Topical Encyclopedia The account of Hagar's oppression by Sarah is a significant narrative found in the Book of Genesis, specifically in chapters 16 and 21. This account provides insight into the complex relationships and social dynamics within the household of Abraham, the patriarch of the Israelite nation.Background Hagar was an Egyptian maidservant to Sarah, the wife of Abraham. Sarah, who was barren at the time, gave Hagar to Abraham as a concubine in hopes of obtaining children through her. This practice, though culturally acceptable in the ancient Near East, set the stage for tension and conflict within the household. Genesis 16:1-6 The initial account of Hagar's oppression begins in Genesis 16. After Hagar conceived, tensions arose between her and Sarah. The text states, "When she saw that she was pregnant, she began to despise her mistress" (Genesis 16:4). Sarah, feeling slighted and dishonored, complained to Abraham, who responded, "Your servant is in your hands... Do with her whatever you think best" (Genesis 16:6). Sarah then mistreated Hagar, causing her to flee into the wilderness. Divine Intervention In the wilderness, the Angel of the LORD appeared to Hagar, offering her comfort and guidance. The angel instructed her to return to Sarah and submit to her authority, promising that her descendants would be too numerous to count. The angel also foretold the birth of her son, Ishmael, saying, "He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone, and everyone's hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers" (Genesis 16:12). Genesis 21:8-21 The narrative continues in Genesis 21, after the birth of Isaac, the son of Sarah and Abraham. During a feast celebrating Isaac's weaning, Sarah observed Ishmael mocking Isaac. Concerned for her son's inheritance, Sarah demanded that Abraham "Drive out this slave woman and her son, for the son of this slave woman will never share in the inheritance with my son Isaac" (Genesis 21:10). Though distressed, Abraham complied after God reassured him that Ishmael would also become a great nation. Hagar's Departure and God's Provision Hagar and Ishmael were sent away with minimal provisions, leading to a desperate situation in the desert. In her distress, Hagar wept, and God heard the boy's cries. The Angel of God called to Hagar from heaven, providing reassurance and revealing a well of water to sustain them. God remained with Ishmael as he grew, and he became an archer in the wilderness of Paran. Theological and Moral Implications The oppression of Hagar by Sarah highlights themes of human frailty, divine sovereignty, and the fulfillment of God's promises. Despite the flawed actions of the individuals involved, God's providential care for Hagar and Ishmael underscores His compassion and faithfulness. The narrative also serves as a reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of taking matters into one's own hands rather than waiting on God's timing. This account is a poignant example of how God works through imperfect people to accomplish His divine purposes, demonstrating His mercy and justice in the midst of human conflict and suffering. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 16:6But Abram said to Sarai, Behold, your maid is in your hand; do to her as it pleases you. And when Sarai dealt hardly with her, she fled from her face. Nave's Topical Index Library The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert An Analysis of Augustin's Writings against the Donatists. Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility Resources How much emphasis should be given to demonic deliverance in the Christian life? | GotQuestions.orgDemons ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Summary of the Book of Exodus - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Oppression: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Oppression of Israelites, by Egyptians Oppression: God is a Refuge From Oppression: God's Help Promised Against Oppression: National, God Judges Oppression: National, Relieved Oppression: Rehoboam Resolves to Oppress the Israelites Oppression: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms |