Genesis 16:7 - 10
ESV - 7 The angel of the Lord found her by a spring of water in the wilderness, the spring on the way to Shur. 8 And he said, "Hagar, servant of Sarai, where have you come from and where are you going?" She said, "I am fleeing from my mistress Sarai.
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
As indicated in the verse from Genesis cited in the question, Hagar was found by "the angel of the Lord". Some commentators are of the opinion that, when this specific designation is used (that is, "the" angel of the Lord, rather than just "angels of the Lord", or "an" angel of the Lord), it refers to an appearance in physical or visible form of God Himself (either the Father or the pre-incarnate Christ). In other passages of Scripture where "the angel of the Lord" appears, He speaks as God, identifies Himself as God, and exercises the responsibilities of God. Those who see this Being likewise indicate their belief that they have seen God. In addition to the verses cited in the question, these passages include Genesis 21:17-18; 22:11-18; Exodus 3:2; Judges 2:1-4; 5:23; 6:11-24; 13:3-22; 2 Samuel 24:16; and Zechariah 1:12; 3:1; 12:8. Also, these appearances ceased after Christ was incarnated, further supporting this interpretation.
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.