Genesis 16:8

Genesis 16:8 a

‘And he said, “Hagar, handmaid of Sarai, from where have you come and where are you going?” '

It is clear that by becoming what she has Hagar has been brought within the covenant and that God will not let her go. But note that she is addressed as ‘handmaid of Sarai' not wife of Abram. God accepts the customs of the people. Such an address from a stranger (angels are not usually recognised as such immediately) alerts her to the fact that this is an unusual visitation. Yet it also reminds her she is in the wrong. She ‘belongs' to Sarai and the tribe.

“From where have you come?” He wants her to recognise that she shares in an unusually favourable circumstance, that of being within Yahweh's covenant. And she is deserting it.

“Where are you going?” He also asks her to face the question as to what kind of a future there is for her and her child if she continues on her way. Life in Egypt will not be easy for a solitary woman with child. But the writer also wants us to recognise that she is, as it were, leaving the presence of God.

Genesis 16:8 b

‘And she said, “I flee from the face of my mistress Sarai”.'

Hagar must have been appalled that at this stage, when she has nearly reached safety, she has met someone who knows her status. She does not try to avoid the question or lie. She admits her guilt.