Where does Abraham Sarah come
Where does the expression "Seeing Abraham" come from?
When a man turns fifty, he 'sees Abraham' and a woman that reaches
that age, 'sees Sarah'.
But where does this expression originate from?
The expression is derived from a
bible text. In the Gospel John (8.57) the story is written of
the women that commited adultery. Jezus is asked what should
be done with the woman, because the law indicates that she should
be stoned. Jezus says that the person without any sins may cast
the first stone.
Nobody does. Jezus says: 'Abraham, your father has looked forward
to seeing my day and he has seen it and rejoiced'. The listeners
react surprised: 'thou are not yet 50 years old and thou has
It is also said that a 50 year old person must have the same
wisdom of life and dignity as Abraham.
Abraham (initially known as Abram) was married to Sarai. They
could not have any children. After a message of God he changed
his name to Abraham and hers to Sara(h).
Then they could have children. Abraham is seen as the instigator
of many nations.
Only half way the last century Sarah was 'introduced' for the
women. Prior to this introduction they also 'saw Abraham' when
they turned 50.
Abraham & Sarah site.