Old Testament
Genesis 21:2
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, Sarah, who had long been unable to have children, finally became pregnant.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Sarah became pregnant and gave Abraham a son in his old age, at the exact time God had told him.
For Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Sarah, who had long been unable to have children, finally became pregnant. This was a significant event because it fulfilled a promise God had made to Abraham. Despite their old age, God’s timing was perfect. Sarah gave birth to a son, which brought immense joy to both her and Abraham. This child was not just any child; he was the beginning of a new chapter in their lives and the fulfillment of God’s plan. The birth of Isaac symbolized hope and the realization of dreams that seemed impossible. It reminds us that even when circumstances appear bleak, God can bring about miraculous changes at just the right time. Trusting in God’s timing can lead to unexpected blessings and joy in our lives, just as it did for Sarah and Abraham. Their story encourages us to hold on to hope and believe in the promises we receive, no matter how unlikely they may seem. God’s faithfulness is evident in their journey, showing that He can turn our waiting into wonderful outcomes. Explore related gods.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 21:2 to your life
When faced with challenges or delays in our lives, we can take comfort in Sarah and Abraham's story. It teaches us to trust in God's timing and to remain hopeful. Remember that what seems impossible can become possible with faith. Keep believing in your dreams and God's promises, even when it feels like time is running out. Miracles can happen when we least expect them, just as they did for them. “Trust in God’s timing.”
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 21:2 mean?
Genesis 21:2 describes the miraculous birth of Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, highlighting God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promise despite their old age. It emphasizes that God's timing is perfect and that He can bring about significant changes in our lives.
What is the significance of Sarah's pregnancy in Genesis 21:2?
Sarah's pregnancy in Genesis 21:2 is significant because it represents the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would have a son. This event symbolizes hope and the realization of dreams that seemed impossible, showcasing God's ability to work miracles.
What does 'at the exact time God had told him' mean in Genesis 21:2?
The phrase 'at the exact time God had told him' in Genesis 21:2 indicates that God's timing is precise and intentional. It reassures believers that God has a plan and that His promises will be fulfilled according to His schedule, not ours.
How does Genesis 21:2 relate to trusting God's timing?
Genesis 21:2 teaches us to trust in God's timing by showing that even when circumstances seem impossible, God can bring about His promises at the right moment. It encourages believers to remain hopeful and patient as they wait for their own dreams to be realized.

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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