The answer is: 86 years

Abram (who was later named Abraham) had his first son, Ishmael at the age of 86. Gen 16:16

When we think about Abram, or Abraham as he later became known, we often envision him as the patriarch of three major faiths: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. But did you know he embraced fatherhood at 86? Today, we might think of this as unusual; however, in ancient cultures, having children later in life wasn’t entirely uncommon.

Now, let’s talk about Ishmael, Abraham's first son, whom he had with Hagar, Sarai's maidservant. Hagar’s story isn’t just a tale of personal conflict; it reflects the complex dynamics of human relationships, highlighting themes of hope, resilience, and even the struggle for recognition. The name Ishmael means "God will hear," reflecting God's assurance to Hagar during a moment of desperation when she fled from her situation (Genesis 16:11 - 12).

Interestingly, the narrative doesn’t simply focus on Ishmael; it lays groundwork for issues we see throughout scripture, especially the tensions between his descendants and those of Isaac. Strides of faith, family complexities, and divine promises swirl through their stories. Plus, echoes of these themes of reconciliation and faith reverberate in our own lives.

As we journey through these ancient stories, remember that they’re invitations to explore human experiences, emphasizing the belief that each of us counts and our paths are distinctly woven through history.