Abraham
Abraham is a founding figure in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic tradition, known for trusting God's promises. In Genesis, he leaves his homeland, receives a promise of descendants and land, and faces painful tests involving his family. His stories raise questions about faith, obedience, hospitality, and belonging.
Key stories of Abraham
The journey and the promise
God calls Abraham to leave his homeland and promises him descendants and a land where they will live. Their covenant, a binding relationship, shapes the story of his family.
In Genesis, Abraham travels to Canaan with Sarah and Lot. Later, God directs his attention to the stars as a sign of how numerous his descendants will become.
In Genesis by Traditionally attributed to Moses
Hagar and Ishmael
Before Sarah has a child, her enslaved servant Hagar bears Abraham a son, Ishmael. Conflict within the household eventually leads to Hagar and Ishmael being sent away.
In Genesis, Abraham gives Hagar bread and water before sending her away with Ishmael. When their water runs out, God hears the boy and shows Hagar a well.
In Genesis by Traditionally attributed to Moses
The visitors and Sarah's laughter
Abraham welcomes three visitors with food and rest. They announce that Sarah will have a son, although she and Abraham are old.
In Genesis, Sarah listens from the tent while Abraham serves his guests. She laughs at the announcement that she will bear a child, but later gives birth to Isaac.
In Genesis by Traditionally attributed to Moses
The binding of Isaac
God tests Abraham by commanding him to offer Isaac as a sacrifice. A divine messenger stops him, and a ram takes the boy's place.
In Genesis, Abraham takes Isaac up a mountain and prepares an altar. Before he harms Isaac, a messenger intervenes, and Abraham finds a ram caught in a thicket.
In Genesis by Traditionally attributed to Moses
How to recognise Abraham in stories
- Look for a traveller who leaves home in response to God's call.
- Notice stars, tents, and unexpected guests linked with promises and hospitality.
- Watch for a father facing a terrible test involving his promised son.
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Are Abram and Abraham the same person?
Yes, Abram and Abraham are the same person. In Genesis, God changes Abram's name to Abraham when confirming the covenant and promising that he will become the ancestor of many nations. Sarah also receives a new name, having previously been called Sarai.
Which son was Abraham asked to sacrifice?
In Genesis, the son is Isaac. The Quran tells the testing story without naming the son; in the most common version in Islamic tradition, he is identified as Ishmael. This difference matters when reading later references to Abraham's obedience.
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