Overview
Keturah was Abraham's second wife, whom he took after Sarah's death. She bore Abraham six sons—Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah—whose descendants populated various regions and became distinct peoples in the ancient Near East. Abraham gave gifts to Keturah's sons and sent them eastward, separating them from Isaac, who inherited the covenant promises.
Key Scriptures
"Abraham took another wife, whose name was Keturah" (Genesis 25:1, ESV). "She bore him Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah" (Genesis 25:2, ESV). "Jokshan fathered Sheba and Dedan. The sons of Dedan were Asshurim, Letushim, and Leummim" (Genesis 25:3, ESV). "The sons of Midian were Ephah, Epher, Hanoch, Abida, and Eldaah" (Genesis 25:4, ESV).
Application
Keturah's account reminds us that God's purposes extend through various family lines and nations, demonstrating His sovereignty in history and His care for all peoples.