Genesis 24:36

My master's wife Sarah has borne him a son in her old age, and my master has given him everything he owns.

Study Bible

Sarah my master’s wife
This phrase highlights the significant role of Sarah, the wife of Abraham, in the fulfillment of God's covenant. The Hebrew name "Sarah" means "princess," reflecting her esteemed position. In the biblical narrative, Sarah is a matriarch, and her life is a testament to God's faithfulness. Her account is intertwined with themes of promise and fulfillment, as she bore Isaac, the child of promise, despite her old age. This miraculous birth underscores the divine intervention and the unfolding of God's plan through the lineage of Abraham.

bore a son
The act of bearing a son, especially in Sarah's old age, is a pivotal moment in the Genesis narrative. The Hebrew verb "yalad" (to bear or bring forth) is used here, emphasizing the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth. This event is not just a personal triumph for Sarah and Abraham but a crucial step in the establishment of the Israelite nation. Isaac's birth is a direct fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations (Genesis 17:4-6).

to my master
The term "master" refers to Abraham, a central figure in the biblical narrative. Abraham is often seen as a model of faith and obedience, having left his homeland in response to God's call. The Hebrew word "adon" (master or lord) signifies respect and authority. Abraham's relationship with God is foundational to the covenantal promises that shape the rest of the biblical story. His faith journey is marked by trust in God's promises, even when fulfillment seemed impossible.

in her old age
This phrase underscores the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth. Sarah was well beyond the typical childbearing years, highlighting the divine intervention required for this event. The Hebrew term "zaqen" (old) is used to describe Sarah's advanced age, emphasizing the impossibility of the situation from a human perspective. This miracle serves as a testament to God's power and faithfulness, reinforcing the theme that nothing is too difficult for the Lord (Genesis 18:14).

and he has given him everything he owns
This statement reflects the transfer of Abraham's wealth and blessings to Isaac, the child of promise. The Hebrew verb "natan" (to give) indicates a deliberate and generous act. Isaac's inheritance is not just material wealth but also the spiritual legacy of God's covenant with Abraham. This transfer signifies the continuation of God's promises through Isaac, who becomes the next patriarch in the line leading to the nation of Israel. The phrase underscores the importance of inheritance and legacy in the biblical narrative, as God's promises are passed down through generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
The patriarch of the Israelite nation, who is the master referred to in this verse. He is a man of faith, chosen by God to father a great nation.

2. Sarah
Abraham's wife, who miraculously bore a son, Isaac, in her old age, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham.

3. Isaac
The son of Abraham and Sarah, who is the heir to Abraham's wealth and God's promises. His birth is a testament to God's faithfulness.

4. Eliezer
Abraham's servant, who is tasked with finding a wife for Isaac. He is the speaker in this verse, recounting the blessings of his master.

5. Canaan
The land where these events take place, significant as the land promised by God to Abraham and his descendants.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
God's promises are sure, even when circumstances seem impossible. Sarah's conception in old age is a testament to God's power and faithfulness.

Inheritance and Legacy
Isaac receiving everything Abraham owns symbolizes the spiritual inheritance believers receive through faith. We are heirs of God's promises.

Divine Timing
God's timing is perfect. Sarah's late-in-life motherhood reminds us that God's plans unfold in His timing, not ours.

Role of Servants
Eliezer's role highlights the importance of faithful service and obedience in fulfilling God's purposes. We are called to serve faithfully in our roles.

Trust in God's Provision
Just as Abraham trusted God to provide a son and an heir, we are called to trust God to provide for our needs and fulfill His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the miraculous birth of Isaac encourage us to trust in God's promises, even when they seem delayed or impossible?

2. In what ways does the inheritance given to Isaac reflect the spiritual inheritance we receive as believers in Christ?

3. How can we apply the example of Eliezer's faithful service in our own lives and ministries today?

4. What lessons can we learn from Sarah's account about waiting on God's timing and trusting His plan?

5. How does the account of Isaac's birth and inheritance connect to the New Testament teachings on faith and promise, particularly in Galatians 4?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 17
This chapter details God's covenant with Abraham, including the promise of a son through Sarah, which is fulfilled in Genesis 24:36.

Hebrews 11
This chapter highlights the faith of Abraham and Sarah, emphasizing the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth as a fulfillment of God's promise.

Galatians 4
Paul uses the account of Sarah and Isaac to illustrate the difference between living under the law and living by the promise, showing the spiritual significance of Isaac's birth.