“Wherefore she said unto Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac.”
This verse is part of the narrative in Genesis that describes the birth of Isaac, the promised son of Abraham and Sarah. Prior to Isaac’s birth, Sarah had been unable to conceive, so she suggested that Abraham father a child with her maidservant, Hagar. As a result, Ishmael was born to Hagar. However, after Sarah miraculously conceived and gave birth to Isaac, tensions arose within the household.
In this particular verse, Sarah expresses her frustration and concern to Abraham regarding Ishmael’s place in their family. She insists that Ishmael and his mother, Hagar, be cast out, emphasizing that Ishmael should not be considered an heir alongside Isaac. This request by Sarah reflects her desire to secure Isaac’s position as the sole inheritor of Abraham’s blessings and promises from God.
The context of this passage reveals the complexities and challenges faced by Abraham’s family. It highlights the consequences of their attempts to fulfill God’s promise through their own efforts, rather than trusting in His timing and plan. The birth of Ishmael through Hagar was a result of Sarah and Abraham’s impatience, and it caused division and tension within their household.
It’s important to note that this passage should not be seen as an endorsement of mistreatment or abandonment of individuals, as it is specific to the circumstances of Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, and Ishmael. Rather, it serves as a historical account of the events that transpired in the lives of these individuals and the complexities that arose from their actions.
Overall, Genesis 21:10 reveals the consequences of Abraham and Sarah’s decision to involve Hagar in their quest for a child, as well as Sarah’s concern for Isaac’s inheritance and the subsequent request to remove Hagar and Ishmael from their household.
