King James Version

What Does Galatians 4:23 Mean?

“But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.”

Context

Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?

For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.

But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.

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

For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. answereth to: or, is in the same rank with

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(23) **But.**—Both were alike in being children of Abraham; they were unlike in that one was born naturally, the other by divine instrumentality. **Was born.**—Strictly, *is born*—*i.e.,* is stated to have been born, was born *as we still read.* **After the flesh**—*i.e.,* in the regular course of nature. **By promise.**—The birth of Isaac is regarded as due to the direct agency of the promise, The promise itself is conceived of as possessing a creative power. The birth of Isaac was the result of a miraculous intervention. (See Genesis 18:10.)

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 4:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.