Topical Bible: Falsehood: Rebekah and Isaac, in the Conspiracy Against Esau

◄ Falsehood: Rebekah and Isaac, in the Conspiracy Against Esau ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The narrative of Rebekah and Isaac's involvement in the conspiracy against Esau is a significant episode in the Book of Genesis, illustrating themes of deception, favoritism, and the fulfillment of divine prophecy. This account is primarily found in Genesis 27, where Rebekah and her younger son Jacob deceive Isaac to secure the blessing intended for Esau, the firstborn.

Background and Context

Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, married Rebekah, and they had twin sons, Esau and Jacob. Esau, the elder, was favored by Isaac, while Rebekah favored Jacob. This parental favoritism set the stage for the ensuing deception. The Lord had revealed to Rebekah during her pregnancy that "the older shall serve the younger" (Genesis 25:23), indicating Jacob's preeminence over Esau.

The Deception

As Isaac grew old and his eyesight dimmed, he decided to bestow his blessing upon Esau, his firstborn. He instructed Esau to hunt game and prepare a meal for him, after which he would bless him. Rebekah, overhearing this, devised a plan to deceive Isaac and secure the blessing for Jacob. She instructed Jacob to fetch two young goats so she could prepare a meal for Isaac, mimicking Esau's cooking. Rebekah then dressed Jacob in Esau's garments and covered his hands and neck with goat skins to imitate Esau's hairy skin.

When Jacob approached Isaac, he said, "I am Esau your firstborn. I have done as you told me. Please sit up and eat some of my game, so that you may bless me" (Genesis 27:19). Despite Isaac's initial suspicion due to the voice he heard, he was ultimately deceived by the feel of Jacob's hands and the smell of Esau's garments. Isaac proceeded to bless Jacob, conferring upon him the inheritance and authority meant for Esau.

The Aftermath

Shortly after Jacob received the blessing, Esau returned and discovered the deception. He was heartbroken and pleaded with Isaac for a blessing, but Isaac had already given the primary blessing to Jacob. Esau's anguish is palpable as he cries out, "Bless me—me too, my father!" (Genesis 27:34). Isaac's response was that Jacob had deceitfully taken Esau's blessing, and he could not revoke it.

Esau's anger towards Jacob grew, and he vowed to kill him after their father's death. Rebekah, learning of Esau's intentions, advised Jacob to flee to her brother Laban in Haran until Esau's fury subsided.

Theological Implications

This episode raises complex questions about divine sovereignty and human agency. While Rebekah and Jacob's actions were deceitful, they were instrumental in fulfilling God's prophecy that the older would serve the younger. The narrative underscores the tension between God's providential plans and the moral failings of His people. It also highlights the consequences of favoritism and deceit within a family, leading to division and strife.

The account of Rebekah and Isaac's conspiracy against Esau serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of falsehood and the importance of integrity and trust in familial relationships.