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Genesis 16 Commentary

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Genesis 16:1-4 meaning

Since they still had no children, Sarai convinces Abram to have a child through Hagar. A son would be a legal heir according to the customs at that time.

Genesis 16:5-6 meaning

After Hagar conceived, she treated Sarai disrespectfully. Sarai asks Abram to address the situation. Abram puts Hagar back under Sarai’s authority. She treats Hagar harshly and Hagar flees as a consequence.

Genesis 16:7-9 meaning

As pregnant Hagar is running away, she meets the angel of the Lord. He tells her to return and submit to Sarai’s authority.

Genesis 16:10-12 meaning

The angel of the Lord promised Hagar she will have numerous descendants. He tells her to name the baby “Ishmael” and that he will, unlike Hagar, be a free and independent man who will bow to no one.

Genesis 16:13-16 meaning

Hagar recognized the angel to be God. She returned and bore a son to Abram. They named him Ishmael.