Genesis 27:9

Go out to the flock and bring me two choice young goats, so that I can make them into a tasty dish for your father--the kind he loves.

Study Bible

Go to the flock
This phrase indicates an immediate action, a directive given by Rebekah to Jacob. The Hebrew root for "go" is "הלך" (halak), which often implies a purposeful journey or mission. In the context of ancient pastoral life, the flock was central to daily sustenance and wealth. This directive underscores the urgency and cunning of Rebekah's plan, as she seeks to secure Isaac's blessing for Jacob through a familiar and trusted source of food.

bring me
The phrase "bring me" suggests a personal involvement and responsibility. The Hebrew word "בוא" (bo) means to come or bring, indicating an act of obedience and service. Rebekah's command to Jacob is not just about fetching the goats but involves him in the deception, highlighting the familial dynamics and the lengths to which Rebekah is willing to go to ensure Jacob's future.

two choice young goats
The specification of "two choice young goats" is significant. In Hebrew, "טוב" (tov) means good or choice, indicating quality and suitability for the task. Young goats were considered tender and ideal for a meal. This choice reflects Rebekah's knowledge of Isaac's preferences and her intention to create a meal that would convincingly mimic Esau's game, thus deceiving Isaac.

so I can make them into a delicious meal
The phrase "make them into a delicious meal" involves the Hebrew word "עשה" (asah), meaning to do or make, and "מטעמים" (mat'amim), meaning delicacies or savory food. Rebekah's culinary skills are emphasized here, as she plans to prepare a meal that would appeal to Isaac's senses. This reflects the cultural importance of food in familial blessings and the role of women in domestic life.

for your father
The phrase "for your father" personalizes the act, reminding Jacob of the familial bond and the significance of the blessing. The Hebrew "אביך" (avikha) denotes a direct relationship, emphasizing the patriarchal structure of the family. This highlights the gravity of the situation, as the blessing from Isaac, the father, holds spiritual and material significance for the future of his sons.

the kind he loves
This phrase, "the kind he loves," underscores the personal preference and affection Isaac has for this type of meal. The Hebrew "אהב" (ahav) means to love or have affection for, indicating a deep-seated preference. Rebekah's knowledge of Isaac's tastes is crucial to her plan's success, as it relies on appealing to his senses and emotions to secure the blessing for Jacob. This reflects the intimate knowledge and influence family members have over one another in biblical narratives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
The wife of Isaac and mother of Esau and Jacob. In Genesis 27:9, she is orchestrating a plan to deceive her husband Isaac to secure the blessing for her favored son, Jacob.

2. Jacob
The younger son of Isaac and Rebekah. He is instructed by his mother to deceive his father by pretending to be his brother Esau to receive the blessing.

3. Isaac
The aging and blind patriarch who intends to bless his elder son Esau. He is unaware of Rebekah and Jacob's plan.

4. Esau
The elder son of Isaac and Rebekah, who is the rightful recipient of the blessing according to tradition. He is out hunting to prepare a meal for his father.

5. The Flock
The source of the young goats that Rebekah instructs Jacob to fetch. These animals are central to the deception as they are used to prepare a meal for Isaac.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Deception
Rebekah's plan to deceive Isaac highlights the immediate and long-term consequences of deceit. While it achieved the desired outcome, it led to family strife and separation.

God's Sovereignty and Human Actions
Despite human manipulation, God's purposes prevail. This account reminds us that God's plans are not thwarted by human actions, but it also calls us to act righteously.

Parental Influence and Responsibility
Rebekah's influence on Jacob shows the significant impact parents have on their children's actions and character. It challenges parents to guide their children in truth and integrity.

The Value of Spiritual Blessings
The lengths to which Rebekah and Jacob go to secure Isaac's blessing underscore the importance of spiritual blessings and inheritance, urging believers to prioritize spiritual over material gains.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's plan in Genesis 27:9 reflect her understanding of God's promise in Genesis 25:23, and what does this teach us about trusting God's timing?

2. In what ways does the deception in Genesis 27:9 lead to unintended consequences, and how can we apply this lesson to our own lives when faced with ethical dilemmas?

3. How does the account of Jacob and Esau in Genesis 27 connect with the New Testament teachings in Hebrews 12:16-17 about valuing spiritual blessings?

4. What role does parental influence play in the events of Genesis 27:9, and how can parents today ensure they are guiding their children according to biblical principles?

5. Considering Romans 9:10-13, how can we reconcile God's sovereignty with human actions, and what does this mean for our daily decision-making and trust in God's plan?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:23
This verse provides context for Rebekah's actions, as God had told her that the older would serve the younger, which may have influenced her decision to deceive Isaac.

Hebrews 12:16-17
This passage warns against godlessness like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights. It connects to the theme of valuing spiritual blessings.

Romans 9:10-13
Paul references Jacob and Esau to illustrate God's sovereign choice, which ties back to the events of Genesis 27.