Old Testament
Genesis 16:11
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, the angel of the LORD speaks to Hagar, a woman in distress.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
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."
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.
Verse Analysis
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. Explore related gods.
Related Bible verses
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
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.
The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
Unlock the full Genesis summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Genesis — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 50 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Genesis summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.