Now Abram’s wife Sarai had borne him no children
This phrase highlights a significant issue in the narrative: Sarai's barrenness. In the ancient Near Eastern context, childbearing was crucial for a woman's status and security. The inability to have children was often seen as a source of shame and a sign of divine disfavor. This situation sets the stage for the unfolding drama and reflects the tension between God's promise to Abram of numerous descendants (Genesis 15:5) and the current reality. The theme of barrenness is recurrent in the Bible, seen in the stories of Rebekah, Rachel, and Hannah, and often precedes a miraculous intervention by God.

but she had an Egyptian maidservant named Hagar
Hagar's introduction is significant for several reasons. As an Egyptian, she represents a connection to Abram's earlier journey to Egypt (Genesis 12:10-20), where he acquired wealth and servants. This detail underscores the broader narrative of God's people interacting with surrounding nations. The mention of Hagar as a maidservant indicates her lower social status, yet she becomes a pivotal figure in the story. Her Egyptian origin also foreshadows future interactions between Israel and Egypt, including the eventual enslavement and exodus. Hagar's role in the narrative introduces themes of power dynamics, cultural intersections, and God's care for the marginalized, as later seen in her encounters with the angel of the Lord (Genesis 16:7-13).

So Sarai said to Abram
This phrase introduces Sarai, Abram's wife, as the speaker. Sarai's role is significant in the narrative of Genesis, as she is part of God's covenant promise to Abram. Her dialogue with Abram reflects the cultural norms of the time, where wives could suggest alternative means to secure an heir. This moment also highlights the dynamics within their marriage, where Sarai takes initiative in addressing their childlessness.

“Look now, the LORD has prevented me from bearing children.
Sarai acknowledges the sovereignty of the LORD in her situation, attributing her barrenness to divine will. In the ancient Near East, childlessness was often seen as a source of shame and a sign of divine disfavor. Sarai's statement reflects her understanding of God's control over fertility, a theme that recurs throughout the Bible, such as in the stories of Rachel and Hannah.

Please go to my maidservant;
Sarai proposes a culturally accepted solution to her barrenness by offering her maidservant, Hagar, to Abram. This practice, known as surrogacy, was common in ancient Mesopotamian societies, as evidenced by legal texts like the Code of Hammurabi. It was a way to ensure the continuation of a family line when the wife was unable to conceive.

perhaps I can build a family by her.”
Sarai's hope is that through Hagar, she might have a child that would be considered her own. This reflects the deep desire for offspring in biblical times, not only for personal fulfillment but also for the continuation of one's lineage and inheritance. The phrase "build a family" indicates the importance of progeny in establishing one's legacy and fulfilling God's promise to Abram of numerous descendants.

And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai.
Abram's decision to heed Sarai's suggestion demonstrates his willingness to follow her plan, despite God's earlier promise of an heir. This action can be compared to Adam listening to Eve in Genesis 3, where human initiative leads to unintended consequences. Abram's compliance sets the stage for future conflict and highlights the tension between human plans and divine promises.

So after he had lived in Canaan for ten years
This phrase indicates a significant period since Abram's arrival in Canaan, highlighting the duration of waiting for God's promise of offspring. The ten-year period underscores the patience and faith required of Abram and Sarai, as they had been promised descendants as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5). This waiting period tests their faith and sets the stage for the subsequent actions taken by Sarai. The number ten often symbolizes completeness or a full measure in biblical numerology, suggesting that this was a complete period of testing.

his wife Sarai took her Egyptian maidservant Hagar
Sarai's action of taking Hagar reflects the customs and legal practices of the ancient Near East, where a barren wife could give her maidservant to her husband to bear children on her behalf. Hagar, being Egyptian, may have been acquired during Abram and Sarai's earlier sojourn in Egypt (Genesis 12:10-20). This cultural practice, while accepted at the time, demonstrates a human attempt to fulfill divine promises through human means, contrasting with the faith-based approach God desires.

and gave her to Abram to be his wife
By giving Hagar to Abram as a wife, Sarai is attempting to secure the promised offspring through culturally acceptable means. This act introduces polygamy into Abram's family, which often leads to strife and complications, as seen in other biblical narratives (e.g., Jacob with Leah and Rachel). The decision reflects a lack of trust in God's timing and plan, leading to future conflict between Sarai and Hagar. This situation foreshadows the tension between the descendants of Ishmael (Hagar's son) and Isaac (Sarai's son), which is a recurring theme in biblical history.

And he slept with Hagar, and she conceived.
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of Abram and Sarai. Abram's union with Hagar, Sarai's Egyptian maidservant, was a culturally accepted practice in the ancient Near East when a wife was barren. This act was intended to produce an heir, reflecting the importance of lineage and inheritance in biblical times. The conception of Hagar signifies the beginning of a complex family dynamic that would have lasting implications for Abram's descendants. This event also foreshadows the birth of Ishmael, who would become the ancestor of many Arab nations, highlighting the long-term consequences of human actions outside of God's original promise.

But when Hagar realized that she was pregnant,
Hagar's awareness of her pregnancy introduces a shift in her status within the household. In ancient cultures, fertility was highly valued, and a woman's ability to bear children was often seen as a sign of divine favor. Hagar's pregnancy would have elevated her position, as she was now carrying Abram's child. This change in status is significant, as it sets the stage for the ensuing conflict between Hagar and Sarai. The narrative underscores the tension between human attempts to fulfill divine promises and the resulting interpersonal strife.

she began to despise her mistress.
Hagar's contempt for Sarai reflects the complex social dynamics at play. Her newfound status as the mother of Abram's child likely led to feelings of superiority over Sarai, who remained barren. This animosity can be seen as a natural consequence of the polygamous arrangement, which often led to rivalry and discord. The Hebrew word translated as "despise" suggests a deep-seated disdain, indicating a significant breakdown in their relationship. This tension foreshadows the eventual expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael, illustrating the broader theme of conflict and reconciliation that runs throughout the biblical narrative.

Then Sarai said to Abram, “May the wrong done to me be upon you!
In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, a wife's inability to bear children was often seen as a personal failure, and surrogate motherhood was a common practice. Sarai's decision to give Hagar to Abram was in line with these customs. However, Sarai's statement reflects her frustration and sense of betrayal. The phrase "may the wrong done to me be upon you" indicates that Sarai holds Abram responsible for the resulting discord, highlighting the patriarchal structure where the husband was seen as the head of the household and responsible for its harmony.

I delivered my servant into your arms,
This phrase underscores Sarai's active role in the decision to give Hagar to Abram. It reflects the legal and social customs of the time, where a wife could offer her maidservant to her husband to bear children on her behalf. This act was meant to secure an heir and ensure the continuation of the family line. The phrase "into your arms" suggests a transfer of authority and responsibility, as Hagar was still considered Sarai's servant despite bearing Abram's child.

and ever since she saw that she was pregnant, she has treated me with contempt.
Hagar's change in attitude upon becoming pregnant is significant. In the ancient world, fertility was highly valued, and a woman's status could be elevated by bearing children. Hagar's contempt for Sarai likely stems from her newfound status as the mother of Abram's child, which she may have perceived as elevating her above Sarai. This shift in dynamics introduces tension and conflict, illustrating the complexities of surrogate arrangements and the emotional turmoil they can cause.

May the LORD judge between you and me.”
Sarai's appeal to the LORD as judge reflects her faith and reliance on divine justice. In the biblical narrative, invoking God's judgment is a serious matter, indicating that Sarai feels deeply wronged and seeks divine intervention to resolve the conflict. This appeal also underscores the covenant relationship between God and Abram's family, as they look to God for guidance and resolution. The invocation of the LORD's judgment highlights the moral and ethical dimensions of the situation, suggesting that human actions are ultimately accountable to divine standards.

“Here,” said Abram, “your servant is in your hands.”
Abram's response to Sarai reflects the cultural norms of the time, where a wife had authority over her maidservant. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a servant or slave was considered the property of their master or mistress, and decisions regarding them were often made by the head of the household. Abram's statement also indicates a relinquishing of responsibility, which can be seen as a lack of leadership in addressing the conflict between Sarai and Hagar. This moment foreshadows the later struggles within Abram's family, highlighting the consequences of human decisions outside of God's direct guidance.

Do whatever you want with her.”
This phrase underscores the power dynamics and social hierarchy of the time. Sarai, as the mistress, had the authority to decide Hagar's fate. The lack of intervention by Abram suggests a passive approach to resolving family disputes, which can be contrasted with later biblical figures who actively seek God's guidance in difficult situations. This moment also reflects the broader biblical theme of human free will and its potential for both good and harm.

Then Sarai treated Hagar so harshly that she fled from her.
Sarai's harsh treatment of Hagar is indicative of the tension and jealousy that arose from Hagar's pregnancy. This act of mistreatment is a turning point in the narrative, leading to Hagar's flight into the wilderness. The harshness can be seen as a reflection of Sarai's own insecurities and frustrations, as well as the broader theme of suffering and oppression found throughout Scripture. Hagar's flight is significant as it sets the stage for her encounter with the angel of the Lord, a moment of divine intervention and promise. This event also prefigures the Exodus narrative, where God's people flee from oppression and are guided by divine presence.

Now the angel of the LORD
The "angel of the LORD" is often understood as a theophany, a manifestation of God Himself, rather than a mere angelic being. This figure appears multiple times in the Old Testament, often delivering messages or providing guidance. In this context, the angel's appearance signifies divine intervention and care for Hagar, an Egyptian maidservant. The angel of the LORD is seen in other key biblical moments, such as with Abraham in Genesis 22 and Moses in Exodus 3, indicating a consistent divine presence and authority.

found Hagar
Hagar, an Egyptian servant of Sarai, is fleeing from her mistress due to mistreatment. Her story highlights themes of God's concern for the marginalized and oppressed. The use of "found" suggests that God actively seeks out those in distress, emphasizing His omniscience and compassion. Hagar's encounter with the divine is significant as it marks one of the few instances where God directly communicates with a woman in the Old Testament.

by a spring of water in the desert
The setting of a spring in the desert is symbolic of life and sustenance in a barren place. Water often represents spiritual refreshment and divine provision in Scripture. This location underscores God's ability to provide for Hagar in her time of need, reflecting His provision for Israel in the wilderness and foreshadowing Jesus as the "living water" in John 4:10-14.

the spring along the road to Shur
The road to Shur indicates a route leading back to Egypt, suggesting Hagar's intention to return to her homeland. Shur is a region on the northeastern border of Egypt, often associated with wilderness and desolation. This geographical detail situates the narrative within a real historical context, providing insight into the ancient Near Eastern world. The mention of Shur also connects to later biblical narratives, such as the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after the Exodus.

Hagar, servant of Sarai,
Hagar is identified as the servant of Sarai, Abram's wife. This highlights her social status and the power dynamics at play. In the ancient Near Eastern context, servants or slaves were often considered property, and their lives were heavily influenced by their masters. Hagar's Egyptian origin (Genesis 16:1) may suggest she was acquired during Abram and Sarai's sojourn in Egypt (Genesis 12:10-20). Her role as Sarai's servant is crucial, as it sets the stage for the conflict arising from Sarai's barrenness and her decision to give Hagar to Abram as a surrogate.

he said,
The speaker here is the Angel of the LORD, a significant figure in the Old Testament often associated with divine appearances. This encounter marks the first time the Angel of the LORD appears in Scripture, indicating the importance of Hagar's story. The Angel's presence suggests divine intervention and care, even for those on the margins of society, like Hagar.

where have you come from, and where are you going?
This question is both literal and metaphorical. Literally, it addresses Hagar's flight from Sarai, but metaphorically, it invites reflection on her past and future. The question implies a concern for Hagar's well-being and prompts her to consider her situation. It echoes God's inquiries in other biblical narratives, such as His questions to Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:9, highlighting a pattern of divine engagement with humanity.

I am running away from my mistress Sarai,
Hagar's response reveals her desperation and the conflict with Sarai. The term "mistress" underscores the hierarchical relationship and the tension resulting from Sarai's harsh treatment (Genesis 16:6). Hagar's flight is an act of defiance and self-preservation, reflecting the broader theme of human struggle and divine oversight. This moment foreshadows future narratives of God's concern for the oppressed, as seen in the Exodus story where God hears the cries of the Israelites in bondage (Exodus 3:7).

So the angel of the LORD told her
The "angel of the LORD" is often understood as a theophany, a manifestation of God Himself, rather than a mere angelic being. This is significant because it indicates the importance of the message being delivered. The angel of the LORD appears at critical moments in the Old Testament, such as to Moses in the burning bush (Exodus 3:2) and to Gideon (Judges 6:11-12). This encounter with Hagar highlights God's personal involvement and care for individuals, even those on the margins of society.

“Return to your mistress
Hagar, an Egyptian maidservant, had fled from Sarai due to harsh treatment. The command to return is significant in the cultural context of the time, where social hierarchies and household structures were rigidly maintained. This directive underscores the importance of order and submission within the household, which was a foundational aspect of ancient Near Eastern society. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of reconciliation and restoration of relationships.

and submit to her authority.”
Submission here is not merely about obedience but involves a deeper trust in God's plan and provision. This mirrors the New Testament teachings on submission found in passages like Ephesians 5:21-24, where believers are called to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. The call to submit is also prophetic, as it foreshadows the ultimate submission of Christ to the Father's will, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross (Philippians 2:5-8). Hagar's submission is a test of faith, trusting that God will fulfill His promises despite her difficult circumstances.

Then the angel added
In this passage, the "angel" is often understood to be the Angel of the Lord, a divine messenger who appears at critical moments in the biblical narrative. This figure is sometimes interpreted as a theophany, a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, due to the authority and divine promises given. The angel's presence signifies a direct intervention from God, emphasizing the importance of the message being delivered.

I will greatly multiply your offspring
This promise of multiplication echoes the covenantal language used with Abraham in Genesis 12:2 and 15:5, where God promises to make Abraham's descendants numerous. It highlights God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, even to Hagar, an Egyptian maidservant. The multiplication of offspring is a common biblical motif, symbolizing blessing, prosperity, and the continuation of a lineage that plays a significant role in God's redemptive plan.

so that they will be too numerous to count
This phrase underscores the vastness of the promise, reminiscent of God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5). It indicates not only a physical multitude but also a significant impact on history and the unfolding of God's purposes. The innumerable offspring foreshadow the future nation of Israel and the many nations that would come from Abraham's lineage, including the Ishmaelites, who are directly descended from Hagar's son, Ishmael. This promise also reflects God's sovereignty and ability to bring about His plans despite human circumstances.

The angel of the LORD proceeded:
The "angel of the LORD" is often understood as a theophany, a manifestation of God Himself, rather than a mere angelic messenger. This appearance signifies the importance of the message being delivered. The angel of the LORD appears at critical moments in the Old Testament, such as to Hagar here, to Abraham in Genesis 22, and to Moses in Exodus 3. This suggests divine intervention and guidance in pivotal moments of biblical history.

Behold, you have conceived and will bear a son:
This announcement is reminiscent of other biblical birth announcements, such as those to Sarah, Rebekah, and Mary. It emphasizes God's sovereignty over life and His involvement in the unfolding of His plan. The promise of a son to Hagar, an Egyptian maidservant, highlights God's care for all people, not just the chosen lineage of Abraham.

And you shall name him Ishmael:
The name "Ishmael" means "God hears," reflecting the divine response to Hagar's distress. Naming in the Bible often signifies character or destiny, and Ishmael's name is a perpetual reminder of God's attentiveness to human suffering. This act of naming by God Himself underscores the significance of Ishmael's role in biblical history.

for the LORD has heard your cry of affliction:
This phrase underscores God's compassion and responsiveness to human suffering. Hagar, though a servant and outsider, is not beyond God's care. This mirrors other instances where God hears the cries of His people, such as the Israelites in Egypt (Exodus 3:7). It also foreshadows the New Testament teaching that God is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). The acknowledgment of Hagar's affliction highlights God's justice and mercy, themes that resonate throughout Scripture.

He will be a wild donkey of a man
This phrase describes Ishmael's nature and character. The "wild donkey" is an animal known for its independence and untamed spirit, often found in the desert regions of the Near East. This imagery suggests that Ishmael and his descendants would lead a nomadic and free-spirited life, not easily subjected to others. The wild donkey's habitat in the wilderness also reflects Ishmael's future dwelling in the desert areas, aligning with the Bedouin lifestyle of many Arab tribes. This description foreshadows the independent and sometimes contentious nature of the Arab peoples historically linked to Ishmael.

and his hand will be against everyone
This part of the prophecy indicates a life of conflict and struggle. Ishmael's descendants would often find themselves in opposition to others, engaging in disputes and warfare. This reflects the historical tensions and conflicts in the Middle East, where Ishmael's lineage is traditionally traced. The phrase suggests a life marked by strife and resistance, both in personal and broader social contexts.

and everyone’s hand against him
This phrase complements the previous one, highlighting mutual hostility. Ishmael's descendants would not only initiate conflict but also be recipients of aggression from others. This mutual antagonism can be seen in the historical interactions between the descendants of Ishmael and other groups, including the Israelites. The prophecy underscores a life of ongoing conflict, where Ishmael's lineage would be both aggressors and defenders.

he will live in hostility toward all his brothers
This final phrase emphasizes the familial and tribal conflicts that would characterize Ishmael's descendants. "Brothers" here can refer to both immediate family and extended kin, including the Israelites, descendants of Isaac. The historical enmity between the Israelites and various Arab tribes is well-documented in the Bible and other historical records. This prophecy highlights the enduring nature of these conflicts, which have persisted through centuries. The phrase also serves as a reminder of the consequences of human actions and decisions, as seen in the story of Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar.

So Hagar gave this name to the LORD who had spoken to her:
Hagar, an Egyptian servant of Sarai, encounters the LORD in the wilderness. This is significant as it marks one of the few instances where God directly communicates with a woman in the Old Testament. The act of naming God is profound, indicating a personal revelation and relationship. In ancient Near Eastern culture, naming was an act of authority and understanding, suggesting Hagar's deep recognition of God's nature. This encounter occurs near a spring on the way to Shur, a region that connects Canaan to Egypt, highlighting Hagar's journey back to her homeland.

“You are the God who sees me,”
Hagar's declaration reveals a personal and intimate understanding of God's character. The Hebrew term "El Roi" is used here, meaning "God who sees." This is the only instance in the Bible where this specific name for God is used, emphasizing His omniscience and care. In the broader biblical narrative, God's ability to see and know individuals is a recurring theme, as seen in Psalm 139:1-4 and Proverbs 15:3. This acknowledgment by Hagar underscores God's attention to the marginalized and oppressed, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture.

for she said, “Here I have seen the One who sees me!”
Hagar's experience is transformative, as she realizes she has encountered the divine. This moment is reminiscent of other theophanies in the Bible, such as Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:2-6) and Jacob wrestling with God (Genesis 32:30). The phrase suggests a mutual recognition between God and Hagar, highlighting the personal nature of God's interactions with humanity. This encounter foreshadows the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ, who is described as the visible image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15) and who sees and knows the hearts of all people (John 1:48-49).

Therefore the well was called Beer-lahai-roi.
The naming of the well Beer-lahai-roi, which means "Well of the Living One who sees me," is significant in the narrative of Hagar, the Egyptian maidservant of Sarai. This well marks the place where the Angel of the Lord appeared to Hagar, offering her comfort and a promise for her future. The name reflects Hagar's recognition of God's presence and care, even in her distress. This encounter is one of the earliest instances of a theophany, where God reveals Himself directly to a person. The well becomes a symbol of divine provision and sight, emphasizing God's omnipresence and His ability to see and respond to human suffering. This theme of God seeing and providing is echoed throughout Scripture, such as in Psalm 139:1-12, where God's intimate knowledge of and care for individuals is celebrated.

It is located between Kadesh and Bered.
The geographical markers of Kadesh and Bered help to situate the well within the broader narrative of the patriarchs. Kadesh, often associated with Kadesh-barnea, is a significant location in the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites, serving as a place of both testing and revelation. Bered is less well-known, but its mention alongside Kadesh suggests a location in the Negev region, south of Canaan. This area is characterized by its arid climate, making the presence of a well particularly vital for survival. The mention of these locations underscores the historical and geographical reality of the biblical narrative, providing a tangible context for the events described. The well's location also foreshadows future events in the lives of the patriarchs, as it becomes a recurring site in the story of Isaac, who later dwells in the region (Genesis 24:62). This continuity highlights the enduring significance of God's promises and the places where He reveals Himself to His people.

And Hagar bore Abram a son
Hagar, an Egyptian maidservant of Sarai, becomes the mother of Abram's first son. This event follows Sarai's decision to give Hagar to Abram as a wife due to her own barrenness (Genesis 16:1-3). The birth of Hagar's son marks a significant moment in biblical history, as it introduces Ishmael, the forefather of many Arab nations. The cultural practice of a maidservant bearing a child on behalf of her mistress was not uncommon in the ancient Near East, reflecting the societal norms and familial structures of the time.

and Abram gave the name Ishmael
The name Ishmael means "God hears," signifying God's response to Hagar's affliction and distress (Genesis 16:11). This naming by Abram indicates his acceptance and recognition of the child as his own, despite the unconventional circumstances of his birth. The act of naming also reflects the patriarchal authority Abram holds within his family. Ishmael's name is a testament to God's providence and involvement in the lives of Abram and Hagar, as well as a foreshadowing of Ishmael's future as a significant figure in biblical history.

to the son she had borne
This phrase emphasizes Hagar's role as the biological mother of Ishmael, highlighting the fulfillment of the angel of the Lord's prophecy to her (Genesis 16:10-11). The acknowledgment of Hagar's motherhood is crucial, as it establishes Ishmael's lineage and his connection to Abram. The birth of Ishmael sets the stage for future tensions between his descendants and those of Isaac, Abram's son with Sarai, which are explored in later biblical narratives. This moment also underscores the complexity of God's promises to Abram, as Ishmael's birth precedes the covenantal promise of Isaac.

Abram was eighty-six years old
Abram's age at this point in the narrative highlights the long period he and Sarai had waited for the fulfillment of God's promise of offspring. This delay tests their faith and patience, a recurring theme in Abram's life. The age also underscores the miraculous nature of God's promise, as Abram is well beyond the typical age for fathering children. This sets the stage for the later miraculous birth of Isaac when Abram is even older.

when Hagar bore Ishmael to him.
Hagar, an Egyptian maidservant, was given to Abram by Sarai in an attempt to fulfill God's promise through human means. This act reflects the cultural practices of the time, where a childless wife might provide her maidservant to her husband to bear children on her behalf. Ishmael's birth is significant as it introduces the line from which many Arab nations trace their ancestry. Theologically, Ishmael's birth represents human efforts to achieve divine promises, contrasting with the later birth of Isaac, which is solely the result of God's intervention. Ishmael's life and descendants are also part of God's plan, as seen in later scriptures where God promises to make Ishmael a great nation.