Genesis 21:13 Meaning and Explanation
“And also of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God promises that Ishmael, though not the covenant heir, will become a great nation.
The Context of Genesis 21:13
God promises blessing and nationhood to Ishmael.
What Does Genesis 21:13 Mean?
Even as God clarifies that Isaac carries the covenant promise, He does not abandon Ishmael. The promise to make Ishmael a great nation shows that God's blessing extends to him, though his line does not inherit the covenantal privilege. God acknowledges him as Abraham's seed.
Ishmael's future as a nation reflects God's generosity and His remembrance of all that Abraham has fathered. This promise tempers the harshness of separation and demonstrates that God's providence extends beyond the chosen covenant line.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 21:13
What does Genesis 21:13 mean?
God promises that Ishmael, though not the covenant heir, will become a great nation.
What is the context of Genesis 21:13?
God promises blessing and nationhood to Ishmael.