Genesis 27:25 - He said, “Bring it near to me, and I will eat of my son’s venison, that my soul may bless you.” He brought it near to him, and he ate. He brought him wine, and he drank.

Generated Verse: Genesis 27:25

What does "Genesis 27:25" mean?


This verse is part of the story of Jacob deceiving his blind father, Isaac, to receive the blessing meant for his older brother, Esau. Let's break down the meaning:

"He said, “Bring it near to me, and I will eat of my son’s venison, that my soul may bless you.” Isaac is speaking to who he believes is Esau (but is actually Jacob in disguise). He's asking for the venison (deer meat) that he thinks Esau hunted. The key point here is "that my soul may bless you." In that time, a father's blessing, especially the firstborn's blessing, was considered a powerful and prophetic declaration that would determine the son's future success and inheritance. Isaac wanted the experience of enjoying the venison (a sensory connection to the hunt and the son) to put him in the right frame of mind to pronounce this important blessing.

"He brought it near to him, and he ate." Jacob, pretending to be Esau, brings the prepared venison (which he likely prepared himself with his mother's help). Isaac eats it, believing it's from Esau's hunt.

"He brought him wine, and he drank." After the venison, Jacob also brings Isaac wine. The wine would have further relaxed Isaac and added to the sensory experience he associated with Esau. It's likely meant to further convince Isaac that he is indeed blessing Esau.

In summary, the verse highlights the following:

Isaac's desire for a sensory experience to prompt the blessing: He wanted to taste and enjoy the venison before bestowing the blessing.
Jacob's deception: By providing the venison and wine, Jacob is actively furthering his deception, making Isaac believe he is Esau.
The importance of the blessing: The verse underscores the immense significance of the blessing in that culture, enough to motivate Jacob to engage in such elaborate deception.

The verse is a pivotal moment in the story, setting the stage for Jacob to receive the blessing that was intended for Esau, with long-lasting consequences for the family and the future of the Israelites.

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