Like the universe is saying, "Okay, sure, but are you really ready for this?"
That's the kind of vibe I get from this little nugget of a midrash based on Genesis 17:19. You know the story: God’s just told Abraham, who's pushing a hundred, that he's going to have a son with Sarah, who's... well, let's just say she's also no spring chicken.
And the verse in question? "Yes, be it so: behold Sarah thy wife shall also bring forth a son unto thee?" (Genesis 17:19).
Now, on the surface, it's straightforward. Confirmation, right? But the Midrash of Philo, specifically Midrash 19, asks a fascinating question: Why the extra oomph? Why doesn't God just say, "Yep, you're having a kid"? Why the "Yes, be it so... also..."?
It's like the divine oracle is adding an almost unnecessary emphasis, isn’t it? A little "just so you know..." tacked on the end.
It makes you wonder, what's the subtext here? What's hiding beneath the surface of this seemingly simple statement?
Perhaps, the also suggests that this birth is not only about fulfilling a promise to Abraham, but is ALSO about Sarah. That she, in her age and presumed infertility, is ALSO being recognized, blessed, and included in this miracle. It's not just Abraham's story; it's their story.
Think about it. They’d been waiting decades. They’d even tried taking matters into their own hands with Hagar. So, to have God say, "Yes, it's happening, and Sarah is also part of this..." maybe it's a way of reassuring them both that this miracle encompasses their shared journey, their shared faith, and their shared hope.
Could it be, then, that the also isn’t just an affirmation, but an acknowledgement of the long and winding road they traveled to get to this moment? A divine nod to the shared history, the struggles, and the unwavering belief that finally bore fruit?
Maybe.
Or maybe the universe just likes to add a little dramatic flair to its pronouncements. After all, where would we be without a little suspense?