About Genesis

Genesis is the book of beginnings, recording the creation of the world, the origin of humanity, the entrance of sin, and the beginning of God's plan of redemption through the family of Abraham.

Author: MosesWritten: c. 1445-1405 BCReading time: ~6 minVerses: 46
CreationFall of ManCovenantFaithProvidenceRedemption

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King James Version

Genesis 27

46 verses with commentary

Jacob Steals Esau's Blessing

And it came to pass, that when Isaac was old, and his eyes were dim, so that he could not see, he called Esau his eldest son, and said unto him, My son: and he said unto him, Behold, here am I.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And it came to pass, that when Isaac was old, and his eyes were dim, so that he could not see, he ca...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

XXVII. JACOB BY SUBTILTY OBTAINS THE FIRSTBORN’S BLESSING. (1) **It came to pass.**—The importance of this chapter is manifest. Just as in Abraham’s life the decision had to be made which of the two sons, Ishmael and Isaac, was to be the heir of the promise, so, here again, there is the same Divine election (Romans 9:10-13): but while Abraham obeyed, though with heavy heart (Genesis 21:11), Isaac ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 27 Chapter Outline Isaac sends Esau for venison.(1-5) Rebekah teaches Jacob to obtain the blessing.(6-17) Jacob, pretending to be Esau, obtains the blessing.(18-29) Isaac's fear, Esau's importunity.(30-40) Esau threatens Jacob's life, Rebekah sends Jacob away.(41-46) **Verses 1-5** The promises of the Messiah, and of the land of Canaan, had come down to Isaac....
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And he said, Behold now, I am old, I know not the day of my death:

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And he said, Behold now, I am old, I know not the day of my death:...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God graciously transforms.<br><br>Key...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 27 Chapter Outline Isaac sends Esau for venison.(1-5) Rebekah teaches Jacob to obtain the blessing.(6-17) Jacob, pretending to be Esau, obtains the blessing.(18-29) Isaac's fear, Esau's importunity.(30-40) Esau threatens Jacob's life, Rebekah sends Jacob away.(41-46) **Verses 1-5** The promises of the Messiah, and of the land of Canaan, had come down to Isaac....
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Now therefore take, I pray thee, thy weapons, thy quiver and thy bow, and go out to the field, and take me some venison ; take: Heb. hunt

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Now therefore take, I pray thee, thy weapons, thy quiver and thy bow, and go out to the field, and t...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(3) **Thy quiver.**—This word does not occur elsewhere, and is rendered in the Targum and Syriac *a sword. *As it is derived from a root signifying *to hang, *it probably means, like our word *hanger, *a sort of knife; but all that we can say for certain is that it was some sort of hunting implement. **Take me some venison.**—The Heb. is *hunt me a hunting. *“*Venison,” *the Latin *venatio, *means...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 27 Chapter Outline Isaac sends Esau for venison.(1-5) Rebekah teaches Jacob to obtain the blessing.(6-17) Jacob, pretending to be Esau, obtains the blessing.(18-29) Isaac's fear, Esau's importunity.(30-40) Esau threatens Jacob's life, Rebekah sends Jacob away.(41-46) **Verses 1-5** The promises of the Messiah, and of the land of Canaan, had come down to Isaac....
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And make me savoury meat, such as I love, and bring it to me, that I may eat; that my soul may bless thee before I die.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And make me savoury meat, such as I love, and bring it to me, that I may eat; that my soul may bless...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(4) **Savoury meat.**—On the rare occasions on which an Arab sheik tastes flesh, it is flavoured with almonds, pistachio nuts, and raisins. It would thus not be easy for Isaac to distinguish the taste of the flesh of a kid from that of an antelope. As the Arabs always spare their own flocks and herds, the capture of a wild animal gives them the greater pleasure, and a feast thus provided seemed to...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 27 Chapter Outline Isaac sends Esau for venison.(1-5) Rebekah teaches Jacob to obtain the blessing.(6-17) Jacob, pretending to be Esau, obtains the blessing.(18-29) Isaac's fear, Esau's importunity.(30-40) Esau threatens Jacob's life, Rebekah sends Jacob away.(41-46) **Verses 1-5** The promises of the Messiah, and of the land of Canaan, had come down to Isaac....
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And Rebekah heard when Isaac spake to Esau his son. And Esau went to the field to hunt for venison, and to bring it.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Rebekah heard when Isaac spake to Esau his son. And Esau went to the field to hunt for venison, ...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(5) **Rebekah heard.**—She was possibly present when Isaac gave the order, and he may even have wished her to know his determination to give the blessing to his favourite son. But the words filled her with dismay. She had, no doubt, treasured the prophecy of Jacob’s ultimate superiority, and now it seemed as if the father would reverse it. Had her faith been pure and exalted, she would have known ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 27 Chapter Outline Isaac sends Esau for venison.(1-5) Rebekah teaches Jacob to obtain the blessing.(6-17) Jacob, pretending to be Esau, obtains the blessing.(18-29) Isaac's fear, Esau's importunity.(30-40) Esau threatens Jacob's life, Rebekah sends Jacob away.(41-46) **Verses 1-5** The promises of the Messiah, and of the land of Canaan, had come down to Isaac....
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And Rebekah spake unto Jacob her son, saying, Behold, I heard thy father speak unto Esau thy brother, saying,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Rebekah spake unto Jacob her son, saying, Behold, I heard thy father speak unto Esau thy brother...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**12. Then Isaac sowed in that land--**During his sojourn in that district he farmed a piece of land, which, by the blessing of God on his skill and industry, was very productive (Is 65:13; Psa 37:19); and by his plentiful returns he increased so rapidly in wealth and influence that the Philistines, afraid or envious of his prosperity, obliged him to leave the place (Pr 27:4; Ec 4:4). This may rec...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 6-17** Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and to religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine...
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Bring me venison, and make me savoury meat, that I may eat, and bless thee before the LORD before my death.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Bring me venison, and make me savoury meat, that I may eat, and bless thee before the LORD before my...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(7) **Before the Lord **(*Jehovah*)*.—*Rebekah has been accused of inserting words which Isaac had not used; but it is unreasonable to suppose that more is recorded of Isaac’s address to his son than the main sense. Still, these words had a meaning to Jacob which they did not bear to Esau. The latter cared for his father’s blessing, partly from natural affection, but chiefly because of the tempora...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 6-17** Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and to religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine...
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Now therefore, my son, obey my voice according to that which I command thee.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Now therefore, my son, obey my voice according to that which I command thee....</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God graciously transforms.<...
Read full commentary →

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 6-17** Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and to religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine...
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Go now to the flock, and fetch me from thence two good kids of the goats; and I will make them savoury meat for thy father, such as he loveth:

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Go now to the flock, and fetch me from thence two good kids of the goats; and I will make them savou...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(9) **Two good kids.**—These would be about equal to one antelope or animal of the larger game. After Isaac had eaten of the flesh, so solemn an occasion would doubtless be marked by a feast for those, at least in the foremost tents, if not for all the household and followers of Isaac.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**15. all the wells which his father's servants had digged ... the Philistines had stopped, &amp;c.--**The same base stratagem for annoying those against whom they have taken an umbrage is practiced still by choking the wells with sand or stones, or defiling them with putrid carcases.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 6-17** Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and to religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine...
Read full commentary →

And thou shalt bring it to thy father, that he may eat, and that he may bless thee before his death.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And thou shalt bring it to thy father, that he may eat, and that he may bless thee before his death....</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 6-17** Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and to religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine...
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And Jacob said to Rebekah his mother, Behold, Esau my brother is a hairy man, and I am a smooth man:

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Jacob said to Rebekah his mother, Behold, Esau my brother is a hairy man, and I am a smooth man:...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**17. valley of Gerar--**torrent-bed or wady, a vast undulating plain, unoccupied and affording good pasture.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 6-17** Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and to religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine...
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My father peradventure will feel me, and I shall seem to him as a deceiver; and I shall bring a curse upon me, and not a blessing.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>My father peradventure will feel me, and I shall seem to him as a deceiver; and I shall bring a curs...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**18-22. Isaac digged again the wells of water--**The naming of wells by Abraham, and the hereditary right of his family to the property, the change of the names by the Philistines to obliterate the traces of their origin, the restoration of the names by Isaac, and the contests between the respective shepherds to the exclusive possession of the water, are circumstances that occur among the natives...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 6-17** Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and to religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine...
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And his mother said unto him, Upon me be thy curse, my son: only obey my voice, and go fetch me them.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And his mother said unto him, Upon me be thy curse, my son: only obey my voice, and go fetch me them...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(13) **Upon me be thy curse.**—No curse followed upon their conduct; but, on the contrary, Isaac acknowledged the substantial justice of the act of Rebekah and her son, and confirmed Jacob in the possession of the blessing (Genesis 27:33). It seems strange, nevertheless, that neither of them had any scruples at the immorality of the deed, but apparently thought that as the end was right they were ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**18-22. Isaac digged again the wells of water--**The naming of wells by Abraham, and the hereditary right of his family to the property, the change of the names by the Philistines to obliterate the traces of their origin, the restoration of the names by Isaac, and the contests between the respective shepherds to the exclusive possession of the water, are circumstances that occur among the natives...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 6-17** Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and to religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine...
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And he went, and fetched, and brought them to his mother: and his mother made savoury meat, such as his father loved.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And he went, and fetched, and brought them to his mother: and his mother made savoury meat, such as ...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**18-22. Isaac digged again the wells of water--**The naming of wells by Abraham, and the hereditary right of his family to the property, the change of the names by the Philistines to obliterate the traces of their origin, the restoration of the names by Isaac, and the contests between the respective shepherds to the exclusive possession of the water, are circumstances that occur among the natives...
Read full commentary →

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 6-17** Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and to religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine...
Read full commentary →

And Rebekah took goodly raiment of her eldest son Esau, which were with her in the house, and put them upon Jacob her younger son: goodly: Heb. desirable

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Rebekah took goodly raiment of her eldest son Esau, which were with her in the house, and put th...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(15) **Goodly raiment.**—It has been supposed that the elder son held a sort of priestly office in the household, and as Isaac’s sight was growing dim, that Esau ministered for him at sacrifices. Evidently the clothing was something special, and such as was peculiar to Esau: for ordinary raiment, however handsome, would not have been kept in the mother’s tent, but in that of Esau or of one of his ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**18-22. Isaac digged again the wells of water--**The naming of wells by Abraham, and the hereditary right of his family to the property, the change of the names by the Philistines to obliterate the traces of their origin, the restoration of the names by Isaac, and the contests between the respective shepherds to the exclusive possession of the water, are circumstances that occur among the natives...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 6-17** Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and to religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine...
Read full commentary →

And she put the skins of the kids of the goats upon his hands, and upon the smooth of his neck:

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And she put the skins of the kids of the goats upon his hands, and upon the smooth of his neck:...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God grac...
Read full commentary →

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(16) **The skins of the kids.**—In hot countries the coats of animals are far less thick and coarse than in cold climates, and some species of Oriental goats are famous for their soft, silky wool. But in those cases in which men have their bodies covered with hair, it is by no means of a delicate texture. In Song of Solomon 4:1 Solomon’s hair is compared to that of a flock of goats.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**18-22. Isaac digged again the wells of water--**The naming of wells by Abraham, and the hereditary right of his family to the property, the change of the names by the Philistines to obliterate the traces of their origin, the restoration of the names by Isaac, and the contests between the respective shepherds to the exclusive possession of the water, are circumstances that occur among the natives...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 6-17** Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and to religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine...
Read full commentary →

And she gave the savoury meat and the bread, which she had prepared, into the hand of her son Jacob.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And she gave the savoury meat and the bread, which she had prepared, into the hand of her son Jacob....</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 6-17** Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and to religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine...
Read full commentary →

And he came unto his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I; who art thou, my son?

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And he came unto his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I; who art thou, my son?...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God grac...
Read full commentary →

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 18-29** Jacob, with some difficulty, gained his point, and got the blessing. This blessing is in very general terms. No mention is made of the distinguishing mercies in the covenant with Abraham. This might be owing to Isaac having Esau in his mind, though it was Jacob who was before him. He could not be ignorant how Esau had despised the best things. Moreover, his attachment to Esau,...
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And Jacob said unto his father, I am Esau thy firstborn; I have done according as thou badest me: arise, I pray thee, sit and eat of my venison, that thy soul may bless me.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Jacob said unto his father, I am Esau thy firstborn; I have done according as thou badest me: ar...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(19) **Arise **. . . **sit and eat.**—The Hebrews at this time, and for centuries, sat at their meals (1Samuel 20:25). It was from the Romans that they learned to recline at table, as we find was their custom in the Gospels. It is a mistake, moreover, to suppose that Isaac was a bedridden old man, for Jacob bids him arise and seat himself. Nor does he help him, though his sight was weak. It is onl...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 18-29** Jacob, with some difficulty, gained his point, and got the blessing. This blessing is in very general terms. No mention is made of the distinguishing mercies in the covenant with Abraham. This might be owing to Isaac having Esau in his mind, though it was Jacob who was before him. He could not be ignorant how Esau had despised the best things. Moreover, his attachment to Esau,...
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And Isaac said unto his son, How is it that thou hast found it so quickly, my son? And he said, Because the LORD thy God brought it to me. to me: Heb. before me

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Isaac said unto his son, How is it that thou hast found it so quickly, my son? And he said, Beca...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(20) **Because the Lord thy God brought it to me.**—Jacob does not keep up his acting well here, for it was not in accordance with Esau’s character to see anything providential in his success in hunting. This may have helped to arouse Isaac’s suspicions, who immediately proceeds to examine him.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**26-33. Then Abimelech went to him--**As there was a lapse of ninety years between the visit of Abraham and of Isaac, the Abimelech and Phichol spoken of must have been different persons' official titles. Here is another proof of the promise (Ge 12:2) being fulfilled, in an overture of peace being made to him by the king of Gerar. By whatever motive the proposal was dictated--whether fear of his ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 18-29** Jacob, with some difficulty, gained his point, and got the blessing. This blessing is in very general terms. No mention is made of the distinguishing mercies in the covenant with Abraham. This might be owing to Isaac having Esau in his mind, though it was Jacob who was before him. He could not be ignorant how Esau had despised the best things. Moreover, his attachment to Esau,...
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And Isaac said unto Jacob, Come near, I pray thee, that I may feel thee, my son, whether thou be my very son Esau or not.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Isaac said unto Jacob, Come near, I pray thee, that I may feel thee, my son, whether thou be my ...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **Come near . . . that I may feel thee.**—Besides the answer, in a style very different from Esau’s way of thinking, Isaac was surprised at the short delay in bringing the savoury meat; for the game had to be sought at a distance away from the cattle-pastures. Though, too, the voices of the twins had a certain degree of similarity, yet they would also have their peculiarities, and Isaac detec...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**26-33. Then Abimelech went to him--**As there was a lapse of ninety years between the visit of Abraham and of Isaac, the Abimelech and Phichol spoken of must have been different persons' official titles. Here is another proof of the promise (Ge 12:2) being fulfilled, in an overture of peace being made to him by the king of Gerar. By whatever motive the proposal was dictated--whether fear of his ...
Read full commentary →

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 18-29** Jacob, with some difficulty, gained his point, and got the blessing. This blessing is in very general terms. No mention is made of the distinguishing mercies in the covenant with Abraham. This might be owing to Isaac having Esau in his mind, though it was Jacob who was before him. He could not be ignorant how Esau had despised the best things. Moreover, his attachment to Esau,...
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And Jacob went near unto Isaac his father; and he felt him, and said, The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Jacob went near unto Isaac his father; and he felt him, and said, The voice is Jacob's voice, bu...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**26-33. Then Abimelech went to him--**As there was a lapse of ninety years between the visit of Abraham and of Isaac, the Abimelech and Phichol spoken of must have been different persons' official titles. Here is another proof of the promise (Ge 12:2) being fulfilled, in an overture of peace being made to him by the king of Gerar. By whatever motive the proposal was dictated--whether fear of his ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 18-29** Jacob, with some difficulty, gained his point, and got the blessing. This blessing is in very general terms. No mention is made of the distinguishing mercies in the covenant with Abraham. This might be owing to Isaac having Esau in his mind, though it was Jacob who was before him. He could not be ignorant how Esau had despised the best things. Moreover, his attachment to Esau,...
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And he discerned him not, because his hands were hairy, as his brother Esau's hands: so he blessed him.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And he discerned him not, because his hands were hairy, as his brother Esau's hands: so he blessed h...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**26-33. Then Abimelech went to him--**As there was a lapse of ninety years between the visit of Abraham and of Isaac, the Abimelech and Phichol spoken of must have been different persons' official titles. Here is another proof of the promise (Ge 12:2) being fulfilled, in an overture of peace being made to him by the king of Gerar. By whatever motive the proposal was dictated--whether fear of his ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 18-29** Jacob, with some difficulty, gained his point, and got the blessing. This blessing is in very general terms. No mention is made of the distinguishing mercies in the covenant with Abraham. This might be owing to Isaac having Esau in his mind, though it was Jacob who was before him. He could not be ignorant how Esau had despised the best things. Moreover, his attachment to Esau,...
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And he said, Art thou my very son Esau? And he said, I am.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And he said, Art thou my very son Esau? And he said, I am....</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God graciously transforms.<br><br>Key themes ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**26-33. Then Abimelech went to him--**As there was a lapse of ninety years between the visit of Abraham and of Isaac, the Abimelech and Phichol spoken of must have been different persons' official titles. Here is another proof of the promise (Ge 12:2) being fulfilled, in an overture of peace being made to him by the king of Gerar. By whatever motive the proposal was dictated--whether fear of his ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 18-29** Jacob, with some difficulty, gained his point, and got the blessing. This blessing is in very general terms. No mention is made of the distinguishing mercies in the covenant with Abraham. This might be owing to Isaac having Esau in his mind, though it was Jacob who was before him. He could not be ignorant how Esau had despised the best things. Moreover, his attachment to Esau,...
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And he said, Bring it near to me, and I will eat of my son's venison, that my soul may bless thee. And he brought it near to him, and he did eat: and he brought him wine, and he drank.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And he said, Bring it near to me, and I will eat of my son's venison, that my soul may bless thee. A...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**26-33. Then Abimelech went to him--**As there was a lapse of ninety years between the visit of Abraham and of Isaac, the Abimelech and Phichol spoken of must have been different persons' official titles. Here is another proof of the promise (Ge 12:2) being fulfilled, in an overture of peace being made to him by the king of Gerar. By whatever motive the proposal was dictated--whether fear of his ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 18-29** Jacob, with some difficulty, gained his point, and got the blessing. This blessing is in very general terms. No mention is made of the distinguishing mercies in the covenant with Abraham. This might be owing to Isaac having Esau in his mind, though it was Jacob who was before him. He could not be ignorant how Esau had despised the best things. Moreover, his attachment to Esau,...
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And his father Isaac said unto him, Come near now, and kiss me, my son.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And his father Isaac said unto him, Come near now, and kiss me, my son....</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God graciously transforms.<br><b...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(26) **Come near now, and kiss me, my son.**—This was the solemn preparation for the giving of the blessing. Isaac’s suspicions had now quite passed away. He had eaten and drunk, and the time had now come for the decision which son was to inherit the promise.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**26-33. Then Abimelech went to him--**As there was a lapse of ninety years between the visit of Abraham and of Isaac, the Abimelech and Phichol spoken of must have been different persons' official titles. Here is another proof of the promise (Ge 12:2) being fulfilled, in an overture of peace being made to him by the king of Gerar. By whatever motive the proposal was dictated--whether fear of his ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 18-29** Jacob, with some difficulty, gained his point, and got the blessing. This blessing is in very general terms. No mention is made of the distinguishing mercies in the covenant with Abraham. This might be owing to Isaac having Esau in his mind, though it was Jacob who was before him. He could not be ignorant how Esau had despised the best things. Moreover, his attachment to Esau,...
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And he came near, and kissed him: and he smelled the smell of his raiment, and blessed him, and said, See, the smell of my son is as the smell of a field which the LORD hath blessed:

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And he came near, and kissed him: and he smelled the smell of his raiment, and blessed him, and said...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(27) **As the smell of a field.**—From the abundance of aromatic plants, the pastures of Palestine are peculiarly fragrant; but Isaac, deceived by the scent of Esau’s own garments, intended probably to contrast the pure sweetness of one whose life was spent in the open field with the less pleasant odour which Jacob would bring with him from the cattle-shed.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**26-33. Then Abimelech went to him--**As there was a lapse of ninety years between the visit of Abraham and of Isaac, the Abimelech and Phichol spoken of must have been different persons' official titles. Here is another proof of the promise (Ge 12:2) being fulfilled, in an overture of peace being made to him by the king of Gerar. By whatever motive the proposal was dictated--whether fear of his ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 18-29** Jacob, with some difficulty, gained his point, and got the blessing. This blessing is in very general terms. No mention is made of the distinguishing mercies in the covenant with Abraham. This might be owing to Isaac having Esau in his mind, though it was Jacob who was before him. He could not be ignorant how Esau had despised the best things. Moreover, his attachment to Esau,...
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Therefore God give thee of the dew of heaven, and the fatness of the earth, and plenty of corn and wine:

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Therefore God give thee of the dew of heaven, and the fatness of the earth, and plenty of corn and w...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(28) **Therefore God give thee.**—Heb., *And the Elohim give thee. *Here, as not unfrequently is the case, the name Elohim follows immediately upon that of Jehovah. As the blessings of dew and fertile land are the gifts of the God of nature, the use of the title Elohim is in accordance with the general rule. **The fatness of the earth.**—Heb., the *fatnesses: *that is, the fat places. In the count...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**34. Esau ... took to wife--**If the pious feelings of Abraham recoiled from the idea of Isaac forming a matrimonial connection with a Canaanitish woman [Ge 24:3], that devout patriarch himself would be equally opposed to such a union on the part of his children; and we may easily imagine how much his pious heart was wounded, and the family peace destroyed, when his favorite but wayward son broug...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 18-29** Jacob, with some difficulty, gained his point, and got the blessing. This blessing is in very general terms. No mention is made of the distinguishing mercies in the covenant with Abraham. This might be owing to Isaac having Esau in his mind, though it was Jacob who was before him. He could not be ignorant how Esau had despised the best things. Moreover, his attachment to Esau,...
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Let people serve thee, and nations bow down to thee: be lord over thy brethren, and let thy mother's sons bow down to thee: cursed be every one that curseth thee, and blessed be he that blesseth thee.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Let people serve thee, and nations bow down to thee: be lord over thy brethren, and let thy mother's...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(29) **Let people serve thee.**—Heb., *peoples. *Up to this point the blessing had been general, but now Isaac bestows the birthright, carrying with it widespread dominion, precedence over all other members of the family, and special blessedness. The phrases “thy brethren” and “thy mother’s sons” include all nations sprung from Abraham, and all possible offshoots from Isaac’s own descendants. **Cu...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 18-29** Jacob, with some difficulty, gained his point, and got the blessing. This blessing is in very general terms. No mention is made of the distinguishing mercies in the covenant with Abraham. This might be owing to Isaac having Esau in his mind, though it was Jacob who was before him. He could not be ignorant how Esau had despised the best things. Moreover, his attachment to Esau,...
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And it came to pass, as soon as Isaac had made an end of blessing Jacob, and Jacob was yet scarce gone out from the presence of Isaac his father, that Esau his brother came in from his hunting.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And it came to pass, as soon as Isaac had made an end of blessing Jacob, and Jacob was yet scarce go...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 30-40** When Esau understood that Jacob had got the blessing, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry. The day is coming, when those that now make light of the blessings of the covenant, and sell their title to spiritual blessings for that which is of no value, will, in vain, ask urgently for them. Isaac, when made sensible of the deceit practised on him, trembled exceedingly. ...
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And he also had made savoury meat, and brought it unto his father, and said unto his father, Let my father arise, and eat of his son's venison, that thy soul may bless me.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And he also had made savoury meat, and brought it unto his father, and said unto his father, Let my ...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(31) **He also had made.**—Heb., *he also made, *Esau returned just as Jacob was leaving Isaac’s presence. There would still be some considerable delay before the captured game was made into savoury meat

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

CHAPTER 27 Ge 27:1-27. Infirmity of Isaac. **1. when Isaac was old, and his eyes were dim--**He was in his hundred thirty-seventh year; and apprehending death to be near, Isaac prepared to make his last will--an act of the gravest importance, especially as it included the conveyance through a prophetic spirit of the patriarchal blessing.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 30-40** When Esau understood that Jacob had got the blessing, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry. The day is coming, when those that now make light of the blessings of the covenant, and sell their title to spiritual blessings for that which is of no value, will, in vain, ask urgently for them. Isaac, when made sensible of the deceit practised on him, trembled exceedingly. ...
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And Isaac his father said unto him, Who art thou? And he said, I am thy son, thy firstborn Esau.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Isaac his father said unto him, Who art thou? And he said, I am thy son, thy firstborn Esau....</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God gra...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 30-40** When Esau understood that Jacob had got the blessing, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry. The day is coming, when those that now make light of the blessings of the covenant, and sell their title to spiritual blessings for that which is of no value, will, in vain, ask urgently for them. Isaac, when made sensible of the deceit practised on him, trembled exceedingly. ...
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And Isaac trembled very exceedingly , and said, Who? where is he that hath taken venison, and brought it me, and I have eaten of all before thou camest, and have blessed him? yea, and he shall be blessed. trembled: Heb. trembled with a great trembling greatly taken: Heb. hunted

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Isaac trembled very exceedingly, and said, Who? where is he that hath taken venison, and brought...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(33) **Isaac trembled very exceedingly.**—This was not from mere vexation at having been so deceived, and made to give the blessing contrary to his wishes. What Isaac felt was that he had been resisting God. In spite of the prophecy given to the mother, and Esau’s own irreligious character and heathen marriages, he had determined to bestow on him the birthright by an act of his own will; and he ha...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 30-40** When Esau understood that Jacob had got the blessing, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry. The day is coming, when those that now make light of the blessings of the covenant, and sell their title to spiritual blessings for that which is of no value, will, in vain, ask urgently for them. Isaac, when made sensible of the deceit practised on him, trembled exceedingly. ...
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And when Esau heard the words of his father, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry, and said unto his father, Bless me, even me also, O my father.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And when Esau heard the words of his father, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry, and sai...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**4. make ... savory meat--**perhaps to revive and strengthen him for the duty; or rather, "as eating and drinking" were used on all religious occasions, he could not convey the right, till he had eaten of the meat provided for the purpose by him who was to receive the blessing [Adam Clarke] (compare Ge 18:7). **that my soul may bless thee--**It is difficult to imagine him ignorant of the divine...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 30-40** When Esau understood that Jacob had got the blessing, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry. The day is coming, when those that now make light of the blessings of the covenant, and sell their title to spiritual blessings for that which is of no value, will, in vain, ask urgently for them. Isaac, when made sensible of the deceit practised on him, trembled exceedingly. ...
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And he said, Thy brother came with subtilty, and hath taken away thy blessing.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And he said, Thy brother came with subtilty, and hath taken away thy blessing....</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God graciously transforms...
Read full commentary →

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 30-40** When Esau understood that Jacob had got the blessing, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry. The day is coming, when those that now make light of the blessings of the covenant, and sell their title to spiritual blessings for that which is of no value, will, in vain, ask urgently for them. Isaac, when made sensible of the deceit practised on him, trembled exceedingly. ...
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And he said, Is not he rightly named Jacob? for he hath supplanted me these two times: he took away my birthright; and, behold, now he hath taken away my blessing. And he said, Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me? Jacob: that is, A supplanter

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And he said, Is not he rightly named Jacob? for he hath supplanted me these two times: he took away ...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(36) **Is not he rightly named Jacob?**—In thus playing upon his brother’s name, Esau has had a lasting revenge; for the bad sense which he for the first time put upon the word Jacob has adhered to it, no doubt, because Jacob’s own conduct made it only too appropriate. Its right meaning is “one who follows close upon another’s heels.” (See Note on Genesis 25:26.)

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**6-10. Rebekah spake unto Jacob--**She prized the blessing as invaluable; she knew that God intended it for the younger son [Ge 25:23]; and in her anxiety to secure its being conferred on the right object--on one who cared for religion--she acted in the sincerity of faith; but in crooked policy--with unenlightened zeal; on the false principle that the end would sanctify the means.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 30-40** When Esau understood that Jacob had got the blessing, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry. The day is coming, when those that now make light of the blessings of the covenant, and sell their title to spiritual blessings for that which is of no value, will, in vain, ask urgently for them. Isaac, when made sensible of the deceit practised on him, trembled exceedingly. ...
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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? sustained: or, supported

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Isaac answered and said unto Esau, Behold, I have made him thy lord, and all his brethren have I...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**6-10. Rebekah spake unto Jacob--**She prized the blessing as invaluable; she knew that God intended it for the younger son [Ge 25:23]; and in her anxiety to secure its being conferred on the right object--on one who cared for religion--she acted in the sincerity of faith; but in crooked policy--with unenlightened zeal; on the false principle that the end would sanctify the means.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 30-40** When Esau understood that Jacob had got the blessing, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry. The day is coming, when those that now make light of the blessings of the covenant, and sell their title to spiritual blessings for that which is of no value, will, in vain, ask urgently for them. Isaac, when made sensible of the deceit practised on him, trembled exceedingly. ...
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And Esau said unto his father, Hast thou but one blessing, my father? bless me, even me also, O my father. And Esau lifted up his voice, and wept.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Esau said unto his father, Hast thou but one blessing, my father? bless me, even me also, O my f...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(38) **Hast thou but one blessing?**—Only one son could inherit the spiritual prerogatives of the birthright, and the temporal lordship which accompanied it. And even lower earthly blessings would avail little if Esau’s descendants were to be subject to the dominion of the other brother’s race. With some mitigation, then, of his lot Esau must now be content.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**6-10. Rebekah spake unto Jacob--**She prized the blessing as invaluable; she knew that God intended it for the younger son [Ge 25:23]; and in her anxiety to secure its being conferred on the right object--on one who cared for religion--she acted in the sincerity of faith; but in crooked policy--with unenlightened zeal; on the false principle that the end would sanctify the means.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 30-40** When Esau understood that Jacob had got the blessing, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry. The day is coming, when those that now make light of the blessings of the covenant, and sell their title to spiritual blessings for that which is of no value, will, in vain, ask urgently for them. Isaac, when made sensible of the deceit practised on him, trembled exceedingly. ...
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And Isaac his father answered and said unto him, Behold, thy dwelling shall be the fatness of the earth, and of the dew of heaven from above; the fatness: or, of the fatness

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Isaac his father answered and said unto him, Behold, thy dwelling shall be the fatness of the ea...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(39) **Isaac his father answered.**—Unwillingly, and only after repeated entreaty and earnest expostulation, and even tears, upon Esau’s side, does Isaac bring himself to the effort to lessen in any way the painful consequences to his favourite son of his brother having robbed him of the blessing. Plainly, he felt that he had endeavoured to do what was wrong, and was afraid lest he should still be...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**6-10. Rebekah spake unto Jacob--**She prized the blessing as invaluable; she knew that God intended it for the younger son [Ge 25:23]; and in her anxiety to secure its being conferred on the right object--on one who cared for religion--she acted in the sincerity of faith; but in crooked policy--with unenlightened zeal; on the false principle that the end would sanctify the means.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 30-40** When Esau understood that Jacob had got the blessing, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry. The day is coming, when those that now make light of the blessings of the covenant, and sell their title to spiritual blessings for that which is of no value, will, in vain, ask urgently for them. Isaac, when made sensible of the deceit practised on him, trembled exceedingly. ...
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And by thy sword shalt thou live, and shalt serve thy brother; and it shall come to pass when thou shalt have the dominion, that thou shalt break his yoke from off thy neck.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And by thy sword shalt thou live, and shalt serve thy brother; and it shall come to pass when thou s...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(40) **When thou shalt have the dominion.**—This rendering of a rare and difficult Hebrew word is scarcely more than a guess made by two or three ancient Jewish commentators. Its real meaning here, and in Jeremiah 2:31, Hosea 11:12, is *to toss the yoke*—be restless and unquiet. The prophecy of Edom’s subjection to his brother was literally fulfilled, as Idumæa was for ages a mere dependency upon ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**6-10. Rebekah spake unto Jacob--**She prized the blessing as invaluable; she knew that God intended it for the younger son [Ge 25:23]; and in her anxiety to secure its being conferred on the right object--on one who cared for religion--she acted in the sincerity of faith; but in crooked policy--with unenlightened zeal; on the false principle that the end would sanctify the means.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 30-40** When Esau understood that Jacob had got the blessing, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry. The day is coming, when those that now make light of the blessings of the covenant, and sell their title to spiritual blessings for that which is of no value, will, in vain, ask urgently for them. Isaac, when made sensible of the deceit practised on him, trembled exceedingly. ...
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Esau's Anger

And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father blessed him: and Esau said in his heart, The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then will I slay my brother Jacob.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father blessed him: and Esau said in his ...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

JACOB IS SENT AWAY BY HIS FATHER AND MOTHER TO HARAN. (41) **The days of mourning for my father are at hand.**—Esau evidently expected that his father’s death was near, and such also was Isaac’s own expectation (Genesis 27:2); but he recovered, and lived for more than half a century. Perhaps on this account another translation has been suggested, namely, “Days of mourning for my father are at hand...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**11. Jacob said, Esau my brother is a hairy man--**It is remarkable that his scruples were founded, not on the evil of the act, but on the risk and consequences of deception.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 41-46** Esau bore malice to Jacob on account of the blessing he had obtained. Thus he went in the way of Cain, who slew his brother, because he gained that acceptance with God of which he had rendered himself unworthy. Esau aimed to prevent Jacob or his seed from having the dominion, by taking away his life. Men may fret at God's counsels, but cannot change them. To prevent mischief, ...
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And these words of Esau her elder son were told to Rebekah: and she sent and called Jacob her younger son, and said unto him, Behold, thy brother Esau, as touching thee, doth comfort himself, purposing to kill thee.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And these words of Esau her elder son were told to Rebekah: and she sent and called Jacob her younge...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(42) **These words of Esau.**—Though spoken “in his heart,” Esau had evidently made no secret of his evil purpose, and Rebekah therefore determines to send Jacob to her father’s house, not merely for safety, but that he might take a wife from among his own kindred. He was now formally acknowledged as the heir of the birthright and of the promises made to Abraham, and must therefore conform to the ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 41-46** Esau bore malice to Jacob on account of the blessing he had obtained. Thus he went in the way of Cain, who slew his brother, because he gained that acceptance with God of which he had rendered himself unworthy. Esau aimed to prevent Jacob or his seed from having the dominion, by taking away his life. Men may fret at God's counsels, but cannot change them. To prevent mischief, ...
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Now therefore, my son, obey my voice; and arise, flee thou to Laban my brother to Haran;

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Now therefore, my son, obey my voice; and arise, flee thou to Laban my brother to Haran;...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God graciously ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**13-17. and his mother said unto him, Upon me be thy curse--**His conscience being soothed by his mother, preparations were hastily made for carrying out the device; consisting, first, of a kid's flesh, which, made into a ragout, spiced with salt, onions, garlic, and lemon juice, might easily be passed off on a blind old man, with blunted senses, as game; second, of pieces of goat's skin bound on...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 41-46** Esau bore malice to Jacob on account of the blessing he had obtained. Thus he went in the way of Cain, who slew his brother, because he gained that acceptance with God of which he had rendered himself unworthy. Esau aimed to prevent Jacob or his seed from having the dominion, by taking away his life. Men may fret at God's counsels, but cannot change them. To prevent mischief, ...
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And tarry with him a few days, until thy brother's fury turn away;

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And tarry with him a few days, until thy brother's fury turn away;...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God graciously transforms.<br><br>Key...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(44) **A few days.**—Like Esau (Genesis 27:41), Rebekah expected that Isaac’s end was near. Really Jacob was absent for forty years, and while Isaac lived to see him return, Rebekah saw him again no more. Yet this was better than for Esau to slay him, and then, like another Cain, to be banished far away.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**13-17. and his mother said unto him, Upon me be thy curse--**His conscience being soothed by his mother, preparations were hastily made for carrying out the device; consisting, first, of a kid's flesh, which, made into a ragout, spiced with salt, onions, garlic, and lemon juice, might easily be passed off on a blind old man, with blunted senses, as game; second, of pieces of goat's skin bound on...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 41-46** Esau bore malice to Jacob on account of the blessing he had obtained. Thus he went in the way of Cain, who slew his brother, because he gained that acceptance with God of which he had rendered himself unworthy. Esau aimed to prevent Jacob or his seed from having the dominion, by taking away his life. Men may fret at God's counsels, but cannot change them. To prevent mischief, ...
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Until thy brother's anger turn away from thee, and he forget that which thou hast done to him: then I will send, and fetch thee from thence: why should I be deprived also of you both in one day?

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Until thy brother's anger turn away from thee, and he forget that which thou hast done to him: then ...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
Read full commentary →

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**13-17. and his mother said unto him, Upon me be thy curse--**His conscience being soothed by his mother, preparations were hastily made for carrying out the device; consisting, first, of a kid's flesh, which, made into a ragout, spiced with salt, onions, garlic, and lemon juice, might easily be passed off on a blind old man, with blunted senses, as game; second, of pieces of goat's skin bound on...
Read full commentary →

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 41-46** Esau bore malice to Jacob on account of the blessing he had obtained. Thus he went in the way of Cain, who slew his brother, because he gained that acceptance with God of which he had rendered himself unworthy. Esau aimed to prevent Jacob or his seed from having the dominion, by taking away his life. Men may fret at God's counsels, but cannot change them. To prevent mischief, ...
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And Rebekah said to Isaac, I am weary of my life because of the daughters of Heth: if Jacob take a wife of the daughters of Heth, such as these which are of the daughters of the land, what good shall my life do me?

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Rebekah said to Isaac, I am weary of my life because of the daughters of Heth: if Jacob take a w...</strong> This passage belongs to the Jacob narratives which demonstrate God's sovereign election overriding human merit and the transformation of a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The Jacob cycle shows how divine purposes advance through flawed individuals whom God...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(46) **Rebekah said to Isaac.**—With this begins a new act. In the previous five verses we had the general results of Rebekah’s guile: we have now the special consequence of Jacob’s departure for Haran. Upon Rebekah’s communication to Isaac follows his decision in the next chapter. In the Hebrew there is no break from the beginning of Genesis 27 to the end of Genesis 27:9 of Genesis 28. **Ellicott...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**13-17. and his mother said unto him, Upon me be thy curse--**His conscience being soothed by his mother, preparations were hastily made for carrying out the device; consisting, first, of a kid's flesh, which, made into a ragout, spiced with salt, onions, garlic, and lemon juice, might easily be passed off on a blind old man, with blunted senses, as game; second, of pieces of goat's skin bound on...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 41-46** Esau bore malice to Jacob on account of the blessing he had obtained. Thus he went in the way of Cain, who slew his brother, because he gained that acceptance with God of which he had rendered himself unworthy. Esau aimed to prevent Jacob or his seed from having the dominion, by taking away his life. Men may fret at God's counsels, but cannot change them. To prevent mischief, ...
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