Genesis 27:11

Jacob answered his mother Rebekah, "Look, my brother Esau is a hairy man, but I am smooth-skinned.

Study Bible

Jacob answered his mother Rebekah
This phrase highlights the familial relationship and the dynamics at play. Jacob, whose name in Hebrew (יַעֲקֹב, Ya'akov) can mean "he grasps the heel" or "supplanter," is responding to his mother, Rebekah. Rebekah, whose name in Hebrew (רִבְקָה, Rivkah) means "to tie firmly" or "a noose," is orchestrating a plan to secure the blessing for Jacob. This interaction underscores the theme of family influence and the fulfillment of God's prophecy to Rebekah that "the older will serve the younger" (Genesis 25:23). The Hebrew culture placed significant emphasis on the mother's role in guiding and shaping the future of her children, and Rebekah's actions reflect her belief in God's promise.

Look
The word "look" is a call for attention and consideration. In Hebrew, the word used is often "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which means "behold" or "see." It is a term that invites the listener to pay close attention to what follows. Jacob is drawing Rebekah's attention to a significant obstacle in their plan. This word sets the stage for the contrast between Jacob and Esau, emphasizing the physical differences that could potentially thwart their scheme.

my brother Esau
Esau, whose name in Hebrew (עֵשָׂו, Esav) is related to the word "hairy" or "rough," is Jacob's twin brother. The mention of "my brother Esau" serves to remind the reader of the sibling rivalry that has been a central theme since their birth. Esau, as the firstborn, was entitled to the birthright and blessing, yet Jacob, through Rebekah's guidance, seeks to obtain it. This phrase also highlights the tension and complexity of their relationship, which is a recurring motif throughout the narrative.

is a hairy man
The description of Esau as "a hairy man" is significant in the context of the story. The Hebrew word for "hairy" is "שָׂעִיר" (sa'ir), which not only describes Esau's physical appearance but also connects to his identity and destiny. In ancient Near Eastern culture, physical traits were often seen as indicative of one's character or fate. Esau's hairiness is a distinguishing feature that sets him apart from Jacob and becomes a critical element in the deception that follows.

but I am a smooth man
Jacob's self-description as "a smooth man" contrasts sharply with Esau's hairiness. The Hebrew word for "smooth" is "חָלָק" (chalak), which can also mean "slippery" or "deceptive." This contrast not only highlights the physical differences between the brothers but also foreshadows the cunning and deceptive nature of Jacob's actions. The smoothness of Jacob's skin becomes a pivotal point in the narrative, as it necessitates the use of goat skins to mimic Esau's hairiness, further illustrating the lengths to which Rebekah and Jacob will go to secure the blessing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob
The younger son of Isaac and Rebekah, who is known for his cunning and strategic thinking. In Genesis 27, he is involved in deceiving his father to receive the blessing meant for his brother Esau.

2. Rebekah
The wife of Isaac and mother of Jacob and Esau. She plays a pivotal role in orchestrating the deception to ensure Jacob receives the blessing.

3. Esau
The elder son of Isaac and Rebekah, known for his hunting skills and impulsive nature. He is the intended recipient of Isaac's blessing.

4. Isaac
The patriarch and father of Jacob and Esau, who is old and nearly blind at this point in the account. He intends to bless Esau, his firstborn.

5. The Deception
The event where Jacob, guided by Rebekah, deceives Isaac into giving him the blessing meant for Esau.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Deception
Deception, even with seemingly good intentions, leads to broken relationships and long-term consequences. Jacob's actions resulted in family strife and personal exile.

God's Sovereignty and Human Responsibility
While God's plans are sovereign, human actions still carry responsibility. Rebekah and Jacob's actions fulfilled God's prophecy, but they were accountable for their deceit.

The Importance of Spiritual Discernment
Isaac's physical blindness is symbolic of a lack of spiritual discernment. Believers are called to seek God's wisdom to discern His will and avoid being misled.

The Value of Spiritual Blessings
Esau's disregard for his birthright serves as a warning to value spiritual blessings over immediate gratification. Believers should prioritize eternal over temporal gains.

Family Dynamics and Favoritism
Favoritism within families can lead to division and conflict. Isaac's preference for Esau and Rebekah's for Jacob contributed to the deception and its fallout.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jacob and Esau challenge us to consider the long-term consequences of our actions, especially when they involve deception?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are spiritually discerning, like Isaac should have been, to avoid being misled in our own lives?

3. How does the account of Jacob and Esau illustrate the tension between God's sovereignty and human responsibility?

4. Reflect on a time when you prioritized immediate gratification over long-term spiritual blessings. What did you learn from that experience?

5. How can we address and prevent favoritism in our own families or communities to promote unity and love?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:23
This verse provides context for the events in Genesis 27, as God tells Rebekah that the older will serve the younger, foreshadowing Jacob's eventual dominance over Esau.

Hebrews 12:16-17
This passage warns against being like Esau, who for a single meal sold his birthright, highlighting the spiritual implications of Esau's choices and the value of spiritual blessings.

Romans 9:10-13
Paul references Jacob and Esau to illustrate God's sovereign choice, emphasizing that God's purposes are not based on human actions but on His calling.