Genesis 21:14 (KJV)

What does Genesis 21:14 mean?

Genesis 21:14 describes Abraham sending Hagar and her son Ishmael away early in the morning, giving them bread and a bottle of water, and Hagar wandering with the child in the wilderness of Beersheba. The verse shows Abraham’s obedience to God’s instruction and the difficult separation of Hagar and Ishmael from Abraham’s household.

In this scene, Abraham acts after God tells him to listen to Sarah and send Hagar and Ishmael away. The verse highlights the practical details: Abraham rises early, prepares simple provisions (bread and water), and places them on Hagar’s shoulder along with her child. Hagar then leaves and wanders in the wilderness, setting up the next part of their story.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 21:14

• The word for "wandered" (תָּעָה, ta’ah) often means to stray or lose one’s way, suggesting that Hagar was not just traveling but was lost or uncertain about where to go in the wilderness.
• The term for "wilderness" (מִדְבָּר, midbar) refers to a dry, uncultivated land, emphasizing the harsh and dangerous environment Hagar and Ishmael faced after leaving Abraham’s home.
• "Bottle" (חֵמֶת, chemet) here means a skin container for water, not a modern bottle, indicating the limited and fragile nature of their supplies.

Why Genesis 21:14 matters

• Genesis 21:14 clarifies that Abraham provided only basic necessities, showing both care and the limits of what he could do for Hagar and Ishmael as they left.
• The verse connects to the larger story of God’s promise to Abraham about Ishmael, setting up how God will care for Hagar and her son even outside Abraham’s household.
• The detail that Hagar "wandered" in the wilderness highlights her vulnerability and the uncertainty of her situation, which is important for understanding the challenges she and Ishmael faced.