Genesis 27:5

Now Rebekah was listening to what Isaac told his son Esau. So when Esau went into the field to hunt game and bring it back,

Study Bible

Now Rebekah was listening
The Hebrew root for "listening" is שָׁמַע (shama), which implies not just hearing but paying close attention with the intent to understand or act. Rebekah's listening is active and purposeful, indicating her awareness and involvement in the unfolding events. In the cultural context of the time, women often played significant roles behind the scenes, influencing family dynamics and decisions. Rebekah's attentiveness here sets the stage for her subsequent actions, reflecting her protective instincts and strategic thinking.

to what Isaac said
The phrase highlights the communication between Isaac and Esau, which Rebekah overhears. Isaac, as the patriarch, holds the authority to bless his sons, a significant act that would determine the future leadership and inheritance within the family. The Hebrew word for "said" is אָמַר (amar), which can also mean to declare or command, emphasizing the weight of Isaac's words. This moment underscores the importance of spoken blessings in the Hebrew tradition, where words carried the power to shape destinies.

to his son Esau
Esau, the elder son, is traditionally entitled to the birthright and blessing. His name in Hebrew, עֵשָׂו (Esav), is associated with being "hairy" or "rough," reflecting his rugged, outdoorsman persona. The mention of Esau here is crucial, as it sets up the tension between him and his brother Jacob. Historically, the firstborn's blessing was a pivotal event, often involving the transfer of leadership and divine favor, which Rebekah seeks to influence.

So when Esau went to the field
The "field" symbolizes Esau's domain and expertise as a hunter. The Hebrew word for "field" is שָׂדֶה (sadeh), often representing a place of labor and sustenance. Esau's departure to the field is a critical plot point, as it provides Rebekah and Jacob the opportunity to execute their plan. This setting also contrasts with Jacob, who is described as a "quiet man, dwelling in tents" (Genesis 25:27), highlighting the differences in their lifestyles and temperaments.

to hunt game and bring it back
Hunting was a respected skill in ancient times, providing food and demonstrating prowess. The Hebrew word for "hunt" is צָדָה (tsadah), which involves skill, patience, and strategy. Esau's task to "bring it back" indicates his role in providing for the family, a duty that also ties into the blessing Isaac intends to bestow. This phrase foreshadows the deception that will unfold, as Rebekah and Jacob plan to intercept this process, altering the course of the blessing and the family's future.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
The wife of Isaac and mother of Esau and Jacob. In Genesis 27:5, she overhears Isaac speaking to Esau and devises a plan to secure the blessing for Jacob.

2. Isaac
The patriarch and father of Esau and Jacob. He intends to bless Esau, his firstborn, as per the cultural norm.

3. Esau
The elder son of Isaac and Rebekah, known for his skills as a hunter. He is favored by Isaac and is the intended recipient of the blessing.

4. Jacob
The younger son of Isaac and Rebekah, who is favored by Rebekah. He becomes the central figure in Rebekah's plan to receive the blessing.

5. The Tent
The setting where Rebekah overhears Isaac's conversation with Esau, leading to the unfolding of her plan.

Teaching Points

The Role of Deception in God's Plan
While Rebekah's actions involve deception, God's purposes are ultimately fulfilled. This challenges us to consider how God can work through human imperfections.

The Importance of Listening to God
Rebekah's actions are influenced by the prophecy she received. This highlights the importance of being attentive to God's voice and promises in our lives.

Family Dynamics and Favoritism
The favoritism shown by Isaac and Rebekah towards their sons leads to conflict. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of favoritism within families.

Trusting in God's Sovereignty
Despite human schemes, God's plan prevails. This encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem contrary to His promises.

The Consequences of Impulsive Decisions
Esau's earlier decision to sell his birthright for a meal (Genesis 25) sets the stage for the events in Genesis 27. This teaches the importance of considering long-term consequences over immediate gratification.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's knowledge of God's prophecy in Genesis 25:23 influence her actions in Genesis 27:5, and what does this teach us about responding to God's promises?

2. In what ways do the family dynamics in Genesis 27 reflect the potential pitfalls of favoritism, and how can we apply this lesson to our own family relationships?

3. How does the account of Jacob and Esau in Genesis 27 connect to the theme of God's sovereignty as seen in Romans 9:10-13?

4. What can we learn from Esau's impulsive decisions in Genesis 25 and 27 about the importance of valuing spiritual blessings over immediate desires?

5. How can we reconcile the use of deception in Genesis 27 with the biblical call to honesty, and what does this teach us about God's ability to work through flawed human actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:23
This verse provides context for Rebekah's actions, as God had revealed to her that the older would serve the younger, indicating Jacob's future prominence.

Hebrews 12:16-17
This passage reflects on Esau's character and the consequences of his choices, providing a New Testament perspective on the events of Genesis 27.

Romans 9:10-13
Paul references the account of Jacob and Esau to illustrate God's sovereign choice, emphasizing the theme of divine election.