Genesis 16:5 Meaning and Explanation
“And Sarai said unto Abram, My wrong be upon thee: I have given my maid into thy bosom; and when she saw that she had conceived, I was despised in her eyes: the LORD judge between me and thee.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Sarai blames Abram, saying his actions have brought shame upon her.
The Context of Genesis 16:5
Sarai expresses her anger and shame to Abram.
What Does Genesis 16:5 Mean?
Sarai's emotions turned from hope to anger and a sense of betrayal. She blamed Abram for accepting her own plan, as though his compliance had caused the humiliation she now felt. Her words reveal deep pain: the very arrangement designed to help her had instead resulted in her being despised by her own servant.
Sarai invoked the Lord as judge, asking Him to settle the matter between herself and Abram. Her appeal to divine judgment suggests her powerlessness in this situation and her expectation that God would vindicate her position. The plan had backfired, creating conflict instead of bringing the family closer together.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 16:5
What does Genesis 16:5 mean?
Sarai blames Abram, saying his actions have brought shame upon her.
What is the context of Genesis 16:5?
Sarai expresses her anger and shame to Abram.