Definition: And Sarai said unto Abram, Behold now, the LORD hath restrained me from bearing: I pray thee, go in unto my maid; it may be that I may obtain children by her. And Abram hearkened to the voice of Sarai.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 16:2 together. It’s a really important and slightly mysterious passage about God and Abraham! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it’s about God promising to help Abraham have a family. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And Sarai said unto Abram…” – This is Sarah, Abraham’s wife. She’s speaking to him. “…Behold now, the LORD hath restrained me from bearing:” - This means God told Sarah that he wouldn't allow her to have children naturally. He was preventing it. Think of it like a blessing being withheld. “I pray thee, go in unto my maid; it may be that I may obtain children by her.” – This is the key part! Sarah pleads with God to send her away to meet a woman she’s instructed to help. She's asking for guidance and a chance to have a child through her. “And Abram hearkened to the voice of Sarai.” - Abraham listened to Sarah’s request. He was receptive to her plea. So, what’s happening? God is giving Abraham permission to seek help from a woman – essentially, to have a child through a partner. It's a sign that he’s being blessed and that God wants to bring a family into the world. Why is this important? This story is a key part of the beginning of the Abrahamic story in Genesis. It highlights God’s plan for humanity – that He will create life and provide families. It also shows that Sarah’s faith and obedience played a crucial role in God's plan. In short, it’s about God’s blessing on Abraham and his desire to bring a family into the world through him. Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse more deeply? Connect this story to other stories or themes in the Bible?