Old Testament
Genesis 16:2
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, Sarai feels desperate because she cannot have children.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Sarai told Abram, "Look, the LORD has kept me from having children. Please sleep with my servant. Perhaps I can have a family through her." Abram agreed to what Sarai said.
And Sarai said unto Abram, Behold now, the LORD hath restrained me from bearing: I pray thee, go in unto my maid; it may be that I may obtain children by her. And Abram hearkened to the voice of Sarai.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Sarai feels desperate because she cannot have children. She believes that God has prevented her from becoming a mother. To solve her problem, she suggests that her husband, Abram, have a child with her servant. Sarai hopes that through this arrangement, she can build a family. Abram listens to Sarai and agrees to her plan. This moment highlights the struggle of waiting for God's promises and the lengths people might go to fulfill their desires. It also shows how human solutions can complicate divine plans. The story invites us to reflect on our own impatience and the choices we make when we feel stuck. Trusting in God's timing can be challenging, but it is essential for a fulfilling life. Sarai's decision leads to significant consequences, reminding us that our actions can have lasting effects on our lives and relationships. This narrative encourages us to seek God's guidance rather than relying solely on our understanding and plans, especially in difficult situations. Explore related desperation.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 16:2 to your life
When faced with challenges, it's easy to take matters into our own hands. Instead of rushing into decisions, we should pause and seek guidance. Reflect on your current struggles and consider how patience and trust in a higher plan can lead to better outcomes. Remember, your choices matter and can shape your future significantly. Trusting the process is key to peace and fulfillment in life. “Trust the timing of your life.” “Patience is a virtue.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 16:2 mean?
Genesis 16:2 describes Sarai's desperation over her inability to have children. She suggests that Abram have a child with her servant to fulfill their desire for a family, highlighting the struggle of waiting for God's promises.
What is the significance of Sarai's suggestion in Genesis 16:2?
Sarai's suggestion to use her servant as a surrogate reflects her impatience and desire to control her situation. It shows how human solutions can complicate divine plans and lead to unforeseen consequences.
What does the phrase 'the LORD has kept me from having children' mean in Genesis 16:2?
This phrase indicates Sarai's belief that God is the reason for her infertility. It underscores her feelings of frustration and helplessness in the face of her circumstances.
How does Genesis 16:2 relate to trusting God's timing?
This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting God's timing rather than rushing into decisions. Sarai's actions demonstrate how impatience can lead to complications in life and relationships.
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.