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Genesis 17:20

And as for Ishmael, I have heard thee: Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly; twelve princes shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation.

Genesis 17:20 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse regarding Ishmael in the Bible speaks to the promise made by God to Abraham regarding his son. In this verse, God assures Abraham that He has heard his prayers for Ishmael and will bless him. The promise includes that Ishmael will be made fruitful, multiply exceedingly, and will become the father of twelve princes. Additionally, God promises to make Ishmael into a great nation. This verse is significant as it demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises and His ability to bless His people abundantly. It also highlights the importance of prayer and the power of God's blessings in the lives of believers. This verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to bring about His plans and purposes for His people.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse regarding God's promise to Ishmael, it is important to note the significance of the blessings bestowed upon him. In this verse, God acknowledges Ishmael and promises to bless him with fruitfulness, multiplication, and greatness. The promise of twelve princes being begotten from Ishmael signifies a future of leadership and influence within his descendants. This amplification by God foreshadows the formation of a great nation that will emerge from Ishmael's lineage. Through this promise, God demonstrates His care and provision for all His people, reaffirming His covenant and plan for Ishmael's future. The word studies within this verse reveal the divine intention to elevate and establish Ishmael's descendants, highlighting the divine promise of prosperity and prosperity for those who serve the Lord faithfully.

Genesis 17:20 in other translations

American Standard Version

And as for Ishmael, I have heard thee: behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly; twelve princes shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation.

World English Bible

As for Ishmael, I have heard you. Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly. He will become the father of twelve princes, and I will make him a great nation.

Douay-Rheims

And as for Ismael I have also heard thee. Behold, I will bless him, and increase, and multiply him exceedingly: he shall beget twelve chiefs, and I will make him a great nation.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And as concerning Ishmael, I haue heard thee: loe, I haue blessed him, and will make him fruitfull, and will multiplie him exceedingly: twelue princes shall he beget, and I will make a great nation of him.