Old Testament
Genesis 21:10
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, Sarah expresses her deep concern about the future of her son Isaac.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
So she told Abraham, "Send this slave woman and her son away, because the son of this slave woman will not share the inheritance with my son Isaac."
Wherefore she said unto Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Sarah expresses her deep concern about the future of her son Isaac. She feels threatened by the presence of Hagar and her son Ishmael, fearing that they might share in Isaac's inheritance. This reflects a common human instinct to protect what we hold dear, especially when it comes to family. Sarah's demand for Abraham to send Hagar and Ishmael away highlights the tension and conflict that can arise in relationships. It also shows how difficult decisions can be when it comes to matters of love and loyalty. Abraham is torn, as he cares for both his wife and his son. This moment illustrates the complexities of family dynamics and the lengths we might go to ensure our loved ones are secure. Ultimately, it raises questions about fairness, belonging, and the sacrifices we make for those we love. The story invites us to reflect on our own relationships and the challenges we face in balancing love and responsibility, especially when it comes to our children.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 21:10 to your life
Consider how you handle conflicts in your relationships. Are there situations where you need to make tough choices to protect your loved ones? Reflect on the importance of communication and understanding in resolving family issues, ensuring everyone feels valued and heard. Seek harmony in your relationships, even when faced with difficult decisions. “,”chapter_summary_teaser”: “This chapter reveals the complexities of family dynamics through Sarah's demand to send Hagar and Ishmael away. It highlights the challenges of
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 21:10 mean?
Genesis 21:10 shows Sarah's concern for her son Isaac's future inheritance. She demands that Abraham send away Hagar and Ishmael to protect Isaac's position as the sole heir, highlighting the tensions that can arise in family dynamics.
What is the meaning of 'bondwoman' in Genesis 21:10?
In Genesis 21:10, 'bondwoman' refers to Hagar, who was a servant or slave of Sarah. This term emphasizes her lower status in the household and the conflict between her and Sarah regarding their sons.
How does Genesis 21:10 relate to family dynamics?
Genesis 21:10 illustrates the complexities of family relationships, particularly the conflicts that can arise over inheritance and loyalty. It shows how love for one child can lead to difficult decisions that impact others in the family.
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.