Genesis 17:18
“And Abraham said unto God, O that Ishmael might live before thee!”
KJV
Read in Genesis 17Meaning
Abraham speaks to God on Ishmael's behalf and asks that Ishmael might live before God.
Read carefully
The request should not be framed as proof that Ishmael is despised or cursed; the following response explicitly includes blessing for him.
Reflection
Abraham's plea expresses concern for the son already present and prepares the reader to hold together distinct promises without erasing either child.