Dr. Couch, Are the Arabs descendants of Ishmael?
The Arabs in the Middle East today are a mixture of many peoples, but
there are three groups that play heavily on the biblical texts. Yes,
they would include far descendants of Ishmael (Gen. 17:20-27), but also
the sons of Esau (25:24-on) and Abraham’s later sons from his wife
Keturah and his many concubines (25:1-6). Nearing death, Abraham became
guilty and fearful about the many sons from the concubines. The Bible
says that "Abraham gave gifts while he was still living, and sent them
away from his son Isaac eastward, to the land of the east" (v. 6).
All of these children were not of the covenant through Isaac and Jacob
and his sons. This is partly why there is war today in the Middle East
over the Jews, and over the Promised Land. Abraham’s family mistakes
have to a degree brought about competition, envy, and jealousy.
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch
