion of the covenant-making process
between Abraham and Abimelech, including the exchange of goods and the naming
of a place.
Verse
26:
"But
Abimelech said, 'I do not know who has done this thing; you did not tell me,
and I have not heard of it until today.'"
Abimelech
expresses his ignorance of the specific incident involving the seizure of the
well by his servants. He claims that he was not informed about the matter and
only becomes aware of it when Abraham brings it up. Abimelech distances himself
from any knowledge or involvement in the wrongdoing.
Verse
27:
"So
Abraham took sheep and oxen and gave them to Abimelech, and the two men made a
covenant."
In
an act of reconciliation and goodwill, Abraham presents Abimelech with a gift
of sheep and oxen. This gesture of generosity serves as a token of their
agreement and symbolizes the establishment of a covenant between them. The gift
exchange solidifies their commitment to peace and cooperation.
Verse
28:
"Abraham
set seven ewe lambs of the flock apart."
In
addition to the general gift of sheep and oxen, Abraham sets aside seven
specific ewe lambs from his flock. This separate selection of lambs carries a
special significance, likely symbolizing the uniqueness and solemnity of the
covenant being made.
Verse
29:
"And
Abimelech said to Abraham, 'What is the meaning of these seven ewe lambs that
you have set apart?'"
Abimelech,
curious about the significance of the seven ewe lambs, asks Abraham for an
explanation. He seeks to understand the deeper meaning behind Abraham's
specific selection of these animals.
Verse
30:
"He
said, 'These seven ewe lambs you will take from my hand, that this may be a
witness for me that I dug this well.'"
Abraham
clarifies that the seven ewe lambs serve as a tangible testimony or evidence
regarding the ownership of the well in question. By accepting these lambs,
Abimelech acknowledges Abraham's rightful claim to the well that was seized by
his servants. The lambs act as a witness or proof of Abraham's rightful
possession and as a means to resolve the dispute.
In
these verses, Abraham and Abimelech engage in further dialogue and actions to
solidify their covenant. Abraham offers a gift, including the separate
selection of seven ewe lambs, and Abimelech seeks understanding regarding their
significance. Abraham explains that the lambs serve as evidence of his
ownership of the well. This exchange contributes to the resolution of the
conflict and the establishment of peaceful relations between the two parties.
Verses
31 to 34 of Genesis 21 describe the aftermath of the covenant-making process
between Abraham and Abimelech, including the naming of a place and the
establishment of a lasting agreement.
Verse
31:
"Therefore
that place was called Beersheba, because there both of them swore an
oath."
Following
the conclusion of the covenant between Abraham and Abimelech, the place where
the oath was made becomes known as Beersheba. The name Beersheba, which means
"well of the oath" or "well of seven," reflects the
significance of the covenant-making and the establishment of peace between
Abraham and Abimelech.
Verse
32:
"So
they made a covenant at Beersheba. Then Abimelech and Phicol the commander of
his army rose up and returned to the land of the Philistines."
This
verse emphasizes that the covenant-making took place at Beersheba. Abimelech,
accompanied by his military commander Phicol, departs from Beersheba and
returns to the land of the Philistines, signifying the conclusion of their
encounter and the establishment of peaceful relations.
Verse
33:
"Abraham
planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba and called there on the name of the Lord,
the Everlasting God."
As
an act of memorial or remembrance, Abraham plants a tamarisk tree in Beersheba.
The planting of the tree signifies the significance of the covenant-making
event and serves as a reminder of God's presence and faithfulness in their
lives. Abraham also engages in worship, calling on the name of the Lord,
recognizing God as the Eternal God.
Verse
34:
"And
Abraham sojourned many days in the land of the Philistines."
The
final verse of this passage notes that Abraham continues to reside in the land
of the Philistines for an extended period of time. This suggests that he
maintains a peaceful and amicable relationship with the Philistines, indicating
the success of the covenant and the fulfillment of the agreement between Abraham
and Abimelech.
In
summary, these verses highlight the naming of Beersheba, the planting of a
tamarisk tree, and the continuation of Abraham's dwelling in the land of the
Philistines. These actions signify the establishment of a lasting covenant, serve
as a memorial of the agreement, and demonstrate the peaceful coexistence
between Abraham and the people of the land.
Important Points
The
fulfillment of God's promise: In this chapter, Sarah
gives birth to Isaac, the promised child of Abraham and Sarah. This event marks
the fulfillment of God's covenant and the continuation of the lineage through
whom the blessings and promises would be passed down.
Conflict
and separation: Sarah becomes jealous of Hagar and her son
Ishmael, leading to tensions and conflict within the household. Sarah insists
that Abraham send Hagar and Ishmael away, resulting in their expulsion from the
household.
God's
reassurance and provision: Despite being cast out into the
wilderness, God reassures Hagar that He will take care of Ishmael. He provides
water for them when they are desperate and promises to make Ishmael into a
great nation.
Making
a covenant with Abimelech: Abraham and Abimelech, the king of
Gerar, establish a covenant and swear an oath, resolving their conflicts and
ensuring peaceful relations between their peoples. This is marked by the naming
of a place called Beersheba.
Abraham's
dwelling among the Philistines: After making the covenant,
Abraham continues to reside in the land of the Philistines for a significant
period of time, highlighting the establishment of a peaceful coexistence
between Abraham and the people of that region.
Overall,
this chapter showcases the fulfillment of God's promise, the conflicts and
separations within Abraham's household, God's reassurance and provision, the
establishment of a covenant with Abimelech, and Abraham's continued dwelling in
the land of the Philistines.
Quotable Quotes
"Is
anything too hard for the Lord?" - Genesis 18:14
This
quote, although not from Genesis 21 directly, reflects the overarching theme of
God's power and ability to fulfill His promises. It emphasizes that nothing is
impossible for God.
"For
through Isaac shall your offspring be named." -
Genesis 21:12
This
quote highlights the specific fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham and Sarah
that their descendants would come through their son Isaac. It underscores the
significance of Isaac in the covenantal lineage.
"Do
not be afraid, for God has heard the voice of the boy where he is." -
Genesis 21:17
These
words, spoken by an angel of God to Hagar, assure her that God has heard the
cries of Ishmael, even in the wilderness. It conveys the comforting presence of
God and His attentiveness to the needs and prayers of His people.
"And
God was with the boy, and he grew up." - Genesis 21:20
This
quote highlights God's continued presence and guidance in Ishmael's life as he
grows up in the wilderness. It emphasizes God's faithfulness in fulfilling His
promise to make Ishmael into a great nation.
"So
Abraham called the name of that place Beersheba." -
Genesis 21:31
This
quote marks the naming of Beersheba, a significant location in the biblical
narrative. It signifies the establishment of a covenant and carries the meaning
of "well of the oath" or "well of seven," reflecting the
events that transpired between Abraham and Abimelech.
These
quotes capture key moments, promises, and actions within Genesis 21,
highlighting the faithfulness of God, the fulfillment of His promises, and the
establishment of significant landmarks and covenants.
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