Then Rebekah said to Isaac, "I am weary of my life because of these Hittite women. If Jacob takes a Hittite wife from among them, what good is my life?" Then Rebekah said to IsaacThis phrase introduces a pivotal moment in the narrative, highlighting Rebekah's role as a matriarch deeply concerned about her family's future. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) often conveys not just speech but a declaration of intent or emotion. Rebekah's communication with Isaac underscores her influence and the weight of her concerns. Historically, the patriarchal family structure allowed women like Rebekah to wield significant influence, especially in matters of marriage and family continuity. I am weary of my life because of these Hittite women If Jacob takes a wife from among the women of this land from Hittite women like these what good is my life? Persons / Places / Events 1. RebekahThe wife of Isaac and mother of Esau and Jacob. She expresses her distress over the potential influence of local Canaanite women on her son Jacob. 2. Isaac The patriarch, husband of Rebekah, and father of Esau and Jacob. He is approached by Rebekah with her concerns about Jacob's future marriage. 3. Jacob The younger son of Isaac and Rebekah, whom Rebekah wishes to protect from marrying a Canaanite woman. 4. Esau Jacob's older brother, who has already married Canaanite women, causing distress to his parents. 5. Daughters of Heth Canaanite women, representing the local pagan culture that Rebekah fears will negatively influence Jacob. Teaching Points The Importance of Godly InfluenceRebekah's concern highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with godly influences, especially in marriage. Believers are encouraged to seek partners who share their faith to maintain spiritual integrity. Parental Guidance and Wisdom Rebekah's plea to Isaac underscores the role of parents in guiding their children towards godly decisions. Parents should actively pray for and counsel their children in matters of faith and life choices. Cultural and Spiritual Distinctions The account illustrates the tension between cultural practices and spiritual convictions. Believers are called to discern and uphold their faith amidst cultural pressures. The Consequences of Unequal Yoking Esau's marriage to Canaanite women serves as a cautionary tale about the potential spiritual consequences of being unequally yoked with unbelievers. Trusting God's Plan Despite the challenges and concerns, believers are reminded to trust in God's overarching plan and sovereignty in their lives and the lives of their loved ones. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Rebekah's concern for Jacob's marriage reflect the broader biblical theme of maintaining covenant faithfulness?2. In what ways can parents today provide godly guidance to their children in choosing a spouse, and how does this align with biblical teachings? 3. How can believers discern and resist cultural influences that may conflict with their faith, as seen in Rebekah's concern about the daughters of Heth? 4. What lessons can we learn from Esau's marriages about the importance of being equally yoked in faith, and how does this apply to relationships today? 5. How can we trust in God's plan for our lives and the lives of our loved ones, even when faced with challenging circumstances or decisions? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 26:34-35These verses describe Esau's marriage to the Hittite women, which brought grief to Isaac and Rebekah, setting the context for Rebekah's concern in Genesis 27:46. Genesis 28:1-2 Isaac instructs Jacob not to marry a Canaanite woman, directly following Rebekah's plea, showing the importance of maintaining the covenant lineage. Deuteronomy 7:3-4 This passage warns against intermarriage with pagan nations, emphasizing the risk of turning away from God, which aligns with Rebekah's concerns.
People Esau, Haran, Heth, Isaac, Jacob, Laban, RebekahPlaces Beersheba, HaranTopics Daughters, Disgusted, Heth, Hittite, I'm, Isaac, Jacob, Marries, Presence, Rebecca, Rebekah, Takes, Tired, Weariness, Weary, Wife, Women, WorthDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 27:46 5711 marriage, restrictions Library There is a Great Question About Lying, which Often Arises in the Midst Of...1. There is a great question about Lying, which often arises in the midst of our every day business, and gives us much trouble, that we may not either rashly call that a lie which is not such, or decide that it is sometimes right to tell a lie, that is, a kind of honest, well-meant, charitable lie. This question we will painfully discuss by seeking with them that seek: whether to any good purpose, we need not take upon ourselves to affirm, for the attentive reader will sufficiently gather from the … St. Augustine—On Lying Epistle Lii. To Natalis, Bishop . The Blessing of Jacob Upon Judah. (Gen. Xlix. 8-10. ) Letter xxxv. From Pope Damasus. Touching Jacob, However, that which He did at his Mother's Bidding... Conflict. First Withdrawal from Herod's Territory and Return. Genesis Links Genesis 27:46 NIVGenesis 27:46 NLT Genesis 27:46 ESV Genesis 27:46 NASB Genesis 27:46 KJV Genesis 27:46 Commentaries Bible Hub |