Old Testament
Genesis 21:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Abraham got up early the next morning, took some bread and a container of water, and placed them on Hagar's shoulder. He gave her the child and sent her on her way. She left and roamed through the wilderness of Beersheba.
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And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave it unto Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, and the child, and sent her away: and she departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba.
What Genesis 21:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Abraham faces a difficult decision. He wakes up early, knowing he must send Hagar and his son away. He prepares some bread and water, showing care for their journey. Hagar carries the supplies and the child, feeling the weight of uncertainty. As she leaves, she steps into the wilderness of Beersheba, a place of desolation and challenge. This act reflects Abraham's struggle between his responsibilities and the consequences of his earlier choices. Hagar's journey symbolizes the hardships faced by those cast aside, yet it also hints at resilience and survival. The wilderness represents both a physical and emotional landscape, where hope and despair intertwine. Abraham's actions remind us that sometimes, love means making tough choices, even when it hurts. Hagar's story continues beyond this moment, illustrating the strength found in adversity and the unexpected paths life can take us on. Her journey is a testament to the human spirit's ability to endure.
How to apply Genesis 21:14 to your life
When faced with tough choices, consider the impact on those involved. Like Abraham, we may need to make sacrifices for the greater good. Remember that even in difficult times, there is potential for growth and new beginnings. Embrace the journey ahead with courage and hope. Your resilience can inspire others too, just as Hagar's story does today.
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 21:14
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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 21:14 mean?
Genesis 21:14 describes Abraham's difficult decision to send Hagar and his son away, highlighting themes of parental responsibility and sacrifice. It illustrates the emotional weight of his choice and the challenges Hagar faces as she enters the wilderness.
What is the significance of Hagar in Genesis 21:14?
Hagar represents resilience and survival in Genesis 21:14. Her journey into the wilderness symbolizes the struggles faced by those marginalized and cast aside, yet it also reflects the strength of the human spirit in overcoming adversity.
What does the wilderness symbolize in Genesis 21:14?
In Genesis 21:14, the wilderness symbolizes a place of desolation and challenge. It represents both the physical hardships Hagar faces and the emotional turmoil of being sent away, intertwining hope and despair.
What key themes are present in Genesis 21:14?
Key themes in Genesis 21:14 include difficult decisions, parental responsibility, resilience, and the contrast between hope and adversity. These themes reflect the complexities of relationships and the challenges of life.
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