Old Testament
Genesis 21:12
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, God reassures Abraham, who is feeling anxious about his son Ishmael and the situation with Hagar, the slave woman.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
But God told Abraham, "Do not be troubled over the boy or your slave woman. Listen to everything Sarah tells you, because your descendants will be traced through Isaac."
And God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight because of the lad, and because of thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, God reassures Abraham, who is feeling anxious about his son Ishmael and the situation with Hagar, the slave woman. God emphasizes the importance of listening to Sarah, Abraham's wife, because she has insight into their family dynamics. God makes it clear that Isaac is the child through whom Abraham's lineage will continue. This is a pivotal moment, as it highlights God's plan for Abraham's descendants. It shows that even in difficult situations, God has a purpose and direction for our lives. Abraham is reminded to trust God's guidance and the decisions made by those close to him. This reassurance helps Abraham to focus on the future and the promise that God has made to him. It’s a reminder that sometimes we need to let go of our worries and trust in a greater plan, even when it’s hard to see the way forward. God’s words encourage us to listen to wise counsel and to have faith in the unfolding of our lives according to His will. Trusting God can lead us to peace amidst uncertainty.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 21:12 to your life
When faced with tough decisions or family conflicts, remember to seek guidance from trusted sources. Listening to those who care about you can provide clarity. Trust that there is a greater plan at work, even if it’s not immediately visible. Let go of your worries and embrace faith in the journey ahead. You are not alone in your struggles; support is available if you seek it out. “Trust in the process” can be a powerful
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 21:12 mean?
Genesis 21:12 conveys God's reassurance to Abraham regarding his son Ishmael and the situation with Hagar. God instructs Abraham to listen to Sarah, emphasizing that Isaac is the child through whom Abraham's lineage will continue.
What is the significance of Isaac in Genesis 21:12?
In Genesis 21:12, Isaac is highlighted as the child through whom Abraham's descendants will be traced. This establishes Isaac's importance in God's plan for Abraham's lineage and the fulfillment of His promises.
Why does God tell Abraham to listen to Sarah in Genesis 21:12?
God tells Abraham to listen to Sarah in Genesis 21:12 because she has insight into their family dynamics and the situation at hand. Her perspective is crucial for making decisions that align with God's plan.
What does God mean by 'do not be troubled' in Genesis 21:12?
When God says 'do not be troubled' in Genesis 21:12, He is reassuring Abraham to let go of his worries about Ishmael and Hagar. This encourages Abraham to trust in God's guidance and the future He has planned.
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.
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