King James Version
What Does Galatians 4:22 Mean?
“For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.”
Context
20
I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you. I stand: or, I am perplexed for you I stand: or, I am perplexed for you
21
Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?
22
For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.
23
But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.
24
Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. covenants: or, testaments Sinai: Gr. Sina
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(22) **For.**—This particle would naturally not be expressed in English. It was a reason for the question which had been asked just before: “For the Law *does* supply a case in point.”
**The one by a bondmaid.**—Hagar, it seems from Genesis 16:1, was an Egyptian. The word for “bondmaid” was not confined to this sense in earlier Greek, but was used for any young girl.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Galatians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Galatians 4:22 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Galatians 4:22
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge