Definition: And the LORD said unto Abraham, Wherefore did Sarah laugh, saying, Shall I of a surety bear a child, which am old?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 18:13. It's a really fascinating and slightly puzzling passage that gets to the heart of God’s plan for humanity. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God’s plan for a miraculous future – a child born from Abraham’s old age. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And the LORD said unto Abraham…” : This sets the scene. It’s talking to Abraham, who was a very important figure in Judaism and Christianity (and also part of the Old Testament). “…Wherefore did Sarah laugh, saying, Shall I of a surety bear a child, which am old?” This is the core of the problem. Sarah was incredibly old – she was about 90 years old at the time. The question isn't just if she would have a child; it’s how she reacted. What does this mean? The word "laugh" is crucial here. It doesn’t mean Sarah laughed with joy. Instead, her laughter suggests a mix of: Disbelief/Confusion: She was facing a huge challenge – the prospect of having a child at such an advanced age. She was questioning if it was even possible. Resignation/Frustration: There's a sense that she couldn’t possibly achieve this monumental task, given her age and circumstances. The Significance (and why it’s important): This verse is considered one of the most mysterious and debated parts of Genesis. It raises several theological questions: God's Plan: It suggests that God has a very specific plan for Abraham and his descendants. He wants this child to be significant, to bless the world. Human Limitations: It highlights humanity’s limitations – our bodies and abilities aren't always able to fulfill divine plans. Faith & Trust: The verse can also be interpreted as a reflection on faith and trust in God's plan, even when things seem impossible. In short, the verse is about a moment of profound questioning and a glimpse into how God sees our challenges and our potential. --- Do you want to explore any aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the theological significance of the verse further? Discuss different interpretations of it?