Genesis 17:21 - But my covenant I establish with Isaac, whom Sarah will bear to you at this set time next year.”

Generated Verse: Genesis 17:21

What does "Genesis 17:21" mean?


This verse, Genesis 17:21, is a pivotal moment in the Abrahamic narrative. Let's break down its meaning:

"But my covenant I establish with Isaac..." This is the core of the verse. God is reaffirming His covenant, His special agreement, but specifying that it will be fulfilled through Isaac, not through Ishmael (Abraham's son with Hagar). The covenant, as established earlier in Genesis, includes promises of numerous descendants, a great nation, and the land of Canaan. By establishing it with Isaac, God is designating Isaac as the heir through whom these promises will pass.

"...whom Sarah will bear to you..." This clarifies Isaac's parentage. Sarah, Abraham's wife, is the one who will give birth to him. This is significant because Sarah was old and previously barren. This makes Isaac's birth a miracle, emphasizing God's power and faithfulness to keep His promises even in seemingly impossible circumstances.

"...at this set time next year." This adds a specific timeframe. God provides a precise timeline for the fulfillment of His promise. This emphasizes the certainty of the event and showcases God's control over the timing of Isaac's birth. This specific timeframe underscores the miraculous nature of the birth and God's ability to act according to His plan.

In essence, this verse means:

God is reiterating His covenant, clarifying that it will be continued through Isaac, the son born to Abraham and Sarah within a year. This birth is a miracle signifying God's power and faithfulness in keeping His promises, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Significance:

Lineage: It establishes the lineage through which the covenant promises will be fulfilled. Isaac becomes the patriarch through whom the Jewish people will descend.
Miracle: It highlights the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth, emphasizing God's power and ability to fulfill His promises.
Faithfulness: It reinforces God's faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham, even after a long period of waiting and uncertainty.
Exclusion of Ishmael: It implicitly excludes Ishmael from being the sole inheritor of the covenant, although Ishmael receives a separate blessing from God.

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