“And the thing was very grievous in Abraham’s sight because of his son.”
Genesis 21:11 is part of the narrative that describes the events surrounding the birth of Isaac, the promised son of Abraham and Sarah. This verse reveals Abraham’s reaction to Sarah’s demand that he cast out Hagar, the mother of Ishmael, and her son Ishmael.
To fully understand the significance of this verse, it is helpful to provide some context. In Genesis 16, we learn that Sarah, who was barren, allowed her husband Abraham to have a child with her Egyptian maidservant, Hagar. Hagar became pregnant and gave birth to Ishmael. However, Sarah became jealous and mistreated Hagar, leading her to flee into the wilderness. In Genesis 17, God reaffirms His promise to Abraham that he would have a son through Sarah, and that the covenant would be established with him.
In Genesis 21, God fulfills His promise to Abraham and Sarah, and they have a son named Isaac in their old age. Sarah’s joy at the birth of her son is evident in Genesis 21:6 when she says, “God hath made me to laugh, so that all that hear will laugh with me.” This verse contrasts with the situation that arises in Genesis 21:9-10.
In Genesis 21:9-10, Sarah observes Ishmael mocking Isaac, possibly due to jealousy or rivalry. This distresses Sarah, and she demands that Abraham cast out Hagar and Ishmael, saying, “Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac.”
Genesis 21:11 captures Abraham’s reaction to Sarah’s demand. It describes his response as “very grievous,” indicating that he was deeply troubled by the situation. Abraham’s grief can be understood from various perspectives:
Fatherly Love: Abraham had a deep affection for Ishmael, whom he had raised as his own son. The prospect of sending away his child would naturally cause him great distress.
Conflict of Loyalties: Abraham was torn between his loyalty to Sarah, his wife, and his concern for Ishmael. Sarah’s demand put him in a difficult position, as he loved both his wife and his son.
God’s Promise: Abraham may have also experienced anguish because casting out Ishmael would seem to contradict God’s earlier promise to bless Ishmael and make him a great nation (Genesis 17:20). Abraham may have wondered how this promise would be fulfilled if Ishmael was sent away.
Ultimately, despite his anguish, Abraham obeys God’s command and sends Hagar and Ishmael away. God reassures Abraham in Genesis 21:12, saying, “And God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight because of the lad, and because of thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called.” God confirms His plan for the covenant to be established through Isaac, while also promising to bless and make a great nation of Ishmael.
Genesis 21:11 serves as a poignant reminder of the complex emotions and challenges faced by Abraham as he navigates the tension between his family relationships and God’s promises. It highlights the human struggle between personal desires, love for family, and obedience to God’s will. Ultimately, this passage emphasizes the importance of trust and faith in God’s plan, even when it requires difficult decisions and sacrifices.
