Genesis Chapter 21 — The Birth of Isaac and the Covenant at Beersheba
In this chapter, Sarah gives birth to Isaac in her old age, Hagar and Ishmael are sent into the wilderness where God preserves them, and Abraham settles a treaty with Abimelech.
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Notable Verses
Genesis 21:1
“The LORD visited Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did to Sarah as he had spoken.”
This verse emphasizes God's faithfulness in fulfilling His specific promises at the appointed time.
Genesis 21:6
“Sarah said, “God has made me laugh. Everyone who hears will laugh with me.””
This reflects the meaning of Isaac's name ('he laughs') and the joy surrounding his miraculous birth.
Genesis 21:33
“Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there he called on the name of the LORD, the Everlasting God.”
It shows Abraham's continued devotion and his recognition of God's eternal nature after establishing peace in the land.
Chapter Summary
Genesis 21 documents the fulfillment of God's long-standing promise to Abraham and Sarah as they welcome their son, Isaac, in their old age. Abraham follows God's command by circumcising Isaac on the eighth day. As the child grows, tensions arise between Sarah and Hagar, leading to the expulsion of Hagar and her son Ishmael into the wilderness of Beersheba. Though Hagar fears for their lives when their water runs out, God hears the boy's voice and provides a well of water, reaffirming His promise to make Ishmael a great nation. The latter half of the chapter details a diplomatic encounter between Abraham and King Abimelech. After resolving a dispute over a water well, the two men establish a covenant of peace. Abraham names the location Beersheba, meaning the 'well of the oath' or 'well of seven,' and worships the Lord as the Everlasting God.
Frequently Asked Questions
The name Isaac means 'he laughs.' This name is significant because both Abraham and Sarah laughed when God first promised them a son in their old age, and Sarah laughed again with joy when he was finally born.
Sarah saw Ishmael mocking Isaac during a celebration and insisted that Ishmael should not share in the inheritance with her son. Although Abraham was distressed, God told him to listen to Sarah, promising to protect and bless Ishmael as Abraham's offspring.
Beersheba was the site of a covenant between Abraham and Abimelech. It means 'well of the oath' or 'well of seven,' named after the seven ewe lambs Abraham gave to Abimelech as a witness that he had dug the well.
Study Note
The title 'El Olam' used in verse 33 is the first time in scripture God is specifically referred to as the Everlasting God.
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