The answer is: False

Genesis 16 - Ishmael was Abraham's first son, born to Hagar. Isaac was born around 14 years later

Let’s explore this fascinating family saga! Although Isaac did hold a very special place as the child of promise, he wasn't the firstborn in the Abraham family tree. That honor belonged to Ishmael, born to Hagar, Sarah's maidservant. This little detail might seem trivial, but it sets the stage for major themes in the biblical narrative: promise, fulfillment, and sometimes, family drama!

Remember the story: Sarah was impatient for a child and suggested that Abraham bear a child with Hagar. Imagine the dynamics! Unfortunately, this creates a complicated relationship between Sarah, Hagar, and their sons. Upon Isaac's eventual birth much later, things got even murkier. Sarah’s jealousy led her to insist on sending Hagar and Ishmael away, which is rich with themes of relationships and human emotions – an intricateweb in this ancient tale.

Interestingly, Ishmael and Isaac do have a shared ancestry and both figure into the promises of the Abrahamic covenant. Did you know that in Islamic tradition, it is believed that Ishmael himself is an important figure and sometimes linked to the origins of the Prophet Muhammad? As you reflect on these stories, consider how interconnected and multi-dimensional characters within the same lineage can shape narratives across cultures and beliefs. That's the beauty of these ancient texts: they reflect real human conditions as much as they symbolize deeper spiritual truths!