Old Testament
Genesis 16:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The angel of the LORD continued, "You are pregnant and will give birth to a son. You are to name him Ishmael, because the LORD has heard your suffering."
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And the angel of the LORD said unto her, Behold, thou art with child, and shalt bear a son, and shalt call his name Ishmael; because the LORD hath heard thy affliction.
What Genesis 16:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, the angel of the LORD speaks to Hagar, a woman in distress. She is pregnant and will have a son named Ishmael, which means 'God hears.' This name is significant because it reflects God's awareness of her pain and struggles. Hagar, feeling alone and abandoned, receives a message of hope. The angel reassures her that her suffering has not gone unnoticed. God is attentive to her plight, showing that even in difficult times, there is a divine presence that cares. This encounter highlights the importance of recognizing that we are not alone in our struggles. God sees us, hears us, and responds to our needs, even when we feel invisible. Hagar's story reminds us that our pain matters and that we can find comfort in knowing that God is listening and understands our suffering. This message is timeless, offering hope to anyone who feels overlooked or unheard in their own life journey. It encourages us to trust that we are seen and valued by a loving Creator who cares deeply for us.
How to apply Genesis 16:11 to your life
When facing difficult times, remember that you are not alone. God sees your struggles and hears your cries for help. Take comfort in knowing that your pain matters. Reach out to others for support, and trust that there is hope ahead. You are valued and loved, even in your darkest moments. “God hears” is a powerful reminder of His presence in our lives. “God hears” is a powerful reminder of His presence in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Abraham's story: Ishmael Is Born (Genesis 16:1–16)
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Abraham
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ishmael mean in Genesis 16:11?
Ishmael means 'God hears.' This name is significant because it reflects God's awareness of Hagar's suffering and her situation. The angel of the LORD tells Hagar that she will give birth to a son named Ishmael, emphasizing that God has heard her cries and is attentive to her pain.
Why was Hagar in distress when the angel spoke to her?
Hagar was in distress because she was a servant who had been mistreated by Sarai, her mistress. After becoming pregnant, she faced harsh treatment and felt abandoned and alone. The angel's message provided her with hope and reassurance that God was aware of her suffering.
What is the significance of the angel of the LORD speaking to Hagar?
The angel of the LORD speaking to Hagar is significant because it shows that God cares for those who are marginalized and suffering. Hagar, a woman in a difficult position, receives a personal message from God, highlighting that divine attention is given to all, regardless of their status or circumstances.
How can Genesis 16:11 provide comfort in times of suffering?
Genesis 16:11 can provide comfort by reminding us that God sees and hears our struggles. Just as He acknowledged Hagar's pain, He is aware of our own difficulties. This verse encourages us to trust that we are not alone and that our suffering is recognized by a caring Creator.
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