Old Testament
Genesis 21:13
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"I will also make the slave woman's son into a nation, because he is your offspring."
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And also of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed.
What Genesis 21:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God reassures Abraham that even though Ishmael is the son of a slave woman, he will still be blessed and become a great nation. This promise highlights God's ability to work through unexpected circumstances and people. Ishmael, despite his origins, is recognized as part of Abraham's family. This shows that God's plans can include everyone, regardless of their background. It emphasizes the importance of family ties and the potential for greatness in all individuals. God's promise to Ishmael reflects His compassion and desire to bless all of Abraham's descendants. This moment is a reminder that everyone has value and purpose in God's eyes, and that His love extends beyond conventional boundaries. It encourages us to see the potential in others, no matter their situation or status, and to recognize that everyone can contribute to the world in meaningful ways. God's promises are inclusive and transformative, reminding us that we are all part of a larger story.
How to apply Genesis 21:13 to your life
Reflect on how you view others in your life. Are there people you overlook because of their background? Remember that everyone has unique value and potential. Embrace inclusivity and seek to uplift those around you, recognizing their worth in God's eyes. Your actions can make a difference in their lives and yours.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Abraham's story: Hagar and Ishmael Sent Away (Genesis 21:8–21)
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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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Keep studying Genesis 21:13
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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 21:13 mean?
Genesis 21:13 means that God promises to bless Ishmael, the son of Hagar, despite his status as a slave woman's child. This verse highlights God's willingness to include all of Abraham's descendants in His plans, showing that everyone has value.
What is the significance of Ishmael in Genesis 21:13?
Ishmael's significance in Genesis 21:13 lies in God's promise to make him a great nation. This indicates that God's blessings extend beyond traditional boundaries and that even those seen as outsiders can have a significant role in His plans.
What does the term 'slave woman' refer to in Genesis 21:13?
The term 'slave woman' in Genesis 21:13 refers to Hagar, who was Sarah's maidservant and the mother of Ishmael. This designation emphasizes Ishmael's humble beginnings but does not diminish God's promise to him.
How does Genesis 21:13 relate to God's promises?
Genesis 21:13 illustrates that God's promises are inclusive and extend to all of Abraham's descendants, regardless of their background. It shows that God's plans can encompass unexpected individuals and circumstances.
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