The answer is: Harshly

Genesis 16:6 - Sarah treated Hagar harshly, leading Hagar to flee into the wilderness. This conflict continued after Ishmael's birth.

When we dive into the story of Sarah and Hagar, we stumble upon a tale filled with complex emotions, social dynamics, and deep theological implications. Sarah's treatment of Hagar, which can be described as harsh, serves as an intense moment in Genesis that reveals the cultural pressures of childbearing in the ancient Near East. Hagar, Sarah’s maid, initially held a powerful position as she became the mother of Abraham's first son, Ishmael. This shift in status caused a rift between the two women that reflects the very human themes of jealousy and rivalry.

After conceiving, Hagar began to look upon Sarah "with contempt" (Genesis 16:4), igniting a fierce response from Sarah. The dynamics here aren't just about personal feelings; think of it as a broader societal commentary. In those times, a woman’s worth was often measured by her ability to bear children. The tension we see might remind us of later biblical narratives filled with competition and tension around the theme of fertility.

Interestingly, this wilderness moment for Hagar isn’t just a plot twist; it symbolizes a profound journey. After fleeing, Hagar encounters a divine being who reassures her, framing her as the mother of a nation (Genesis 16:10). This enhances the narrative's richness, underscoring an often-overlooked message: that in moments of hardship, connection with the divine can offer hope and acknowledgment, regardless of societal status. Hagar stands out as one of the few women in biblical history to receive direct guidance and comfort from God, reminding us that divine attention crosses all boundaries of human conflict and hierarchy.