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Book of Genesis - Chapter 16 - Verse 7

16:7
And the angel of the LORD found her by a fountain of water in the wilderness, by the fountain in the way to Shur.

Meaning

In this verse from Genesis 16:7, we see the angel of the LORD finding Hagar by a fountain of water in the wilderness on her way to Shur. This encounter holds significant meaning in the biblical narrative as it marks a pivotal moment in Hagar's life. Hagar, who was Sarah's maidservant, had fled into the wilderness after facing mistreatment from Sarah. The angel of the LORD finding her at the fountain represents God's compassion and care for Hagar, even in the midst of her suffering. The fountain of water symbolizes sustenance and provision, highlighting God's faithfulness to provide for those in need. This encounter ultimately leads to a message of hope and promise for Hagar, as the angel instructs her to return to Sarah and assures her of the future blessing of her son Ishmael. This verse serves as a reminder of God's presence and intervention in the lives of His people, offering comfort and direction in times of distress.

Theological Overview

Within this verse, we see the angel of the LORD finding Hagar by a fountain of water in the wilderness on her way to Shur. This encounter holds theological significance as it reminds us of God's providential care for his people, even in the midst of difficulty and isolation. The mention of a fountain of water in the wilderness can be seen as a symbol of God's provision and sustenance for Hagar, demonstrating that he meets her needs even in the most desolate of places. Additionally, the mention of Shur, which means "wall" or "fortress," could be interpreted as a reminder of God's protection and refuge for Hagar in her time of distress. This verse serves as a powerful testament to God's compassion and presence in the lives of his children, offering hope and comfort to those who may find themselves in challenging circumstances.

American Standard Version

And the angel of Jehovah found her by a fountain of water in the wilderness, by the fountain in the way to Shur.
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