Abraham

Abraham, originally named Abram, is a foundational figure in the religious traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The name Abraham is linked to the Hebrew phrase meaning "father of a multitude," while Abram is interpreted as "exalted father"; the name was changed as part of a divine covenant. In the Hebrew Bible, Abraham is called by God to leave his homeland, Ur of the Chaldees, and settle in Canaan with his wife Sarai, who becomes Sarah. He fathers Ishmael with Hagar and, with Sarah, Isaac. The covenant promises land, descendants, and blessing for all nations, with circumcision as its sign.

In Judaism, Abraham is the founding patriarch of the Israelite people and the exemplar of faith. In Christianity, he is revered as an ancestor of the faithful and of Jesus through Isaac. In Islam, Ibrahim is a prophet and exemplar of monotheism; tradition emphasizes his submission to God and, with Ishmael, his association with the Kaaba in Mecca.

Key narrative elements include the call to obedience, the testing of faith, and divine promises to Abraham and his descendants. The historicity and dating of Abraham’s life are debated, and scholars describe him as possibly a legendary or composite figure emerging from ancient Near Eastern traditions. Regardless of historicity, Abraham remains a central symbol of covenant, faith, and monotheism across multiple faith communities.