In the midst of the war in Israel, Ishmael has been a topic of theological discussions and sermons from pulpits across America. This is a time for clarity about Abraham’s firstborn son. As it was after 9/11, people now have a renewed interest in the Biblical events surrounding Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Ishmael, and Isaac.
The Bible calls Ishmael a “wild donkey of a man,” that is, a restless wanderer (he was intensely passionate with his fiery prayers) who roamed the Wilderness of Paran, living by his bow and arrows. Hagar and Ishmael came to this region after leaving Abraham and Sarah. Rather, Sarah said they had to go and Abraham reluctantly sent them away.
Although Paran is described as a wilderness, it is actually a desert and quite desolate.
The modern town of Para, in Southern Isreal, is home to just over 500 people.
Islam’s Origins Tied to Ishmael
Muslims trace their religious lineage to Ishmael, an important figure in both Islamic and Biblical traditions. While he is not considered the founder of Islam, Ishmael is regarded as a prophet within Islam and is considered the ancestor of the Ishmaelites (also known as Hagarenes or Arabs).
In Islamic belief, the Qur’an identifies Ishmael as a prophet and an apostle, underscoring his spiritual significance in the faith. This differs from Western religions, where the origins of Islam can be traced back to the Prophet Muhammad and his message, which was revealed in the 7th century AD.
The connection between Ishmael and Islam can also be found in the Bible, where Ishmael is recognized as the firstborn son of the prophet Abraham. According to Biblical accounts, he is the forefather of the Muslim people. This connection, while significant, does not imply that Ishmael was the direct founder of Islam. The religion’s roots are firmly planted in the teachings and revelations of the Prophet Muhammad.
While Ishmael holds a special place in Islamic tradition as a prophet and ancestor, the religion of Islam as we know it today originated with the Prophet Muhammad, whose teachings form the basis of the faith.
