Genesis 16:13

So Hagar gave this name to the LORD who had spoken to her: "You are the God who sees me," for she said, "Here I have seen the One who sees me!"

Study Bible

So Hagar gave this name
In the ancient Near Eastern context, naming was a significant act that often revealed something about the character or nature of the person or deity being named. Hagar, an Egyptian servant, finds herself in a divine encounter, and her response is to name God. This act signifies her recognition and acknowledgment of God's personal involvement in her life. The Hebrew root for "gave" (נָתַן, natan) implies a deliberate and meaningful action, indicating that Hagar's naming is a profound moment of revelation and personal transformation.

to the LORD
The term "LORD" in the Hebrew text is "YHWH" (יהוה), the sacred and personal name of God revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14. This name signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature and His covenantal faithfulness. Hagar, a foreigner and a servant, is granted the privilege of addressing God by this personal name, highlighting the inclusivity of God's grace and His willingness to engage with all people, regardless of their status or background.

who had spoken to her
The phrase emphasizes the personal and direct communication between God and Hagar. In the Hebrew tradition, God speaking to an individual is a profound event, often reserved for patriarchs and prophets. This encounter elevates Hagar's status and underscores the importance of her story. The Hebrew verb "spoke" (דָּבַר, dabar) conveys not just the act of speaking but also the impartation of divine will and purpose.

'You are the God who sees me,'
Hagar's declaration, "You are the God who sees me," is a profound theological statement. The Hebrew word for "sees" (רֹאִי, ro'i) implies not just visual sight but also understanding, care, and concern. This name, "El Roi," reveals God's omniscience and His intimate awareness of individual lives. It assures believers that God is not distant or indifferent but is actively involved and attentive to their circumstances.

for she said
This phrase introduces Hagar's explanation and reflection on her experience. It indicates a moment of introspection and realization. The Hebrew conjunction "for" (כִּי, ki) often introduces a reason or explanation, suggesting that Hagar's naming of God is based on her personal encounter and understanding of His nature.

'Here I have seen the One who sees me.'
Hagar's statement is both a declaration of her experience and a theological insight. The repetition of the concept of seeing underscores the mutual recognition between Hagar and God. The Hebrew word for "seen" (רָאָה, ra'ah) is the same root used earlier, reinforcing the theme of divine perception and human acknowledgment. This encounter transforms Hagar's understanding of God, providing her with assurance and hope in her difficult circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hagar
An Egyptian maidservant of Sarai (later Sarah), who becomes the mother of Ishmael. She is a central figure in this passage as she encounters God in the wilderness.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Abraham, who reveals Himself to Hagar in her distress, demonstrating His omniscience and care.

3. The Wilderness
The setting where Hagar encounters God. It symbolizes a place of desolation but also of divine revelation and encounter.

4. The Angel of the LORD
A manifestation of God who speaks to Hagar, providing guidance and promises about her son Ishmael.

5. Ishmael
The son of Abram (later Abraham) and Hagar, whose name means "God hears," reflecting God's response to Hagar's affliction.

Teaching Points

God's Omniscience and Care
God sees and knows every detail of our lives, just as He saw Hagar in her distress. We can trust that He is aware of our struggles and needs.

Divine Encounters in Desolation
Often, it is in our wilderness experiences—times of loneliness or hardship—that we encounter God most profoundly. We should remain open to His presence and guidance during these times.

Naming God in Our Lives
Like Hagar, we can name and recognize God's attributes based on our personal experiences with Him. Reflect on how God has revealed Himself to you and acknowledge His work in your life.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
God's promise to Hagar about Ishmael shows His faithfulness. We can rely on God's promises in Scripture, knowing He is faithful to fulfill them.

Seeing Others as God Sees Them
Just as God saw Hagar, we are called to see and care for those who are marginalized or in distress, reflecting God's compassion and love.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Hagar in Genesis 16:13 challenge or encourage you in your current life situation?

2. In what ways can you relate to Hagar's experience of feeling seen by God? How does this impact your faith?

3. How can the understanding that God sees and knows you influence your daily decisions and interactions with others?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt like you were in a "wilderness." How did you experience God's presence or guidance during that time?

5. How can you apply the lesson of seeing others as God sees them in your community or church? What practical steps can you take to show compassion and care?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 21:17-19
This passage recounts another instance where God hears Hagar's distress and provides for her and Ishmael, reinforcing God's attentive care.

Psalm 139:1-12
This psalm speaks of God's omnipresence and omniscience, echoing the theme of God seeing and knowing us intimately.

Exodus 3:7
God tells Moses that He has seen the affliction of His people in Egypt, paralleling His awareness of Hagar's plight.

Matthew 6:8
Jesus teaches that God knows our needs before we ask, aligning with the idea of God seeing and understanding our circumstances.