The mistreatment of Hagar is a significant narrative found in the Book of Genesis, which highlights themes of human frailty, divine intervention, and the unfolding of God's covenantal promises. Hagar, an Egyptian maidservant to Sarai (later Sarah), becomes a central figure in the patriarchal narratives due to her interactions with Abram (later Abraham) and Sarai.

Background and Context

Hagar's account is primarily recounted in Genesis 16 and Genesis 21. She enters the biblical narrative as Sarai's maidservant. Sarai, who is barren, offers Hagar to Abram as a surrogate to bear a child. This decision reflects the ancient Near Eastern customs of the time, where a maidservant could serve as a surrogate to produce an heir.

Genesis 16:1-6

In Genesis 16, Sarai, unable to conceive, suggests that Abram take Hagar as a concubine to produce an heir. Abram consents, and Hagar conceives. Upon realizing her pregnancy, Hagar's attitude towards Sarai changes, leading to tension between the two women. Sarai, feeling despised, complains to Abram, who responds by giving Sarai the authority to deal with Hagar as she sees fit. Sarai's harsh treatment causes Hagar to flee into the wilderness.

The Berean Standard Bible states: "Then Sarai said to Abram, 'May the wrong done to me be upon you. I put my servant into your arms, and ever since she saw that she was pregnant, she has despised me. May the LORD judge between you and me.' 'Here,' said Abram, 'your servant is in your hands. Do whatever you want with her.' Then Sarai mistreated Hagar, so she fled from her." (Genesis 16:5-6)

Divine Encounter and Promise

In the wilderness, Hagar encounters the Angel of the LORD, who instructs her to return to Sarai and submit to her authority. The Angel also delivers a promise that Hagar's descendants will be too numerous to count, and her son, Ishmael, will be a "wild donkey of a man" (Genesis 16:12), living in hostility with his brothers. This divine encounter underscores God's care and provision for Hagar, despite her marginalized status.

Genesis 21:8-21

The narrative of Hagar continues in Genesis 21, after the birth of Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah. Tensions resurface when Sarah sees Ishmael mocking Isaac during a feast. Sarah demands that Abraham send Hagar and Ishmael away, stating that Ishmael will not share in the inheritance with Isaac. Abraham is distressed, but God reassures him, instructing him to heed Sarah's request, as Isaac is the child of promise. However, God also promises to make a nation of Ishmael because he is Abraham's offspring.

The BSB recounts: "But God said to Abraham, 'Do not be distressed about the boy and your maidservant. Listen to everything Sarah tells you, for through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned. But I will also make a nation of the slave woman’s son, because he is your offspring.'" (Genesis 21:12-13)

Hagar and Ishmael are sent into the desert with limited provisions. When their water runs out, Hagar, in despair, distances herself from Ishmael, not wanting to witness his death. God hears the boy's cries and sends an angel to comfort Hagar, opening her eyes to a well of water. This divine intervention ensures their survival and reiterates God's promise concerning Ishmael.

Theological Implications

The mistreatment of Hagar highlights the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of taking matters into one's own hands rather than waiting on God's timing. It also illustrates God's compassion and faithfulness, as He provides for Hagar and Ishmael despite their marginalized status. The narrative serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to work through flawed human actions to fulfill His divine purposes.