Genesis 27:17 - She gave the savory food and the bread, which she had prepared, into the hand of her son Jacob.

Generated Verse: Genesis 27:17

What does "Genesis 27:17" mean?


Genesis 27:17 describes a pivotal moment in the story of Jacob and Esau. Here's a breakdown of its meaning and significance:

"She" refers to Rebekah. She's Isaac's wife and Jacob's mother. Rebekah favors Jacob over his twin brother, Esau.

"The savory food and the bread, which she had prepared": This is the key element. Rebekah has just cooked a meal that is meant to imitate the kind of food Isaac loves and expects Esau to bring him. The purpose of this food is to trick Isaac. Esau is the older twin and thus entitled to receive the birthright blessing from Isaac. However, Rebekah and Jacob want the birthright blessing for Jacob.

"Into the hand of her son Jacob": Rebekah is now handing Jacob the prepared food. This is the moment where she's setting the plan into motion. Jacob is now the one who will impersonate Esau and attempt to receive the blessing from his blind and aging father, Isaac.

In essence, this verse signifies:

The active role Rebekah is taking: She is not passive in this situation; she is orchestrating the deception.
The beginning of the deceit: This is the starting point for Jacob's act of impersonation, which will have significant consequences for the entire family.
The contrast to Esau: The food is supposed to come from Esau, and the fact that Jacob is receiving it shows the manipulation happening.

This verse is a turning point in the narrative, highlighting the themes of deception, favoritism, and the struggle for inheritance.

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