Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Sarai, later known as Sarah, is a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, particularly in the Book of Genesis. She is the wife of Abram (later Abraham) and the mother of Isaac. Sarai's account is integral to the narrative of the patriarchs and the unfolding of God's covenant with Abraham. Etymology and Name Change: The name "Sarai" is believed to mean "my princess" or "princess." In Genesis 17:15, God changes her name to "Sarah," which also means "princess," signifying her role as the matriarch of nations and the mother of kings. This name change marks a pivotal moment in her life, reflecting God's promise and blessing. Family and Early Life: Sarai was the daughter of Terah, making her Abram's half-sister, as they shared the same father but not the same mother (Genesis 20:12). She was born in Ur of the Chaldeans, a city in ancient Mesopotamia. Sarai's marriage to Abram is first mentioned in Genesis 11:29. Journey to Canaan: Sarai accompanied Abram on his journey from Ur to Haran and eventually to Canaan, following God's call to Abram to leave his homeland and go to a land that He would show him (Genesis 12:1-5). This journey marks the beginning of the fulfillment of God's promise to make Abram a great nation. The Egyptian Sojourn: During a famine in Canaan, Abram and Sarai traveled to Egypt. Fearing for his life because of Sarai's beauty, Abram instructed her to say she was his sister. Pharaoh took Sarai into his palace, but God intervened by sending plagues upon Pharaoh's household, leading to Sarai's release (Genesis 12:10-20). Promise of a Son: Despite God's promise to Abram that he would have numerous descendants, Sarai remained barren for many years. In her impatience, she gave her maidservant Hagar to Abram as a concubine, resulting in the birth of Ishmael (Genesis 16:1-4). However, God reaffirmed His promise to Abram, stating that Sarai would bear a son. In Genesis 17:16, God declares, "I will bless her and will surely give you a son by her. I will bless her, and she will be the mother of nations; kings of peoples will descend from her." Birth of Isaac: At the age of ninety, Sarai gave birth to Isaac, as God had promised (Genesis 21:1-3). This miraculous event occurred despite her initial laughter and doubt when she overheard the promise of a son (Genesis 18:10-15). Isaac's birth is a testament to God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His covenant. Role and Legacy: Sarai, as Sarah, is revered as a matriarch in the Judeo-Christian tradition. Her life exemplifies faith, obedience, and the complexities of human emotions and relationships. She is mentioned in the New Testament as a model of faith and submission (Hebrews 11:11; 1 Peter 3:6). Death and Burial: Sarah lived to be 127 years old. Her death is recorded in Genesis 23:1-2, and she was buried in the Cave of Machpelah, which Abraham purchased as a family burial site. This act of securing a burial place in Canaan underscores the significance of the land promised to Abraham and his descendants. Conclusion: Sarai's account is a foundational narrative in the Bible, illustrating the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the lineage of Abraham. Her life, marked by trials and triumphs, continues to inspire and teach lessons of faith and perseverance. Concordance Sar'ai (12 Occurrences)Genesis 11:29 Genesis 11:30 Genesis 11:31 Genesis 12:5 Genesis 12:11 Genesis 12:17 Genesis 16:1 Genesis 16:2 Genesis 16:5 Genesis 16:6 Genesis 16:8 Genesis 17:15 Thesaurus Sar'ai (12 Occurrences)Sar'ai. Sarai, Sar'ai. Saraiah . Multi-Version Concordance Sar'ai (12 Occurrences). Genesis 11:29 And Abram and Nahor took them ... /s/sar'ai.htm - 9k Sarai (13 Occurrences) Saraiah (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |