Topical Encyclopedia The Ishmaelites, descendants of Ishmael, the first son of Abraham through Hagar, are a significant group in biblical history. The narrative of Ishmael and his progeny is woven throughout the Scriptures, with particular emphasis on the divine promises and predictions concerning their future.Biblical Background Ishmael was born to Abraham and Hagar, Sarah's Egyptian maidservant, as recorded in Genesis 16. His birth was a result of Sarah's impatience for God's promise of a son through her, leading her to offer Hagar to Abraham. Despite the circumstances of his birth, God had a distinct plan for Ishmael and his descendants. Divine Promises to Ishmael The Bible records specific promises made by God concerning Ishmael and his descendants. In Genesis 16:10, the Angel of the Lord speaks to Hagar, saying, "I will greatly multiply your offspring so that they will be too numerous to count." This promise indicates a future of vast multiplication and growth for Ishmael's lineage. Further, in Genesis 17:20, God reassures Abraham regarding Ishmael, stating, "As for Ishmael, I have heard you; behold, I will bless him and make him fruitful and multiply him exceedingly. He will become the father of twelve rulers, and I will make him into a great nation." This promise not only assures Abraham of Ishmael's prosperity but also foretells the establishment of a significant and influential nation. Fulfillment of the Promises The fulfillment of these promises is evident in the genealogical records and historical accounts within the Scriptures. Genesis 25:12-16 lists the twelve sons of Ishmael, who became tribal leaders, known as princes, each governing their own territory. This aligns with the prophecy of Ishmael fathering twelve rulers. The Ishmaelites, as a people, are often associated with the nomadic tribes of the Arabian Peninsula. Their influence and presence are noted in various biblical narratives, including the account of Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers to a caravan of Ishmaelites (Genesis 37:25-28). Significance in Biblical Prophecy The prediction of Ishmael's descendants becoming a great nation is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, regardless of human circumstances. The Ishmaelites' growth into a formidable and numerous people serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to bring about His purposes through all peoples and nations. The legacy of the Ishmaelites, as foretold in the Scriptures, underscores the broader biblical theme of God's providential care and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through diverse lineages and nations. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 21:13,18And also of the son of the female slave will I make a nation, because he is your seed. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Sovereignty of God in Operation Resources Who were the Ishmaelites? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Ishmael in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org How long was Joseph in prison? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Ishmaelites: Called Midianites Ishmaelites: Enemies to Israel Ishmaelites: Merchants of, Buy Joseph Ishmaelites: Region Occupied By The Ishmaelites were the Merchants of the East The Ishmaelites: Called: Arabians The Ishmaelites: Called: Hagarenes The Ishmaelites: Called: Hagarites The Ishmaelites: Descended from Abraham's Son, Ishmael The Ishmaelites: Divided Into Twelve Tribes The Ishmaelites: Dwelt in Tents The Ishmaelites: Governed by Kings The Ishmaelites: Heads of Tribes The Ishmaelites: Often Confederate Against Israel The Ishmaelites: Original Possessions of The Ishmaelites: Overcome by Gideon The Ishmaelites: Overcome by Reubenites and Gadites The Ishmaelites: Overcome by Uzziah The Ishmaelites: Predictions Respecting: Their Glory to be Diminished The Ishmaelites: Predictions Respecting: Their Submission to Christ The Ishmaelites: Predictions Respecting: To be a Great Nation The Ishmaelites: Predictions Respecting: To be Divided Into Twelve Tribes The Ishmaelites: Predictions Respecting: To be Judged With the Nations The Ishmaelites: Predictions Respecting: To be Numerous The Ishmaelites: Predictions Respecting: To be Warlike and Predatory The Ishmaelites: Predictions Respecting: To be Wild and Savage The Ishmaelites: Predictions Respecting: To Continue Independent The Ishmaelites: Probably Preached to by Paul The Ishmaelites: Rich in Cattle The Ishmaelites: Sent Flocks to Jehoshaphat The Ishmaelites: Sent Presents to Solomon The Ishmaelites: Travelled in Large Companies or Caravans The Ishmaelites: Waylaid and Plundered Travellers The Ishmaelites: Wore Ornaments of Gold Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |