The answer is: Hagar

Gen 16:16

When unraveling the story of Ishmael, his mother Hagar is often overlooked, though she's a pivotal character in the Genesis narrative. Hagar was an Egyptian slave woman, serving Sarai (later Sarah), and her story unfolds a touching example of human struggle and divine intervention. While the main tale might seem focused on Abraham and Sarah, Hagar's journey provides a rich backdrop that speaks to uphill battles and resilience, marking her importance in biblical history.

Did you know that Hagar’s name means “flight”? This is quite literally connected to her story, as she flees into the wilderness when Sarah’s jealousy becomes too tough to bear. In her flight, Hagar encounters an angel, who not only comforts her but makes significant promises about her offspring, Ishmael—meaning "God will hear." She becomes the first woman in the Bible to receive a promise from God, showcasing the unbroken line of connection God maintains with all humankind, extending beyond the chosen lineage of Abraham.

In fact, Hagar's plight resonates throughout scripture as a symbol of the marginalized—she represents those who are often silenced. Her significant backstory underlines the idea that divine care knows no boundaries and reaches into the lives of all, regardless of status or lineage. Hagar's story complicates the delineations of who belongs to God’s promises, beautifully weaving her legacy into the larger narrative of God's relationship with humanity.