Genesis 21:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God hears Ishmael's cry and an angel speaks to Hagar, assuring her that God has heard.
The Context of Genesis 21:17
Divine intervention arrives when hope is gone.
What Does Genesis 21:17 Mean?
In the moment of deepest darkness, God acts. The angel of God calls to Hagar from heaven, showing that the divine attention spans even the wilderness and even to those outside the covenant family. God's hearing of Ishmael's voice makes clear that the child's cry reaches the throne.
The question 'What aileth thee?' invites Hagar to voice her need, and the assurance 'fear not' begins the reversal. God's hearing does not dismiss the crisis but promises divine action in response to the cry.
Genesis 21:17 in the Original Language
shama' (שָׁמַע), 'heard' — to hear, listen; emphasizes God's responsive attention to distress and prayer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 21:17
What does Genesis 21:17 mean?
God hears Ishmael's cry and an angel speaks to Hagar, assuring her that God has heard.
What is the context of Genesis 21:17?
Divine intervention arrives when hope is gone.