Old Testament
Genesis 16:2
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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.
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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.
What Genesis 16:2 means
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.
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
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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 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.
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