Why Sarah Demanded That Hagar and Ishmael Be Sent Away

The narrative of Sarah demanding that Hagar and Ishmael be sent away, recorded in Genesis 21:9–14, is a significant episode in the life of Abraham’s family. It reflects complex human emotions, divine promises, and the unfolding of God’s covenant plan. Understanding why Sarah made this demand requires examining the cultural, familial, and spiritual context of the story.

1. The Immediate Cause: Ishmael’s Behavior

Genesis 21:9 states:
“But Sarah saw that the son whom Hagar the Egyptian had borne to Abraham was mocking.”

Sarah’s demand arose because she perceived Ishmael’s behavior as a threat to Isaac, the child of promise. In the Hebrew text, the word translated as “mocking” can also mean “playing” or “jesting,” but the context suggests a challenge to Isaac’s status within the household. Sarah, fully aware of God’s covenant promise that Isaac would inherit Abraham’s blessing, saw this as a danger that could undermine God’s plan.

2. Covenant Awareness and the Status of Isaac

God had promised Abraham that Isaac, born to Sarah, would be the heir through whom the covenant blessings would continue (Genesis 17:19). Ishmael, Abraham’s firstborn through Hagar, was not the child of this covenant, though God had promised to make him a great nation as well (Genesis 17:20).

Sarah’s insistence on sending them away reflects her concern for the integrity of God’s covenant. She recognized that allowing Ishmael to remain in the household could complicate Isaac’s inheritance and potentially threaten the fulfillment of God’s promise.

3. Cultural and Familial Considerations

In ancient Near Eastern culture, inheritance rights and family hierarchy were paramount. The firstborn typically received a double portion of the inheritance (Deuteronomy 21:17). Since Ishmael was technically Abraham’s firstborn, Sarah may have feared that his presence could create conflict over inheritance and authority within the family.

Her demand was therefore not just emotional but also pragmatic, aiming to prevent long-term familial strife and ensure Isaac’s position as the covenant heir.

4. Emotional and Human Factors

Human emotions also played a role. Sarah had waited decades for a child of her own and had endured ridicule and the social stigma of barrenness. Seeing Hagar’s son seemingly mocking Isaac likely aroused feelings of jealousy, protectiveness, and urgency.

While human emotion influenced her decision, it was not without divine alignment. God validated her concern and instructed Abraham to heed Sarah’s demand, demonstrating that human instincts, when aligned with God’s plan, can serve a divine purpose.

5. Divine Assurance and Care for Ishmael

Although Sarah demanded that Hagar and Ishmael be sent away, God reassured Abraham:
“Do not be distressed about the boy and your slave woman. Listen to whatever Sarah tells you, because it is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned. I will make the son of the slave into a nation also, because he is your offspring.” (Genesis 21:12–13)

This shows that God’s plan balances justice, covenantal integrity, and mercy. Isaac would be the heir of the covenant, but Ishmael would also receive God’s blessing and become the father of a great nation (Genesis 21:18). Sarah’s demand therefore aligned with God’s plan without undermining His care for Ishmael.

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Conclusion

Sarah demanded that Hagar and Ishmael be sent away for several interrelated reasons:

1. Protecting Isaac, the child of God’s covenant.

2. Maintaining the integrity of God’s promises and ensuring the covenant heir’s security.

3. Preventing potential familial conflict over inheritance and authority.

4. Responding to emotional and human concerns, including jealousy and maternal protectiveness.

Ultimately, Sarah’s action highlights the interaction of human responsibility and divine providence. While motivated by personal concern, her decision fit within God’s sovereign plan. It illustrates that God can work through human decisions—shaped by faith, awareness of His promises, and practical judgment—to bring about His purposes and ensure the fulfillment of His covenantal promises.

What role did Hagar play in Abraham’s family story?