King James Version
What Does Genesis 21:10 Mean?
“Wherefore she said unto Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac.”
Context
8
And the child grew, and was weaned: and Abraham made a great feast the same day that Isaac was weaned.
9
And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, which she had born unto Abraham, mocking.
10
Wherefore she said unto Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac.
11
And the thing was very grievous in Abraham's sight because of his son.
12
And God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight because of the lad, and because of thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **Bondwoman.**—Heb., *ammâh. *This word is rightly translated *handmaid *in Galatians 4:22, &c., Revised Version. It is rendered *maid *in Genesis 30:3, and in the plural, *maidservants, *in Genesis 20:17, where, as we have seen, it means Abimelech’s inferior wives. So also in 1Samuel 25:41, Abigail professes her willingness to descend from the position of an *ammâh *to that of a maidservant in David’s honour. The rendering “bondwoman “unduly depresses Hagar’s condition, and with it that of the Jewish Church in the allegory contained in Galatians 4:22-31.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Genesis 21:10 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 Genesis 21:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge