Topical Encyclopedia Sarah, originally named Sarai, is a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, known as the wife of Abraham and the mother of Isaac. Her account is primarily found in the Book of Genesis. One notable incident involving Sarah is her reaction to the divine promise of a son, which leads to an act of deception.The Promise and the Laughter In Genesis 18, the Lord appears to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre. During this visit, the Lord reiterates His promise that Sarah will bear a son. Sarah, who is listening at the entrance of the tent, laughs to herself, doubting the possibility due to her advanced age and the fact that she is past the age of childbearing. The text states: "So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, 'After I am worn out and my master is old, will I now have this pleasure?'" (Genesis 18:12). The Confrontation and the Lie The Lord, aware of Sarah's laughter and doubt, questions Abraham about it: "Then the LORD said to Abraham, 'Why did Sarah laugh and say, "Can I really bear a child when I am old?" Is anything too difficult for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you—in about a year—and Sarah will have a son.'" (Genesis 18:13-14). Sarah, fearful of being reprimanded, denies her laughter: "But Sarah was afraid, so she denied it and said, 'I did not laugh.' 'No,' replied the LORD, 'but you did laugh.'" (Genesis 18:15). Analysis of Sarah's Lie Sarah's denial of her laughter is a clear instance of lying, motivated by fear and disbelief. Her reaction is human and relatable, reflecting a moment of weakness in faith. Despite her initial doubt and subsequent lie, God's promise remains steadfast, and Sarah eventually gives birth to Isaac, fulfilling the divine promise. Theological Implications Sarah's lie is a reminder of human frailty and the tendency to resort to deception when confronted with fear or doubt. It also highlights God's omniscience and His ability to see beyond human pretense. Despite Sarah's momentary lapse, God's plan is not thwarted, demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness. Sarah's account serves as an example of how God can work through imperfect individuals to fulfill His purposes. Her eventual faith and the birth of Isaac are celebrated in the broader narrative of God's covenant with Abraham and the unfolding of His redemptive plan for humanity. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 18:15Then Sarah denied, saying, I laughed not; for she was afraid. And he said, No; but you did laugh. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Little Sarah Howley. Of the Divine Preservation of Sarah's Chastity in Egypt, when ... There is a Great Question About Lying, which Often Arises in the ... To the Soldiers. And to Holy David Indeed it Might More Justly be Said... Chapter xviii Scenes in the Lives of the Patriarchs. I am Joseph of Arimath??a, who Begged from Pilate the Body of the ... Dying Petitions. God Calling Yet. Resources Should the Hebrew midwives be commended for lying? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God kill Ananias and Sapphira for lying? | GotQuestions.org Is it ever right to lie? | GotQuestions.org Lying: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lying: A Characteristic of the Apostasy Lying: False Prophets Addicted To Lying: False Witnesses Addicted To Lying: Folly of Concealing Hatred By Lying: Leads to Love of Impure Conversation Lying: Often Accompanied by Gross Crimes Lying: Saints: Pray to be Preserved From Lying: Saints: Reject Those Who Practise Lying: Saints: Respect not Those Who Practise Lying: The Devil Excites Men To Lying: The Devil, the Father of Lying: The Evil of Rulers Hearkening To Lying: The Wicked: Addicted To, from Their Infancy Lying: The Wicked: Bring Forth Lying: The Wicked: Give Heed To Lying: The Wicked: Prepare Their Tongues For Lying: They Who are Guilty of, Shall be Cast Into Hell Lying: Vanity of Getting Riches By Related Terms |
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