Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the meaning of Genesis 21:7?
A: Genesis 21:7 expresses Sarah's amazement at giving birth to Isaac in her old age. She marvels that no one would have believed Avraham would have children through her, especially since she was previously barren and advanced in years. This verse highlights the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth, fulfilling God's promise to Avraham (Rashi on Genesis 21:7).
Q: Why is Sarah's statement in Genesis 21:7 significant?
A: Sarah's words emphasize the divine miracle of Isaac's birth, showing that it was beyond natural expectations. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 53:2) explains that Sarah even nursed other infants to prove that she truly gave birth, silencing skeptics. This miracle reinforced God's covenant with Avraham and demonstrated His power.
Q: What can we learn from Sarah's reaction in this verse?
A: Sarah's reaction teaches us to recognize and acknowledge God's miracles in our lives. Even when something seems impossible (like childbirth at an old age), God can make it happen. The Rambam (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 8:1) discusses how miracles affirm divine providence, and Sarah's words remind us to express gratitude for such wonders.
Q: How does Genesis 21:7 relate to Jewish tradition today?
A: This verse is often referenced in Jewish tradition as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of trusting in His promises. The Talmud (Berachot 10a) teaches that Sarah's joy in this verse reflects the ultimate joy of the Jewish people when redemption comes. It encourages us to remain hopeful even in seemingly impossible situations.
Q: Why does Sarah mention nursing in Genesis 21:7?
A: Sarah mentions nursing to emphasize the full miracle—not only did she conceive in old age, but she was also able to nourish her child naturally. Rashi explains that this was an additional wonder, as elderly women typically lack milk. This detail underscores that Isaac's birth was entirely supernatural, a sign of God's direct involvement.
Sarah's Astonishment at the Miracle
The verse (Bereishit 21:7) records Sarah's exclamation of wonder at the miraculous birth of Yitzchak. Rashi explains that Sarah's statement, "Who would have said to Avraham," reflects her amazement that Avraham would not only have a child in his old age, but that she—Sarah—would nurse children (plural). The use of the plural "banim" (children) is noteworthy, as Sarah had only given birth to one child (Yitzchak).
Midrashic Interpretations
The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 53:9) offers several explanations for Sarah's use of the plural "banim":
Rambam on Miracles in Nature
Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 2:42) discusses how this miracle—like all miracles—was embedded in nature from Creation. Sarah's ability to nurse at her advanced age was a divinely ordained alteration of natural law, demonstrating Hashem's direct involvement in establishing the covenant with Avraham's chosen lineage.
Spiritual Significance
The Kli Yakar emphasizes that Sarah's proclamation was a public sanctification of Hashem's name. By nursing before witnesses (as per the Midrash), she demonstrated that Yitzchak's birth was truly miraculous, countering any claims that he might have been adopted. This established Yitzchak's legitimacy as Avraham's sole heir according to the divine covenant.