Topical Bible: Sarah: Also Called Sarai: Near of Kin to Abraham

◄ Sarah: Also Called Sarai: Near of Kin to Abraham ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Sarah, originally named Sarai, is a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, known for her role as the wife of Abraham and the mother of Isaac. Her account is primarily found in the Book of Genesis, where she is depicted as a woman of faith and perseverance, despite facing numerous challenges throughout her life.

Name and Lineage

Sarai, meaning "my princess," was later renamed Sarah, meaning "princess" or "noblewoman," by God as part of His covenant with Abraham. This change signified her role in the divine promise that she would be "a mother of nations" (Genesis 17:16). Sarah was the daughter of Terah, making her Abraham's half-sister, as they shared the same father but had different mothers (Genesis 20:12).

Marriage to Abraham

Sarah's marriage to Abraham is a central aspect of her narrative. She accompanied him on his journey from Ur of the Chaldeans to the land of Canaan, following God's call to Abraham to leave his homeland and family (Genesis 12:1-5). Throughout their travels, Sarah demonstrated loyalty and support, even when faced with difficult circumstances, such as their sojourn in Egypt and later in Gerar, where Abraham, fearing for his life, asked her to say she was his sister (Genesis 12:10-20; 20:1-18).

Promise and Fulfillment

A significant theme in Sarah's life is the promise of a son. Despite her advanced age and initial barrenness, God promised Abraham that Sarah would bear a son, Isaac, through whom the covenant would be established (Genesis 17:19). Sarah's initial reaction to this promise was one of disbelief, as she laughed at the prospect of bearing a child in her old age (Genesis 18:12). However, God's promise was fulfilled, and Sarah gave birth to Isaac when she was 90 years old (Genesis 21:1-3).

Faith and Legacy

Sarah is remembered for her faith, as highlighted in the New Testament. The Apostle Peter commends her for her obedience to Abraham, calling her an example for Christian women (1 Peter 3:5-6). Additionally, the author of Hebrews includes Sarah in the "hall of faith," noting that "by faith even Sarah herself, when she was barren and beyond the proper age, was enabled to conceive a child because she considered Him faithful who had promised" (Hebrews 11:11).

Death and Burial

Sarah lived to be 127 years old, and her death is recorded in Genesis 23. Abraham mourned her passing and purchased the cave of Machpelah in Hebron as a burial site, which became the family tomb (Genesis 23:1-20). This act not only honored Sarah but also established a lasting connection to the Promised Land.

Sarah's life and legacy continue to be a source of inspiration and reflection for believers, illustrating themes of faith, obedience, and the fulfillment of God's promises. Her account is integral to understanding the patriarchal narratives and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the lineage of Abraham.

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Genesis 12:10-20
And there was a famine in the land: and Abram went down into Egypt to sojourn there; for the famine was grievous in the land.
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Genesis 20:12
And yet indeed she is my sister; she is the daughter of my father, but not the daughter of my mother; and she became my wife.
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