Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 21:12 mean when God tells Avraham to listen to Sarah?
A: In Genesis 21:12, God instructs Avraham to listen to Sarah's request regarding Yishmael and Hagar. According to Rashi, this teaches that Sarah's prophetic insight was greater than Avraham's in this matter, as she foresaw that Yishmael's influence could negatively impact Yitzchak's spiritual growth. The verse emphasizes the importance of heeding righteous counsel, especially from one's spouse.
Q: Why does God say 'in Yitzchak shall your seed be called' in Genesis 21:12?
A: God's statement 'in Yitzchak shall your seed be called' establishes that the covenant and divine promise will continue specifically through Yitzchak, not Yishmael. The Ramban explains that this affirms Yitzchak as the rightful heir to Avraham's spiritual legacy, as he was born from Sarah in fulfillment of God's promise (Genesis 17:19). This verse is foundational in Jewish tradition as it identifies the lineage through which the Jewish people and Torah values would descend.
Q: What lesson can we learn from God telling Avraham to listen to Sarah?
A: The Talmud (Bava Metzia 59a) derives from this verse that Sarah's intuition and judgment were Divinely inspired in this instance. It teaches us to recognize and respect the wisdom of righteous individuals, particularly in family matters. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 53:8) also highlights how Sarah's concern for Yitzchak's spiritual purity was validated by God, showing parents must prioritize their children's moral development.
Q: How does Genesis 21:12 apply to family relationships today?
A: This verse demonstrates Torah principles for healthy family dynamics: 1) Spouses should value each other's wisdom (as Avraham respected Sarah's insight), 2) Parents must make difficult decisions to ensure their children's proper upbringing (as Sarah insisted on separating Yishmael's negative influence), and 3) Divine guidance often comes through righteous partners, as God affirmed Sarah's perspective. The Sforno notes this shows domestic harmony requires aligning with Torah values above personal feelings.
Q: Why was it so hard for Avraham to send away Hagar and Yishmael?
A: Avraham found it difficult because he naturally loved Yishmael as his son (Genesis 17:18). The Midrash (Pirkei D'Rabbi Eliezer 30) describes how Avraham had previously tried to raise Yishmael properly. However, as Rashi explains on our verse, God confirmed that Yishmael's behavior posed a danger to Yitzchak's spiritual future. This teaches that true compassion sometimes requires making painful choices to protect holiness, as later seen when Avraham was willing to sacrifice Yitzchak at the Akeidah.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bereshit 21:12) occurs after Sarah insists that Avraham send away Hagar and Yishmael, fearing that Yishmael's influence could negatively impact Yitzchak's spiritual development. Avraham is distressed by this request, as Yishmael is his son, but Hashem instructs him to listen to Sarah.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that the phrase "כִּי בְיִצְחָק יִקָּרֵא לְךָ זָרַע" ("for in Yitzchak shall your seed be called") means that only through Yitzchak will Avraham's true spiritual legacy continue. Rashi emphasizes that while Yishmael is also Avraham's biological son, the covenant and divine promise will be fulfilled exclusively through Yitzchak.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 10:7) discusses this verse in the context of the uniqueness of the Jewish people. He explains that the descendants of Yitzchak are set apart for their role in upholding the Torah and transmitting divine truth, whereas the descendants of Yishmael, though blessed in their own right, do not share this covenantal mission.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Gemara (Sanhedrin 59b) derives from this verse that a person must honor their spouse's concerns when they align with divine will. Avraham's obedience to Sarah, as directed by Hashem, sets a precedent for prioritizing spiritual clarity over personal emotions.
Ibn Ezra's Commentary
Ibn Ezra highlights the phrase "שְׁמַע בְּקֹלָהּ" ("hearken to her voice"), noting that Sarah's judgment was divinely endorsed. He explains that this teaches the importance of discerning when a spouse's intuition reflects higher wisdom, especially in matters affecting the family's spiritual future.