Genesis 21:20

And God was with the lad; and he grew, and dwelt in the wilderness, and became an archer.

And God {H430} was with the lad {H5288}; and he grew {H1431}, and dwelt {H3427} in the wilderness {H4057}, and became an archer {H7235}{H7199}.

God was with the boy, and he grew. He lived in the desert and became an archer.

And God was with the boy, and he grew up and settled in the wilderness and became a great archer.

And God was with the lad, and he grew; and he dwelt in the wilderness, and became, as he grew up, an archer.

Commentary

Genesis 21:20 (KJV): "And God was with the lad; and he grew, and dwelt in the wilderness, and became an archer."

Context of Genesis 21:20

This verse comes directly after the dramatic expulsion of Hagar and her son, Ishmael, from Abraham's household at Sarah's insistence. Facing death in the wilderness of Beersheba, Ishmael's cries, along with Hagar's, were heard by God. An angel of God intervened, providing water and reiterating God's promise to Hagar that He would make Ishmael a great nation. Genesis 21:20 then describes the immediate outcome of this divine intervention, highlighting God's continued care and providence over Ishmael's life, even though he was not the son through whom the covenant promises to Abraham would pass.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Presence and Providence: The opening phrase, "And God was with the lad," is the central message. It signifies God's active protection, guidance, and favor over Ishmael. Despite his outcast status and the harsh environment, God ensured his well-being and growth. This theme resonates throughout Scripture, reminding us of God's unwavering presence with those He cares for, as seen with figures like Joseph in Genesis 39:2.
  • Growth and Development: "He grew" indicates a period of natural maturation and thriving, contrary to the initial desperation of being abandoned in the desert. This physical growth underscores God's provision for life and sustenance.
  • Adaptation and Skill: "Dwelt in the wilderness, and became an archer" highlights Ishmael's successful adaptation to his challenging nomadic environment. Becoming an archer was a vital survival skill in the wilderness, essential for hunting and protection. This detail foreshadows the character of his descendants, a people known for their independence and skill, consistent with the prophecy in Genesis 16:12 that he would be a "wild ass of a man."

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase "וַיְהִי אֱלֹהִים אֶת־הַנַּעַר" (vayhi Elohim et-hanna'ar) literally means "And God was with the youth." The term Elohim refers to God as the mighty Creator and Sovereign. The preposition et ("with") emphasizes a close, active, and supportive companionship. This simple yet profound statement encapsulates God's faithfulness and compassion, extending His care even to those outside the direct lineage of the covenant, demonstrating His overarching concern for all humanity.

Practical Application

Genesis 21:20 offers powerful encouragement for believers today. It assures us that God's care is not limited by our circumstances or by human judgments. Even in our "wilderness" experiences—times of hardship, rejection, or uncertainty—God's presence is a constant source of strength and provision. This verse reminds us that God equips us with the necessary skills and resilience to adapt and even thrive in challenging environments. It encourages us to trust in God's providence, knowing that His plans are vast and encompass even those we might consider outside the primary focus, reflecting His ultimate desire to bless all families of the earth.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 28:15

    And, behold, I [am] with thee, and will keep thee in all [places] whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done [that] which I have spoken to thee of.

  • Genesis 39:21

    But the LORD was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison.

  • Genesis 16:12

    And he will be a wild man; his hand [will be] against every man, and every man's hand against him; and he shall dwell in the presence of all his brethren.

  • Genesis 10:9

    He was a mighty hunter before the LORD: wherefore it is said, Even as Nimrod the mighty hunter before the LORD.

  • Luke 1:80

    And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.

  • Genesis 25:27

    And the boys grew: and Esau was a cunning hunter, a man of the field; and Jacob [was] a plain man, dwelling in tents.

  • Judges 6:12

    And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD [is] with thee, thou mighty man of valour.
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