In the context of the Bible, the term "smooth-skinned" is most notably associated with the account of Jacob and Esau, the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. This narrative is found in the Book of Genesis and highlights themes of identity, deception, and divine providence.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to smooth skin is found in Genesis 27, where Jacob, described as smooth-skinned, deceives his father Isaac to receive the blessing intended for his elder brother Esau. Esau is characterized as a hairy man, in contrast to Jacob's smooth skin. This distinction becomes crucial in the narrative of Jacob's deception.

Genesis 27:11-12 states: "Jacob answered his mother Rebekah, 'Behold, my brother Esau is a hairy man, but I am smooth-skinned. What if my father touches me? Then I would be revealed to him as a deceiver and would bring upon myself a curse rather than a blessing.'"

Theological Implications:

The contrast between Esau's hairiness and Jacob's smooth skin serves as a physical manifestation of their differing roles and destinies. Esau, the firstborn, is expected to inherit the blessing, but Jacob, through cunning and the guidance of his mother Rebekah, secures it for himself. This act of deception, facilitated by Jacob's smooth skin, is pivotal in the unfolding of God's plan for the Israelite nation.

Jacob's smooth skin is not merely a physical trait but symbolizes his ability to navigate complex situations and emerge as the chosen patriarch. The narrative underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and the unexpected ways in which His purposes are fulfilled. Despite the deception, Jacob is later transformed through his encounters with God, becoming Israel, the father of the twelve tribes.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Near Eastern culture, physical characteristics often carried symbolic meanings. The distinction between Esau and Jacob's skin textures may reflect broader cultural perceptions of identity and destiny. Hairiness was sometimes associated with strength and virility, while smoothness could imply cunning or adaptability.

Moral and Ethical Considerations:

The account raises questions about morality, ethics, and divine justice. Jacob's use of his smooth skin to deceive his father challenges readers to consider the complexities of human actions and divine will. While Jacob's actions are deceptive, they ultimately align with God's covenantal promises to Abraham and Isaac, illustrating the mysterious interplay between human agency and divine sovereignty.

Conclusion:

The concept of being smooth-skinned in the Bible, particularly in the account of Jacob and Esau, serves as a rich symbol of identity, deception, and divine purpose. It invites reflection on the ways God works through human history, often in unexpected and paradoxical ways, to accomplish His divine plans.Smooth-skinned (2 Occurrences)

Isaiah 18:2
Which sends its representatives by the sea, even in ships of papyrus on the waters. Go back quickly, O representatives, to a nation tall and smooth, to a people causing fear through all their history; a strong nation, crushing down its haters, whose land is cut through by rivers.
(See NIV)

Isaiah 18:7
In that time an offering will be made to the Lord of armies from a people tall and smooth, causing fear through all their history; a strong nation, crushing down its haters, whose land is cut through by rivers, an offering taken to the place of the name of the Lord of armies, even Mount Zion.
(See NIV)

Smooth-skinned (2 Occurrences)
Smooth-skinned. Smooths, Smooth-skinned. Smooth-sounding .
Multi-Version Concordance Smooth-skinned (2 Occurrences). ...
/s/smooth-skinned.htm - 7k

Grape (20 Occurrences)
... The berries are smooth-skinned, have a juicy pulp, and are cultivated in great
quantities for table use and for making wine and raisins. ...
/g/grape.htm - 13k

Cucumber (2 Occurrences)
... Two varieties occur, Cucumis sativus (Arabic, Khyar), originally a product of Northwest
India, which is smooth-skinned, whitish and of delicate flavor, and ...
/c/cucumber.htm - 8k

Smooth-sounding (1 Occurrence)
Smooth-sounding. Smooth-skinned, Smooth-sounding. Smote . Multi-Version
Concordance ... Smooth-skinned, Smooth-sounding. Smote . Reference Bible.
/s/smooth-sounding.htm - 6k

Smooths (1 Occurrence)

/s/smooths.htm - 6k

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