Genesis 28:6
When Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob, and sent him away to Padanaram, to take him a wife from thence; and that as he blessed him he gave him a charge, saying, Thou shalt not take a wife of the daughters of Canaan;
Genesis 28:6 · King James Version
Meaning
When Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob and sent him away to Padanaram to find a wife from there, he realized that his father did not want Jacob to marry a Canaanite woman. This verse highlights the importance of marriage within the culture of the time, as well as the significance of following the wishes of the parents in choosing a spouse. It also sheds light on the complex family dynamics at play in the story of Jacob and Esau, showcasing the tension and competition between the brothers. Furthermore, it underscores the cultural and religious importance of marrying within one's own tribe or family group, as marrying a Canaanite woman could have implications for Jacob's future and the continuation of the lineage. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the influence of family traditions and values on the decisions and actions of the individuals involved.
Theological Overview
When Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob and sent him away to Padanaram to find a wife, he realized that his own choice to marry Canaanite women had been a source of grief to his parents. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of honoring one's parents and following their guidance, especially in matters as crucial as marriage. In this context, the word "blessed" carries significant meaning, as it symbolizes not just a wish for prosperity, but also a divine empowerment. Furthermore, the instruction not to marry Canaanite women reflects a deeper theological principle of maintaining purity and staying faithful to God's covenant. Word studies of phrases such as "take him a wife" and "Thou shalt not" offer insights into the cultural norms and moral standards of the time. Overall, this verse underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands and the significance of familial relationships in the divine plan.
Genesis 28:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
Now Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob and sent him away to Paddan-aram, to take him a wife from thence; and that as he blessed him he gave him a charge, saying, Thou shalt not take a wife of the daughters of Canaan;
World English Bible
Now Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob and sent him away to Paddan Aram, to take him a wife from there, and that as he blessed him he gave him a command, saying, “You shall not take a wife of the daughters of Canaan,”
Douay-Rheims
And Esau seeing that his father had blessed Jacob, and had sent him into Mesopotamia of Syria, to marry a wife thence; and that after the blessing he had charged him, saying: Thou shalt not take a wife of the daughters of Chanaan:
Geneva Bible (1599)
When Esau sawe that Izhak had blessed Iaakob, and sent him to Padan Aram, to set him a wife thence, and giuen him a charge when he blessed him, saying, Thou shalt not take a wife of the daughters of Canaan,