Hagar
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Hagar in the Bible?
Hagar was an Egyptian woman, the handmaid or slave of Sarai, who became a concubine to Abram and gave birth to Ishmael. She fled into the wilderness after being harshly treated by her mistress, but returned and gave birth to Ishmael again.
SIGNIFICANCE
Hagar's narrative provides critical insight into ancient Near Eastern household dynamics, the legal status of slave women, and the theological theme of divine providence toward the marginalized.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Hagar reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Hagar in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Hagar clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Hagar." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/hagar/