Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionThe term "bastard" in biblical contexts often refers to a child born out of wedlock or one who does not have a legitimate claim to inheritance. In the Bible, Ishmael is a prominent figure who is sometimes associated with this term due to the circumstances of his birth. Ishmael was the first son of Abraham, born to Hagar, Sarah's Egyptian maidservant. His account is primarily found in the Book of Genesis. Biblical Account Ishmael's narrative begins in Genesis 16. Sarah, Abraham's wife, was barren and advanced in years. In an attempt to fulfill God's promise of descendants to Abraham, Sarah gave her maidservant Hagar to Abraham as a wife. Hagar conceived and bore Ishmael. The Bible states, "So Hagar bore Abram a son, and Abram gave the name Ishmael to the son she had borne" (Genesis 16:15). Ishmael's Status Ishmael's status as a "bastard" is derived from the fact that he was not the child of Sarah, Abraham's wife, but of Hagar, her maidservant. This distinction is significant in the biblical narrative, as it affects Ishmael's role in the Abrahamic covenant. Although Ishmael was Abraham's firstborn, God made it clear that the covenant would be established through Isaac, the son born to Sarah. In Genesis 17:19, God tells Abraham, "Your wife Sarah will bear you a son, and you will call him Isaac. I will establish My covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him" . God's Promise to Ishmael Despite not being the child of promise, God did not abandon Ishmael. In Genesis 17:20, God assures Abraham, "As for Ishmael, I have heard you; I will surely bless him; I will make him fruitful and will multiply him greatly. He will be the father of twelve rulers, and I will make him into a great nation" . This promise indicates that while Ishmael was not the heir of the covenant, he was still under God's care and destined for greatness. Ishmael's Legacy Ishmael's legacy is complex. He is considered the progenitor of several Arab tribes, and his descendants are often associated with the Arab peoples. The Bible records that Ishmael had twelve sons, who became tribal leaders, as noted in Genesis 25:13-16. His life and lineage are significant in understanding the broader narrative of the descendants of Abraham and their roles in biblical history. Conclusion Ishmael's account is a testament to God's providence and the complexities of human relationships within the framework of divine promises. While he was not the child through whom the covenant was established, Ishmael was still blessed and became a significant figure in biblical history. His narrative serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His plans through both chosen and non-chosen lines. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 16:3,15And Sarai Abram's wife took Hagar her maid the Egyptian, after Abram had dwelled ten years in the land of Canaan, and gave her to her husband Abram to be his wife. Nave's Topical Index Galatians 4:22 Library On the Baptism of Christ. The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Beginning at Jerusalem. --Luke xxiv. 47. The Jerusalem Sinner Saved; Resources Can a child who is conceived out of wedlock be saved? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is Queen Mary I of England known as Bloody Mary? | GotQuestions.org Bastard: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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