Biblical Context:
Hagar, an Egyptian maidservant to Sarai (later Sarah), is a significant figure in the Genesis narrative. Her account is primarily found in Genesis 16 and 21. Hagar's encounter with God occurs after she flees from Sarai, who dealt harshly with her due to the tensions arising from Hagar's pregnancy with Abram's (later Abraham) child, Ishmael.

The Encounter:
In Genesis 16, Hagar, pregnant and distressed, flees into the wilderness. It is here that the Angel of the LORD finds her by a spring of water in the desert, on the road to Shur. The Angel addresses her, asking, "Hagar, servant of Sarai, where have you come from, and where are you going?" (Genesis 16:8). Hagar explains her plight, and the Angel instructs her to return to Sarai and submit to her authority, promising that her descendants will be too numerous to count.

Naming of God:
In this profound encounter, Hagar receives a divine promise concerning her son, Ishmael, and his future. The Angel of the LORD tells her, "Behold, you have conceived and will bear a son. You shall name him Ishmael, for the LORD has heard your affliction" (Genesis 16:11). In response to this revelation and the compassionate attention she receives, Hagar names the LORD who spoke to her, "You are the God who sees me," for she said, "Here I have seen the One who sees me" (Genesis 16:13). The Hebrew name she uses is "El Roi," which translates to "God of Seeing" or "God who sees."

Significance:
Hagar's naming of God as "El Roi" is significant for several reasons. It is one of the earliest recorded instances in Scripture where a human assigns a name to God, highlighting a personal and intimate encounter with the Divine. This name reflects God's omniscience and His compassionate awareness of human suffering. Hagar, an outsider and a servant, experiences God's attention and care, demonstrating that God's concern transcends social and ethnic boundaries.

Theological Implications:
Hagar's experience underscores the theme of God's providence and care for the marginalized and oppressed. Her account reveals that God is not distant but is actively involved in the lives of individuals, especially those in distress. The name "El Roi" affirms that God sees and understands the struggles of His people, offering hope and assurance of His presence.

Cultural and Historical Context:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, names held significant meaning and were often reflective of personal experiences or divine encounters. Hagar's naming of God aligns with this cultural practice, as it encapsulates her encounter with the Divine and the promise she received. Her account also highlights the complex social dynamics of the time, including issues of servitude, family, and inheritance.

Legacy:
Hagar's naming of God as "El Roi" has resonated throughout biblical history and theology, serving as a reminder of God's intimate knowledge and care for each individual. Her account is a testament to God's faithfulness and His ability to bring hope and purpose out of challenging circumstances.