Genesis 16:4

And he slept with Hagar, and she conceived. But when Hagar realized that she was pregnant, she began to despise her mistress.

Study Bible

And he slept with Hagar
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of Abram and Sarai. The Hebrew verb used here, "בּוֹא" (bo), often translated as "came in" or "went in," is a euphemism for sexual relations. This act was not merely a personal decision but was deeply rooted in the cultural and legal practices of the time. In the ancient Near East, it was customary for a barren wife to offer her maidservant to her husband to bear children on her behalf. This practice, though culturally accepted, was not aligned with God's original design for marriage as a union between one man and one woman. The decision to sleep with Hagar reflects a lack of faith in God's promise to Abram and Sarai, demonstrating the human tendency to take matters into one's own hands rather than waiting on divine timing.

and she conceived
The conception of Hagar is significant as it sets the stage for future conflict. The Hebrew word "הָרָה" (harah) indicates that Hagar became pregnant, which was seen as a sign of blessing and favor in the ancient world. However, this conception was not the fulfillment of God's promise to Abram, which was to come through Sarai. This moment highlights the complexity of human actions and divine plans, reminding believers that God's promises are fulfilled in His way and timing, not through human manipulation or impatience.

And when she saw that she was pregnant
Hagar's awareness of her pregnancy introduces a shift in her status and perception. In the ancient context, a woman's ability to bear children, especially a male heir, elevated her status and security within the household. Hagar's realization of her pregnancy would have been a moment of personal triumph, yet it also sowed seeds of discord. This awareness is a turning point that leads to a change in her relationship with Sarai, illustrating how blessings can become sources of strife when not aligned with God's will.

she began to despise her mistress
The Hebrew word "קָלַל" (qalal) translated as "despise" or "contempt" indicates a deep-seated disdain and disrespect. Hagar's change in attitude towards Sarai reflects the social dynamics and tensions that arise from the situation. In the patriarchal society of the time, Sarai's barrenness and Hagar's newfound status as a mother-to-be created a power imbalance. Hagar's contempt is a natural, albeit sinful, response to her elevated position. This phrase serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of stepping outside of God's plan, as it leads to relational discord and personal pride. It reminds believers of the importance of humility and trust in God's promises, even when circumstances seem to suggest otherwise.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abram
The patriarch chosen by God to be the father of many nations. At this point in Genesis, he is still waiting for the fulfillment of God's promise of a son.

2. Sarai
Abram's wife, who is barren and has not yet borne children. She suggests that Abram have a child with her maidservant, Hagar, to build a family.

3. Hagar
Sarai's Egyptian maidservant. She becomes pregnant by Abram and her attitude towards Sarai changes, leading to tension.

4. Canaan
The land where Abram and Sarai are dwelling, which God has promised to Abram's descendants.

5. Conception and Conflict
The event of Hagar conceiving a child with Abram leads to a shift in relationships and introduces conflict between Hagar and Sarai.

Teaching Points

Consequences of Impatience
Sarai's decision to have Abram conceive a child with Hagar reflects human impatience and lack of trust in God's timing. This teaches us the importance of waiting on God's promises.

Pride and Humility
Hagar's change in attitude towards Sarai after conceiving shows how pride can lead to conflict. Believers are called to maintain humility, regardless of their circumstances.

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Despite human errors and conflicts, God's plans are not thwarted. This account reminds us that God can work through our mistakes to fulfill His purposes.

Interpersonal Relationships
The tension between Hagar and Sarai highlights the need for grace and understanding in relationships, especially when circumstances change.

Faith and Obedience
Abram and Sarai's actions serve as a cautionary tale about the importance of faith and obedience to God's word, rather than taking matters into our own hands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Hagar and Sarai challenge us to trust in God's timing rather than our own plans?

2. In what ways can pride affect our relationships with others, and how can we cultivate humility in our daily interactions?

3. How does the account of Hagar and Sarai illustrate the consequences of acting outside of God's will? Can you think of other biblical examples where this occurs?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced a situation similar to Sarai's impatience. How did you handle it, and what did you learn from that experience?

5. How can the account of Hagar and Sarai encourage us to seek reconciliation and peace in our relationships, even when there is tension or conflict?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:1-3
God's promise to Abram about making him a great nation, which sets the context for Sarai's desperation and the subsequent events with Hagar.

Galatians 4:22-31
Paul uses the account of Hagar and Sarai to illustrate the difference between living under the law and living by the promise, highlighting the spiritual implications of this account.

1 Samuel 1:6-7
The account of Hannah and Peninnah, where Peninnah provokes Hannah due to her barrenness, parallels the tension between Hagar and Sarai.