Genesis 21:14 Meaning and Explanation
“And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave it unto Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, and the child, and sent her away: and she departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Abraham sends Hagar and Ishmael away with minimal provisions, and they wander in the wilderness.
The Context of Genesis 21:14
Abraham sends Hagar and Ishmael into the wilderness.
What Does Genesis 21:14 Mean?
Abraham obeys God's word immediately, rising early to act. The supplies—bread and water—are meager for a journey into the wilderness. His obedience honors God's directive, even though it costs him emotionally to let go of his son.
The wilderness of Beersheba was an arid, inhospitable region. The sparse provisions suggest danger; Hagar and her son face real peril. Yet Abraham's trust in God's promise about Ishmael sustains this hard decision.
Genesis 21:14 in the Original Language
shelechah (שׁלחה), 'sent her away' — to release, dismiss; implies a final separation and trust in what God will do next.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 21:14
What does Genesis 21:14 mean?
Abraham sends Hagar and Ishmael away with minimal provisions, and they wander in the wilderness.
What is the context of Genesis 21:14?
Abraham sends Hagar and Ishmael into the wilderness.