Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

Genesis 27:37

And Isaac answered and said unto Esau, Behold, I have made him thy lord, and all his brethren have I given to him for servants; and with corn and wine have I sustained him: and what shall I do now unto thee, my son?

Genesis 27:37 · King James Version

Meaning

Isaac's words to Esau in this verse reflect a crucial moment in the biblical narrative. In this exchange, Isaac acknowledges that he has already given the birthright blessing to Jacob, making him Esau's lord and all his brethren his servants. Isaac has also provided Jacob with sustenance in the form of corn and wine. This moment underscores the significance of the birthright blessing in the Bible, as it not only determines inheritance and status within the family but also carries spiritual and divine implications. By conveying this message to Esau, Isaac is recognizing that the birthright blessing has been bestowed upon Jacob and is questioning what he can now do for Esau in light of this decision. This verse highlights the complexities of family relationships, inheritance, and the divine will as depicted in the biblical narrative of Isaac, Esau, and Jacob.

Theological Overview

In this verse from Genesis 27:37, Isaac is speaking to his son Esau in a moment of great distress. The theological interpretation of this passage highlights the theme of blessing and its consequences. Isaac had intended to give his blessing to Esau, the elder son, but he was deceived by his wife and younger son, Jacob. As a result, Jacob received the blessing instead, leading to resentment and anguish among the family members. The word study of "sustained" in this context reveals the deep emotional weight of Isaac's words. He acknowledges that he has already bestowed blessings upon Jacob and provided for him with corn and wine, leaving him unsure of how to proceed with Esau. This verse illustrates the complexity of familial relationships and the impact of decisions made in haste or deception. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and trust in relationships, especially within the family unit.

Genesis 27:37 in other translations

American Standard Version

And Isaac answered and said unto Esau, Behold, I have made him thy lord, and all his brethren have I given to him for servants; and with grain and new wine have I sustained him: and what then shall I do for thee, my son?

World English Bible

Isaac answered Esau, “Behold, I have made him your lord, and all his brothers have I given to him for servants. With grain and new wine have I sustained him. What then will I do for you, my son?”

Douay-Rheims

Isaac answered: I have appointed him thy lord, and have made all his brethren his servants: I have established him with corn and wine, and after this, what shall I do more for thee, my son?

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then Izhak answered, and sayd vnto Esau, Beholde, I haue made him thy lorde, and all his brethre haue I made his seruants: also with wheate and wine haue I furnished him, and vnto thee now what shall I doe, my sonne?