And as for Ishmael, I haue heard thee: behold, I haue blessed him, and will make him fruitfull, and will multiplie him exceedingly: Twelue princes shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation. Genesis 17:20 (KJV)
This verse belongs to the narrative in Genesis where God establishes His covenant with Abram, later called Abraham, and promises that he will become the father of many nations. In Genesis 17:20 God addresses Abraham concerning Ishmael, the son of Abram and Hagar, and assures him of blessings and promises for his son.
The context is essential. Earlier, in Genesis 16, Abram and Sarai (later Sarah) took matters into their own hands when they thought God’s promise of a son was delayed. Sarai suggested that Abram have a child with her maidservant Hagar, resulting in Ishmael’s birth. Although Ishmael was not the child of promise through whom the covenant would be fulfilled, God reaffirmed His covenant with Abraham in Genesis 17 and promised a son through Sarah—Isaac.
In this verse God reassures Abraham that He has heard his plea regarding Ishmael. Despite Ishmael not being the chosen heir, God does not overlook him; He blesses Ishmael, promising to make him fruitful and to multiply him exceedingly.
God declares that Ishmael will be the father of twelve princes, indicating that his descendants will form twelve distinct tribes or ruling families. He also promises to make Ishmael a great nation, signifying a numerous and influential lineage.
The fulfillment of this promise is seen in the historical development of the Arab peoples, who trace their ancestry to Ishmael. His descendants have played a significant role in the Middle Eastern region throughout history, confirming God’s faithfulness to His word.
Overall, Genesis 17:20 showcases God’s grace and inclusivity within His chosen people. Though Ishmael was not the child of promise, God blessed him and ensured his prosperity, highlighting divine sovereignty and the ability to fulfill promises in diverse ways while establishing the broader biblical significance of Ishmael’s lineage.
