Old Testament
Genesis 21:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Sarah became pregnant and gave Abraham a son in his old age, at the exact time God had told him.
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For Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him.
What Genesis 21:2 means
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.
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
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Illustrated scene from Abraham's story: Isaac Is Born (Genesis 21:1–7)
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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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Related topics
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 21:2 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.
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