Genesis 16:15 (KJV)

What does Genesis 16:15 mean?

Genesis 16:15 records that Hagar gave birth to a son for Abram, and Abram named the boy Ishmael, as Hagar had been told by an angel. This verse marks the fulfillment of the promise that Hagar would have a son, and it shows Abram accepting and naming the child.

In the story, Hagar was an Egyptian servant to Sarai (Abram’s wife), and she became pregnant by Abram after Sarai’s suggestion. The verse simply states the birth and naming of Ishmael, which is significant because it shows Abram’s recognition of the child as his own. The naming also connects back to the angel’s earlier message to Hagar, giving the moment added meaning in the larger narrative.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 16:15

• יָלַד (yalad, “bare”): This word means “to give birth” or “to bear a child.” The verse uses it twice, emphasizing Hagar’s role as the one who physically brings Ishmael into the world.
• קָרָא (qara, “called”): This word means “to call” or “to name.” Abram’s act of naming Ishmael shows his acknowledgment and acceptance of the child.
• יִשְׁמָעֵאל (Yishma‘el, “Ishmael”): The name means “God hears.” This connects directly to the earlier part of the chapter, where God heard Hagar’s distress and promised her a son.

Why Genesis 16:15 matters

• This verse clarifies that Abram, not Hagar, names the child, showing his acceptance of Ishmael as his son, which is important for understanding family dynamics in the story.
• The naming of Ishmael ties back to the angel’s message to Hagar, reinforcing the idea that God listens and responds to human suffering.
• Genesis 16:15 sets up later events in Genesis, where Ishmael’s role and relationship with Abram’s family become significant in the unfolding story.