Old Testament
Genesis 21:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then she walked away and sat down at a distance, about as far as an arrow flies, because she said, "I cannot watch the child die." Sitting there across from him, she began to cry aloud.
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And she went, and sat her down over against him a good way off, as it were a bow shot: for she said, Let me not see the death of the child. And she sat over against him, and lift up her voice, and wept.
What Genesis 21:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Hagar, feeling desperate and alone, walked away from her child, Ishmael, to avoid witnessing his suffering. She positioned herself at a distance, roughly the length of an arrow's flight, as her heart broke at the thought of losing him. Overwhelmed by grief, she cried out, expressing her anguish and helplessness. This scene captures a mother's love and the pain of separation. Hagar's choice to distance herself reflects her deep sorrow and the instinct to protect her child from the harsh reality of death. Her tears symbolize the weight of despair, showing how love can lead to profound heartache. In her isolation, she felt the burden of her situation, highlighting the struggles faced by those in desperate circumstances. Hagar's story reminds us of the emotional struggles many endure when faced with loss and the instinct to shield loved ones from pain, even if it means stepping away from them in their time of need. Her cries echo the universal experience of grief and the longing for hope amidst despair.
How to apply Genesis 21:16 to your life
When faced with overwhelming situations, it's natural to feel helpless. Like Hagar, we may need to express our emotions rather than bottle them up. Sharing our struggles with others can lighten our burdens and foster connection. Remember, it's okay to seek support during tough times, as we are not alone in our pain.
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 21:16
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Key themes
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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 21:16 mean?
Genesis 21:16 describes Hagar's deep sorrow as she distances herself from her son Ishmael to avoid witnessing his suffering. It highlights a mother's instinct to protect her child from pain, even if it means stepping away.
What is the meaning of Hagar's actions in Genesis 21:16?
Hagar's actions reflect her desperation and grief as she chooses to sit apart from Ishmael, unable to bear the thought of his death. This moment illustrates the profound emotional struggle of a mother facing loss.
How does Genesis 21:16 relate to themes of hope?
While Genesis 21:16 depicts deep sorrow, it also sets the stage for eventual hope, as Hagar's cries are heard by God. This moment serves as a reminder that even in despair, there can be a glimmer of hope.
What emotions does Hagar express in Genesis 21:16?
In Genesis 21:16, Hagar expresses profound grief and helplessness as she weeps for her son. Her tears symbolize the weight of her despair and the deep love she has for Ishmael.
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