The answer is: Hagar

Gen 16:16

Ah, Hagar! The name resonates with history, hardship, and resilience. Hagar was Sarah’s Egyptian maidservant, and her story is intertwined with themes of struggle and survival that many can relate to today. When Sarah, whose name means "princess," saw that she could not bear children, she gave Hagar the chance to birth a child for her, unveiling a complex tango of family dynamics that would echo throughout the ages.

Picture this: Hagar, a foreigner in a strange land, becomes the matriarch of Ishmael, one of the sons that would lead to the founding of a significant lineage. This connection gives Ishmael a noteworthy position in Abrahamic traditions. Jewish, Christian, and Islamic beliefs regard him as a meaningful figure, highlighting themes of divine promise that are not just isolated to Isaac's line.

Fun fact: the name "Ishmael" means "God hears," reflecting the divine attention given to his plight as Hagar ventures into the wilderness. When she fled to escape harsh treatment from Sarah, the angel of the Lord found her and promised that Ishmael would be a great nation. Their relationship is often portrayed as a reminder that divine compassion extends to all, not just the fortunate.

Moreover, Hagar’s journey is even used metaphorically, showcasing that those who find themselves marginalized—like her—are seen in the heart of ancient narratives. That's a theme present from the very beginning!