Genesis 17:19 Meaning and Explanation
“And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his seed after him.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →God confirms Sarah will bear a son named Isaac, and the covenant will pass to him and his descendants.
The Context of Genesis 17:19
God confirms Sarah will bear Isaac and the covenant will continue through him.
What Does Genesis 17:19 Mean?
God's response is direct and final: Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed. The word indeed emphasizes certainty and actuality—this is not conditional or uncertain but assured. The name Isaac (Yitzhak, from the verb to laugh) references Abraham's laughter of amazement. The son's name will forever commemorate the surprising, joy-filled way he comes into being.
The covenant will be established with Isaac, not Ishmael. This designates the line through which God's covenant will continue and through whom the promised blessing will flow. God establishes this covenant as everlasting, securing Isaac and his seed after him in the covenant promise. This answers Abraham's concern for Ishmael indirectly—God has a separate blessing for Ishmael, while confirming that Isaac is the covenant heir.
Genesis 17:19 in the Original Language
Yitzhak (יִצְחָק), 'Isaac' — from the verb to laugh (tzahak), commemorating Abraham's amazement at God's promise.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 17:19
What does Genesis 17:19 mean?
God confirms Sarah will bear a son named Isaac, and the covenant will pass to him and his descendants.
What is the context of Genesis 17:19?
God confirms Sarah will bear Isaac and the covenant will continue through him.