Genesis 21:21

Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

وَعَاشَ فِي بَرِّيَّةِ فَارَانَ. وَاخْتَارَتْ لَهُ أُمُّهُ زَوْجَةً مِنْ أرْضِ مِصْرٍ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse tells us that Ishmael, who was banished from his home, lived in the wilderness of Paran. His mother, Hagar, found him a wife from Egypt. It shows how God cared for Ishmael despite the difficult circumstances he faced.

Explained for Children

Imagine you had to move to a new place all alone. That's what happened to Ishmael. He moved to a place called Paran, which was like a big desert. His mom found him a nice girl from Egypt to marry. It's like when your parents help you make a new friend in a new place.

Historical Background

The book of Genesis was written by Moses around 1446-1406 BC. The audience was the Israelites, and it reflects the cultural setting of ancient Near East, where marriages were often arranged for strategic or familial reasons.

Living It Out Today

In today's world, this verse can encourage us to trust God's care and provision even when we face difficulties. For example, if you move to a new city and feel alone, remember that God can bring people into your life who can support you.

Topics

• providence
• marriage
• family
• trust
• God's care
• wanderings

Related Verses

• Genesis 16:12
• Genesis 17:20
• Genesis 25:9
• Galatians 4:28
• Romans 9:15

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Hagar take Ishmael a wife from Egypt?

Hagar, possibly aware of the cultural and familial connections between Egypt and Ishmael's lineage, chose a wife from Egypt to secure a stable life for Ishmael.

What does this verse tell us about God's care for Ishmael?

Despite the hardships Ishmael faced, God provided for him by ensuring he had a place to live and a wife, showing His ongoing care and provision.

How does this story relate to the theme of providence?

The story demonstrates God's providence, showing how He orchestrates events to ensure the well-being and future of His people, even when circumstances seem challenging.

Why is Ishmael's story important in the context of the Bible?

Ishmael's story highlights themes of God's faithfulness and the importance of lineage in Biblical narratives, providing a backdrop for understanding later events and genealogies.