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 Abram became a father at 86, it was a time brimming with hope and worldly struggles. It’s fascinating to note that his journey as a parent didn’t come easy — he fathered Ishmael with Hagar, Sarah's handmaid, because he and Sarah had not yet seen the fulfillment of God’s promise of a child. This reveals a very human side of faith and impatience!

Now, think about it: similarly to how generations from Bethlehem sprang up stories of unexpected parents, Abram’s plight resonates with many narratives of trying to fill longings that seem too distant to reach. For many cultures, becoming a parent has different definitions and timings, reflecting an often tumultuous relationship with hope.

Also, isn’t it intriguing how names have meanings? "Ishmael" translates to "God will hear," which is a significant reminder of how pertinent communication was in that culture — and let’s not forget that Hagar’s interactions with God when she was alone and desperate were quite significant too!

Exploring genealogy during this period reminds us that many were grieving the seasons of childlessness and rejoicing at unexpected births. From the lineage of Abraham came not just the story of nations, but also deep ties that underscore humanity's ongoing quest for belonging, validators, and narratives through parental lines — a tapestry of ley lines that span across time, shaping destinies and relationships within the people of the region. How thought-provoking this early encounter of fatherhood remains today!