Hagar named God “El Roi” in Genesis 16:13 after experiencing God’s mercy and care during a time of distress. Hagar, the Egyptian maidservant of Sarah, fled into the wilderness after harsh treatment from her mistress. Alone, pregnant, and desperate, she encountered the Angel of the Lord, who spoke words of hope and direction:
“The Angel of the Lord said to her: ‘Return to your mistress, and submit yourself under her hand.’ Then the Angel of the Lord said to her, ‘I will multiply your descendants exceedingly, so that they shall not be counted for multitude.'”
(Genesis 16:9–10)
The Angel of the Lord promised Hagar a son, Ishmael, and assured her that God had heard her affliction. In response to this divine encounter, Hagar declared:
“Then she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, ‘You-Are-the-God-Who-Sees’; for she said, ‘Have I also here seen Him who sees me?'”
(Genesis 16:13)
The name El Roi means “The God Who Sees.” Hagar recognized that even in her lowest moment, God was aware of her suffering and cared enough to intervene. This revelation gave her hope and reassurance that she was not abandoned.
This event teaches several key truths:
God’s Omniscience and Care – He sees every circumstance, even when we feel invisible or forgotten.
God’s Presence in Affliction – He draws near to the brokenhearted and provides guidance and provision.
Encouragement to Trust – Knowing that God sees us should lead to trust and obedience, even when the path forward is difficult.
By naming God El Roi, Hagar testified that He is intimately aware of His people’s struggles and actively works for their good. This name continues to assure believers today that no hardship escapes God’s loving attention.
