Genesis 21:10

and she said to Abraham, "Expel the slave woman and her son, for the slave woman's son will never share in the inheritance with my son Isaac!"

Study Bible

so she said to Abraham
This phrase introduces Sarah's direct speech to Abraham, highlighting her role and influence in the family dynamics. In the Hebrew context, Sarah's voice here is significant, as it reflects the cultural and familial authority she holds. Her words are not merely a suggestion but a decisive command, indicating her concern for Isaac's inheritance and future. Historically, the patriarchal society often placed women in secondary roles, yet Sarah's assertiveness here underscores her pivotal role in the unfolding of God's covenant promises.

Drive out
The Hebrew word used here is "גרש" (garash), which means to cast out or expel. This term conveys a forceful action, emphasizing the severity of Sarah's demand. In the ancient Near Eastern context, expulsion from a household was a serious matter, often resulting in loss of protection and provision. Sarah's insistence on driving out Hagar and Ishmael reflects her protective instinct for Isaac's inheritance and the fulfillment of God's promise through him.

this slave woman
The term "slave woman" refers to Hagar, emphasizing her status within the household. In Hebrew, "אמה" (amah) denotes a female servant or maidservant. This designation highlights the social hierarchy and the distinction between Sarah, the free woman, and Hagar, the bondwoman. Theologically, this distinction is later used by the Apostle Paul in Galatians 4:22-31 to illustrate the difference between the old covenant of the law and the new covenant of grace.

and her son
This phrase refers to Ishmael, Hagar's son with Abraham. Ishmael's position as Abraham's firstborn son complicates the family dynamics, as he is a legitimate heir by birth. However, Sarah's insistence on his expulsion underscores the divine selection of Isaac as the child of promise. This tension between Ishmael and Isaac prefigures the ongoing conflict between their descendants, as seen throughout biblical history.

for the son of this slave woman
Reiterating Ishmael's status as the son of a slave woman, this phrase underscores the perceived threat to Isaac's inheritance. The repetition of Hagar's status serves to justify Sarah's demand, as it emphasizes the social and covenantal distinctions between Ishmael and Isaac. This distinction is crucial in understanding the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through Isaac's lineage.

shall not be a co-heir
The concept of co-heirship is central to the inheritance rights in ancient cultures. In Hebrew, the term "ירש" (yarash) means to inherit or possess. Sarah's declaration that Ishmael shall not share in the inheritance with Isaac reflects her understanding of God's promise to Abraham regarding Isaac's unique role. This exclusion of Ishmael from co-heirship is a pivotal moment in the narrative, reinforcing the divine election of Isaac.

with my son Isaac
The phrase "my son Isaac" highlights Sarah's maternal bond and her protective stance over Isaac's future. Isaac, whose name means "laughter," is the child of promise, born to Sarah in her old age as a fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham. This emphasis on Isaac as "my son" underscores the personal and covenantal significance of his role in God's redemptive plan, setting the stage for the continuation of the Abrahamic covenant through his lineage.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sarah
The wife of Abraham and mother of Isaac. She is the one who demands that Hagar and Ishmael be sent away.

2. Abraham
The patriarch of the Israelites, husband of Sarah, and father of both Isaac and Ishmael.

3. Hagar
An Egyptian slave woman who bore Abraham's first son, Ishmael.

4. Ishmael
The son of Abraham and Hagar, considered the ancestor of many Arab peoples.

5. Isaac
The son of Abraham and Sarah, through whom God's covenant would be established.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God's Promise
God's promises are fulfilled according to His will and timing, not human plans. Sarah's insistence on sending Hagar and Ishmael away underscores the importance of God's covenant with Isaac.

Faith and Obedience
Abraham's compliance with Sarah's demand, after God reassures him, demonstrates faith and obedience to God's direction, even when it involves difficult decisions.

The Consequences of Human Actions
The tension between Sarah and Hagar is a result of earlier decisions made by Abraham and Sarah. This highlights the long-term impact of our choices and the importance of seeking God's guidance.

God's Care for All
Despite the difficult circumstances, God provides for Hagar and Ishmael, showing His compassion and care for all people, even those outside the primary covenant line.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Sarah, Hagar, and Ishmael illustrate the consequences of taking matters into our own hands rather than waiting on God's timing?

2. In what ways does the New Testament use the account of Sarah and Hagar to explain the difference between living under the law and living under grace?

3. How can we apply Abraham's example of obedience in difficult situations to our own lives today?

4. What does God's provision for Hagar and Ishmael teach us about His character and care for those who are marginalized or outside the main account?

5. How can understanding the cultural and historical context of Genesis 21:10 enhance our interpretation and application of this passage in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 16
Provides background on Hagar and Ishmael's relationship with Sarah and Abraham, including Hagar's initial flight and God's promise to her.

Galatians 4:21-31
Paul uses the account of Sarah and Hagar allegorically to contrast the old covenant of the law with the new covenant of grace.

Romans 9:6-9
Discusses the concept of the children of the promise, highlighting Isaac as the child through whom God's promise is fulfilled.

Hebrews 11:11-12
Celebrates Sarah's faith in God's promise, despite her initial doubt and the circumstances surrounding Isaac's birth.