Meaning: The quote "How did Abraham know that it was God that bid him offer his son, being a breach of the sixth commandment?" is a thought-provoking question posed by Anne Hutchinson, a prominent figure in early colonial America known for her religious teachings and challenges to the established Puritan clergy. This quote delves into the complex theological and moral dilemma presented in the biblical story of Abraham and his son Isaac, as recounted in the Book of Genesis. The story is often referred to as the "Binding of Isaac" or the "Akedah," and it is a powerful narrative that raises profound questions about faith, obedience, and the nature of divine command.

In the biblical account, God tests Abraham's faith by commanding him to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac, as a burnt offering. This directive seemingly contradicts the sixth commandment, which prohibits the act of killing or taking the life of another human being. The ethical and moral implications of such a command are deeply troubling, and they prompt reflection on the nature of divine authority and the limits of human obedience.

Anne Hutchinson's question challenges readers to consider how Abraham could discern that the command to sacrifice his son was truly from God, especially when it appeared to violate a fundamental moral precept. This inquiry delves into the complexities of divine communication, human understanding, and the interpretation of religious mandates. It also invites reflection on the nature of faith and the challenges of discerning divine will in the face of moral and ethical dilemmas.

Hutchinson's question resonates with theological and ethical discussions about the nature of God's commands and their relationship to human conscience and moral reasoning. It also touches on the broader themes of obedience, sacrifice, and the testing of faith found in religious traditions worldwide. The story of Abraham and Isaac has been a source of contemplation and debate for centuries, and Hutchinson's question adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing dialogue about the ethical and moral dimensions of religious belief and practice.

The quote also reflects Hutchinson's own theological perspectives and her engagement with the doctrinal teachings of the Puritan clergy in the early American colonies. As a woman who challenged traditional gender roles and religious authority, Hutchinson's question may be seen as a critique of the prevailing interpretations of biblical narratives and the moral implications of divine commands. Her inquiry invites readers to critically examine the complexities of religious texts and the ethical challenges they present, while also raising broader questions about the nature of religious obedience and moral discernment.

In summary, Anne Hutchinson's quote "How did Abraham know that it was God that bid him offer his son, being a breach of the sixth commandment?" prompts deep reflection on the intersection of faith, morality, and divine command. It invites readers to grapple with the ethical and theological implications of the biblical story of Abraham and Isaac, while also engaging with broader questions about religious authority, moral reasoning, and the complexities of human obedience in the face of profound moral dilemmas.