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Genesis 27:5

And Rebekah heard when Isaac spake to Esau his son. And Esau went to the field to hunt for venison, and to bring it.

Genesis 27:5 · King James Version

Meaning

Genesis 27:5 describes a pivotal moment in the story of Isaac, Rebekah, and their sons, Esau and Jacob. In this verse, Rebekah overhears Isaac instructing Esau to prepare a meal for him before he blesses him. Esau, being a skilled hunter, sets off to the field to hunt for venison. This verse sets the stage for the deception that will follow, as Rebekah hatches a plan to trick Isaac into blessing Jacob instead of Esau. The verse serves as a reminder of the complexities and intrigues within families, as well as the consequences of deception and selfishness. It offers insight into the dynamics of sibling rivalry and parental favoritism, showcasing the lengths some are willing to go to in order to secure blessings and inheritance. Through this verse, readers can reflect on themes of trust, betrayal, and the consequences of manipulation within familial relationships.

Theological Overview

Rebekah's actions in Genesis 27:5 highlight her role in the story of Jacob and Esau. The fact that she overhears Isaac's conversation with Esau reveals not only her secrecy and cunning but also her drive to manipulate the circumstances in favor of Jacob, the son she favored. This verse sets the stage for the deception that follows, as Rebekah helps Jacob obtain his father's blessing by posing as Esau. The choice of words like "heard" and "spake" in this verse indicates the intentional communication happening between the characters, emphasizing the importance of words and intentions in the unfolding of the narrative. Additionally, the mention of Esau going to the field to hunt for venison reflects his physical nature and his father's preference for him, setting up the contrast with Jacob, who was a more domestic and conniving figure. The theological implications of this verse revolve around themes of manipulation, favoritism, and the consequences of deceit within the family structure. Ultimately, Rebekah's actions lead to division and conflict between the brothers, illustrating the impact of human decisions on the course of God's plan.

Genesis 27:5 in other translations

American Standard Version

And Rebekah heard when Isaac spake to Esau his son. And Esau went to the field to hunt for venison, and to bring it.

World English Bible

Rebekah heard when Isaac spoke to Esau his son. Esau went to the field to hunt for venison, and to bring it.

Douay-Rheims

And when Rebecca had heard this, and he was gone into the field to fulfil his father's commandment,

Geneva Bible (1599)

(Nowe Rebekah heard, when Izhak spake to Esau his sonne) and Esau went into the fielde to hunt for venison, and to bring it.