Genesis 16:6

"Here," said Abram, "your servant is in your hands. Do whatever you want with her." Then Sarai treated Hagar so harshly that she fled from her.

Study Bible

Your servant is in your hands
This phrase reflects the cultural and legal norms of the ancient Near East, where a servant or slave was considered the property of their master. The Hebrew word for "servant" here is "שִׁפְחָה" (shiphchah), which specifically refers to a female servant or maidservant. In the context of Genesis 16, Hagar is the Egyptian maidservant of Sarai, Abram's wife. This phrase indicates Abram's deference to Sarai's authority over Hagar, acknowledging the social and familial hierarchy of the time. It also highlights the patriarchal structure where the husband, Abram, allows his wife, Sarai, to exercise her authority over her maidservant.

Abram replied
Abram's response is significant in understanding his character and the dynamics within his household. The Hebrew root for "replied" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is a common verb used for speaking or saying. Abram's reply is not just a passive acknowledgment but a deliberate decision to allow Sarai to handle the situation as she sees fit. This reflects Abram's trust in Sarai's judgment and his desire to maintain peace within the household, even if it means allowing Sarai to act harshly towards Hagar.

Do whatever you want to her
This phrase underscores the autonomy given to Sarai in dealing with Hagar. The Hebrew word for "want" is "טוֹב" (tov), which generally means good or pleasing. Here, it implies that Sarai has the freedom to act according to what she deems best or appropriate. This reflects the societal norms where the mistress had significant control over her maidservants. It also highlights the tension and conflict that can arise from human attempts to fulfill divine promises through their own means, as Sarai and Abram had done by involving Hagar in their quest for an heir.

Then Sarai mistreated her
The Hebrew word for "mistreated" is "עָנָה" (anah), which can mean to afflict, oppress, or humble. This indicates that Sarai's treatment of Hagar was harsh and possibly abusive. This mistreatment is a direct consequence of the earlier decision to involve Hagar in bearing a child for Abram, showcasing the complications and moral dilemmas that arise from straying from God's plan. It serves as a reminder of the human propensity to sin and the resulting interpersonal conflicts.

so she fled from her
Hagar's decision to flee is a pivotal moment in the narrative. The Hebrew root for "fled" is "בָּרַח" (barach), which means to run away or escape. Hagar's flight represents her desperation and the untenable situation she faced under Sarai's harsh treatment. It also sets the stage for a divine encounter, as God later finds Hagar in the wilderness and makes promises to her and her offspring. This act of fleeing is both a physical and symbolic movement, illustrating the themes of suffering, divine intervention, and the unfolding of God's plan despite human failings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abram
The patriarch of the Hebrew people, later named Abraham. He is a central figure in Genesis, known for his faith and covenant with God.

2. Sarai
Abram's wife, later named Sarah. She is a key figure in the account, struggling with infertility and taking matters into her own hands by giving her maidservant Hagar to Abram.

3. Hagar
An Egyptian maidservant of Sarai, who becomes pregnant by Abram. Her account highlights themes of suffering and divine intervention.

4. Mistreatment of Hagar
Sarai's harsh treatment of Hagar, which leads to Hagar fleeing into the wilderness. This event sets the stage for God's intervention and promises to Hagar.

5. The Wilderness
Represents a place of trial and encounter with God. Hagar's flight into the wilderness is a pivotal moment in her account.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Timing
Sarai's decision to give Hagar to Abram reflects a lack of trust in God's promise. Believers are encouraged to wait on God's timing rather than taking matters into their own hands.

The Consequences of Impatience
The mistreatment of Hagar and the resulting family strife illustrate the negative consequences of acting outside of God's will.

God's Care for the Marginalized
Hagar's account reminds us that God sees and cares for those who are mistreated and marginalized, offering hope and provision.

The Importance of Compassion
Sarai's treatment of Hagar serves as a warning against harshness and a call to treat others with kindness and compassion.

Seeking Reconciliation
The conflict between Sarai and Hagar encourages believers to seek reconciliation and peace in their relationships, reflecting God's love and grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abram's response to Sarai's complaint reflect his role as a leader in his family, and what can we learn from it about leadership and responsibility?

2. In what ways does Sarai's treatment of Hagar challenge us to examine our own attitudes and actions towards those who are vulnerable or under our authority?

3. How does Hagar's experience in the wilderness demonstrate God's faithfulness, and how can this encourage us in our own times of trial?

4. What parallels can you draw between Hagar's account and the experiences of other biblical figures who faced mistreatment or exile, and how does this inform our understanding of God's character?

5. How can the account of Sarai, Abram, and Hagar inform our approach to waiting on God's promises and dealing with impatience in our spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 21:9-21
This passage continues Hagar's account, where she and her son Ishmael are sent away, but God provides for them, showing His faithfulness and care for the marginalized.

Galatians 4:21-31
Paul uses the account of Hagar and Sarah allegorically to contrast the old covenant of the law with the new covenant of grace, emphasizing freedom in Christ.

Exodus 2:23-25
The Israelites' cry for help in Egypt parallels Hagar's distress, highlighting God's attentiveness to the oppressed.