Genesis 27:43

So now, my son, obey my voice and flee at once to my brother Laban in Haran.

Study Bible

So now
This phrase indicates a sense of urgency and immediacy. In the Hebrew text, the word "now" (עַתָּה, 'attah) often signifies a pivotal moment requiring immediate action. Rebekah is addressing Jacob with a sense of urgency, emphasizing the critical nature of the situation. This urgency reflects the gravity of Esau's anger and the potential danger Jacob faces, underscoring the need for swift action.

my son
Rebekah's use of "my son" (בְּנִי, beni) is both affectionate and authoritative. It highlights the close maternal bond and the protective instincts she has for Jacob. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, family ties were paramount, and a mother's guidance was often seen as divinely inspired. Rebekah's words carry the weight of both love and command, urging Jacob to heed her advice.

obey my voice
The phrase "obey my voice" (שְׁמַע בְּקֹלִי, shema beqoli) is a direct command. The Hebrew word "shema" means to hear or listen, but it also implies obedience. This reflects the biblical principle that true listening involves action. Rebekah is not merely asking Jacob to hear her words but to act upon them, emphasizing the importance of obedience to parental guidance, which is a recurring theme in Scripture.

and flee
The word "flee" (בְּרַח, berach) suggests a rapid escape from danger. In the biblical narrative, fleeing often indicates a temporary but necessary separation to preserve life or fulfill God's purposes. Jacob's flight is not just a physical escape but a step in God's larger plan for his life. This action parallels other biblical figures who fled to fulfill divine purposes, such as Moses and David.

at once
The immediacy of "at once" (לְךָ, lekha) reinforces the urgency of the situation. The Hebrew conveys a sense of immediacy and determination. Rebekah's insistence on immediate action underscores the peril Jacob faces and the need for prompt obedience. This urgency reflects the broader biblical theme of responding promptly to God's call or guidance.

to my brother Laban
Rebekah directs Jacob to her brother Laban, highlighting the importance of family alliances in the ancient world. Laban, residing in Haran, represents a place of refuge and safety. This familial connection is crucial, as it provides Jacob with a support network in a foreign land. The mention of Laban also foreshadows future events in Jacob's life, as he will spend many years with Laban, shaping his character and destiny.

in Haran
Haran is a significant location in biblical history, situated in the region of Paddan-aram. It was a center of trade and culture, and it holds historical importance as the place where Abraham's family settled before moving to Canaan. Haran represents both a physical and spiritual journey for Jacob, as he leaves his home to embark on a path that will ultimately lead to the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham. This journey is emblematic of the pilgrim life of faith, where believers are called to trust in God's provision and guidance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
The mother of Jacob and Esau, who orchestrates Jacob's escape to protect him from Esau's wrath after Jacob deceitfully receives Isaac's blessing.

2. Jacob
The son of Isaac and Rebekah, who is instructed by his mother to flee to Haran to avoid Esau's vengeance.

3. Esau
Jacob's brother, who is angered by Jacob's deception and plans to kill him after their father Isaac's death.

4. Laban
Rebekah's brother, living in Haran, who becomes a refuge for Jacob.

5. Haran
The place where Jacob is sent to escape Esau's anger, and where he will eventually find his wives and build his family.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Godly Counsel
Rebekah's instruction to Jacob to flee is a reminder of the importance of heeding wise and godly counsel, especially in times of danger or moral decision-making.

God's Sovereignty in Family Dynamics
Despite the deception and conflict within Isaac's family, God's sovereign plan continues to unfold. This teaches us to trust God's overarching plan even amidst family strife.

Seeking Refuge and Safety
Jacob's flight to Haran illustrates the biblical principle of seeking refuge and safety when faced with threats, trusting that God provides places and people for our protection.

The Consequences of Deception
Jacob's need to flee is a direct result of his deceit. This serves as a cautionary tale about the long-term consequences of dishonest actions.

God's Faithfulness in Uncertainty
Jacob's journey to Haran, though fraught with uncertainty, is undergirded by God's faithfulness, reminding us to trust in God's promises even when the path is unclear.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's instruction to Jacob reflect the importance of listening to wise counsel in our own lives?

2. In what ways does Jacob's journey to Haran demonstrate God's protection and provision, and how can we apply this understanding to our own life situations?

3. How do the events in Genesis 27:43 connect to the broader account of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob?

4. What lessons can we learn from the consequences of Jacob's deception, and how can we apply these lessons to our own ethical decision-making?

5. How does the account of Jacob's flight to Haran encourage us to trust in God's faithfulness during times of uncertainty and transition?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 28:1-5
Isaac sends Jacob to Paddan-aram to find a wife, further emphasizing the importance of Jacob's journey to Haran.

Genesis 31:3
God instructs Jacob to return to the land of his fathers, showing the completion of his journey and God's faithfulness.

Hebrews 11:20-21
Highlights the faith of Isaac and Jacob, showing the broader account of God's promises through the patriarchs.

Psalm 121:7-8
Speaks of God's protection, which can be related to Jacob's journey and God's providence in his life.