Genesis 27:1-9

1 When Isaac was old, his eyesight was poor, so he could not see clearly. One day he called his older son Esau to him and said, "Son." Esau answered, "Here I am."

2 Isaac said, "I am old and don't know when I might die.

3 So take your bow and arrows and go hunting in the field for an animal for me to eat.

4 When you prepare the tasty food that I love, bring it to me, and I will eat. Then I will bless you before I die."

5 So Esau went out in the field to hunt. Rebekah was listening as Isaac said this to his son Esau.

6 She said to her son Jacob, "Listen, I heard your father saying to your brother Esau,

7 'Kill an animal and prepare some tasty food for me to eat. Then I will bless you in the presence of the Lord before I die.'

8 So obey me, my son, and do what I tell you.

9 Go out to our goats and bring me two of the best young ones. I will prepare them just the way your father likes them.

Genesis 27:1-9 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO GENESIS 27

In this chapter we are informed, that Isaac, being old and dim sighted, sent for Esau to get him venison, that he might eat of it, and bless him before he died, Ge 27:1-4; that Rebekah hearing of this formed a scheme for Jacob to get the blessing before him, which she communicated to Jacob, to which he at first objected, but afterwards complied, Ge 27:5-17; and also how that he succeeded in the attempt, and got the blessing from his brother, Ge 27:18-29; and that this was confirmed to him by his father, even when his mistake was discovered upon Esau's coming, Ge 27:30-33; which occasioned a most bitter cry in Esau, a severe reflection on his brother, and an earnest expostulation with his father for a blessing, which he obtained, Ge 27:34-40; the consequence of this were hatred in Esau to Jacob, and an intention to kill him, which Rebekah hearing of, advised Jacob to flee to her brother Laban, Ge 27:41-45; and to facilitate this, complains to Isaac of Esau's wives, and suggests, that should Jacob marry among the same people, it would add to the distress of their lives; and therefore hints it to him, that it was necessary and proper he should go to her family for a wife, Ge 27:46; and whether Isaac sent him, as the following chapter shows.