Why Did Abraham Send Ishmael Away? Abraham sent Ishmael away because Sarah, his wife, demanded it after the birth of Isaac. She felt threatened by Ishmael's presence and feared he would inherit alongside Isaac. God instructed Abraham to comply with Sarah's request, but also promised to make Ishmael into a great nation. Here's a more detailed explanation: Sarah's Demand: Sarah, having finally conceived Isaac, felt that Ishmael, her son's half-brother, posed a threat to Isaac's inheritance and sta