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Yes, according to the biblical account in Genesis, Ishmael was born before Isaac. Ishmael was the son of Abraham and Hagar, while Isaac was the son of Abraham and Sarah. Ishmael was born when Abraham was 86 years old, whereas Isaac was born when Abraham was 100 years old. Despite the chronological order of their births, both Ishmael and Isaac played significant roles in God's plan. While Ishmael was blessed by God and became the father of twelve princes, it was through Isaac's lineage that the promise of the covenant and the Messiah would ultimately be fulfilled. The birth of both Ishmael and Isaac reminds us of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and His sovereignty in working out His divine plan.

Bible Commentary

In Genesis 16:15-16, we witness the aftermath of Hagar's encounter with the angel of the Lord. After being reassured by the angel that she will bear a son named Ishmael, Hagar returns to Abram and Sarai. Hagar gives birth to Ishmael when Abram is 86 years old. This verse highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Hagar and the continuation of Abram's lineage. This passage emphasizes the faithfulness of God in keeping His promises. Despite the complicated circumstances surrounding Ishmael's birth, God remains true to His word and blesses Hagar with a son. It also serves as a reminder that God's plans and blessings are not limited by human limitations or mistakes. Even when we find ourselves in difficult situations, God can still bring about His purposes and fulfill His promises. Furthermore, this verse foreshadows the future conflicts that will arise from Ishmael's birth. As we continue to read the book of Genesis, we see the tension between Ishmael and Isaac, the son born to Abram and Sarai in their old age. This passage sets the stage for the ongoing struggles between the descendants of Ishmael and Isaac, highlighting the consequences of human choices and the complexities of God's plan.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before you with humble hearts, seeking understanding and wisdom. As we reflect on the question of whether Ishmael was born before Isaac, we turn to your Word for guidance. In Genesis 16:15-16, it is written that Hagar bore Abram a son named Ishmael when Abram was eighty-six years old. However, we know from later passages in Genesis that Isaac was born to Sarah and Abraham when Abraham was one hundred years old. Lord, we acknowledge that Isaac was indeed born after Ishmael. We thank you for the lessons we can learn from the story of Ishmael and Isaac, reminding us of your faithfulness and sovereignty in fulfilling your promises. May we always trust in your perfect timing and plans for our lives. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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