cognize that, at different times, it has been thought that it was sexual activity that brought forth Sarah's harsh reaction, since the Hebrew word for "laughing", metsaheq, or metzachek, also translated in these various texts as "playing" and "mocking", can be translated as sexual dalliance. There is nothing, however, to really substantiate, and it is also thought that metzachek is a direct allusion to Yitzhak, or Isaac. The word "play" seems to indicate that Sarah realizes the children's closeness. It is then that she resolves to end the relationship by freeing Hagar and sending her away. According to the laws of Lipit-Ishtar, the slave-girl and her some may become free, but are not entitled to an inheritance. It is recognized in both commentaries regarding Verse 14, that since Ishmael is 14 years older than Isaac (Gen. 16:16), this verse is a little unclear. Both commentaries recognize the writer's sympathy for Hagar and Ishmael and his descendents. Underlying the episode regarding Hagar's wandering in the desert and the recognition of Ishmael's "great nation", is the essential acknowledgment of similarity of both tribes. Verse 16: Bowshot away refers to Ishmael's future expertise. Verse 17. The phrase "where he is" identifies the fact that God always hears and judges one on his present circumstances, not for where he was or will be. Here, the commentaries also note that the angel's declaration that God has heard is also the meaning of Ishmael's name-God will hear. In summary, while Sarah prevails upon Abraham to be rid of Hagar, the bible attempts no justification of Abraham, Sarah, or of God. As always, God's will prevails. He directs actions in His own way. What, on a human plane, appears as Sarah's cruelness is, on God's plane, part of His plan. Sarah's wishes happen to agree with the idea of God's will. Therefore, Sarah's deeds receive God's approval while Abraham's do not. Also, Abraham's fondness for both H...
