Genesis 27:26

Then his father Isaac said to him, "Please come near and kiss me, my son."

Study Bible

Then his father Isaac said to him
This phrase introduces the speaker, Isaac, who is a patriarch in the lineage of Abraham. Isaac's role as a father is significant in the biblical narrative, as he is the son of promise through whom God's covenant with Abraham is continued. The Hebrew root for "father" is "אָב" (av), which not only denotes a biological relationship but also a position of authority and blessing. Isaac's words here are pivotal, as they set the stage for the blessing that is about to be given, a blessing that carries the weight of divine promise and familial inheritance.

Please come near
The invitation to "come near" is both physical and relational. In the Hebrew context, proximity often symbolizes intimacy and trust. The Hebrew word "קָרַב" (qarav) means to approach or draw near, and it is frequently used in the context of worship and sacrifice, indicating a closeness to God. Here, Isaac's request for Esau (though it is Jacob in disguise) to come near is laden with the expectation of a personal and significant interaction, one that will culminate in the bestowal of a blessing.

and kiss me
The act of kissing in ancient Near Eastern culture was a sign of respect, affection, and allegiance. The Hebrew word "נָשַׁק" (nashaq) can mean to kiss, but it also carries connotations of attachment and loyalty. In this context, the kiss is a gesture that precedes the blessing, symbolizing the bond between father and son. It is a moment of vulnerability and trust, as Isaac relies on his senses to identify his son, unaware of the deception taking place.

my son
The phrase "my son" is a term of endearment and recognition. In Hebrew, "בֵּן" (ben) signifies not only a biological offspring but also an heir. This term underscores the familial relationship and the expectation of passing on the covenantal blessing. Isaac's use of "my son" reflects his intention to confer upon Esau (Jacob, in disguise) the rights and responsibilities that come with being the firstborn, a role of great significance in the biblical narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaac
The son of Abraham and Sarah, Isaac is a patriarch of Israel. In this passage, he is elderly and blind, preparing to bless his son.

2. Jacob
The younger son of Isaac and Rebekah, Jacob is involved in deceiving his father to receive the blessing meant for his brother Esau.

3. Esau
The elder twin brother of Jacob, Esau is the rightful recipient of Isaac's blessing but is deceived by Jacob and Rebekah.

4. Rebekah
The wife of Isaac and mother of Esau and Jacob, Rebekah orchestrates the deception to ensure Jacob receives the blessing.

5. The Blessing
A significant event in the patriarchal accounts, the blessing is a prophetic and spiritual pronouncement that carries the weight of God's promise and favor.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Blessing
In biblical times, a father's blessing was not just a formality but a powerful declaration of God's favor and purpose. We should recognize the power of our words and the importance of speaking blessings over others.

Deception and Its Consequences
Jacob's deception, though it fulfilled God's prophecy, led to significant family strife and personal consequences. This teaches us that while God's plans prevail, our actions have real-world impacts.

God's Sovereignty and Human Responsibility
The account illustrates the tension between divine sovereignty and human actions. While God had a plan for Jacob, the means by which it was achieved involved human deceit, reminding us to trust God's timing and methods.

Family Dynamics and Favoritism
The favoritism shown by Isaac and Rebekah towards their sons led to division and conflict. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of favoritism in families and the need for fairness and love.

Seeking God's Will
Instead of resorting to manipulation, we should seek God's will through prayer and trust in His promises, knowing that His plans are perfect and His timing is best.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of blessing in Genesis 27:26 reflect the cultural and spiritual significance of blessings in the Old Testament?

2. In what ways can the account of Jacob and Esau's blessing inform our understanding of God's sovereignty and human responsibility?

3. How can we apply the lessons of family dynamics and favoritism from this passage to our own family relationships today?

4. What are some practical ways we can speak blessings over others in our lives, and how might this impact our relationships?

5. How does the account of Jacob and Esau connect to the New Testament teachings on God's election and grace, and what does this mean for our faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:23
This verse provides context for the sibling rivalry, as God tells Rebekah that the older will serve the younger, foreshadowing the events of Genesis 27.

Hebrews 11:20
This verse highlights the faith of Isaac in blessing Jacob and Esau, emphasizing the importance of the blessing in the lineage of faith.

Romans 9:10-13
Paul references Jacob and Esau to illustrate God's sovereign choice, connecting the events of Genesis 27 to the broader theme of divine election.