Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical narrative, the theme of parental partiality is vividly illustrated in the account of Rebekah and her sons, Esau and Jacob. Rebekah, the wife of Isaac and mother of the twin brothers, is depicted as having a clear preference for her younger son, Jacob, over Esau. This partiality plays a significant role in the unfolding of events that shape the history of the Israelite people.
The account of Rebekah's favoritism is primarily found in the Book of Genesis. From the outset, the Bible notes the differing affections of Isaac and Rebekah for their sons.
Genesis 25:28 states, "Isaac loved Esau because he had a taste for wild game, but Rebekah loved Jacob." This verse sets the stage for the ensuing family dynamics, highlighting the division in parental affection.
Rebekah's partiality is further demonstrated in the pivotal episode of Jacob's deception to receive Isaac's blessing, which was intended for Esau, the firstborn. In
Genesis 27, Rebekah orchestrates a plan for Jacob to impersonate Esau and receive the blessing from his blind father, Isaac. She instructs Jacob to fetch two young goats so she can prepare a meal for Isaac, and she dresses Jacob in Esau's garments to complete the ruse.
Genesis 27:13 records Rebekah's words to Jacob: "My son, let the curse fall on me. Just obey my voice and go get them for me."
Rebekah's actions reveal her deep-seated preference for Jacob and her willingness to go to great lengths to secure his future. Her favoritism is not merely a matter of affection but also involves active intervention in the divine promise and family inheritance. This partiality has significant consequences, leading to strife between the brothers and ultimately resulting in Jacob's flight to Haran to escape Esau's wrath.
The narrative of Rebekah's favoritism is a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges within family relationships. It underscores the potential for parental partiality to influence the course of events and affect the lives of children in profound ways. The account of Rebekah and Jacob serves as a cautionary tale about the impact of favoritism and the importance of impartiality in parental love and guidance.
Nave's Topical Index
Genesis 27:6-17And Rebekah spoke to Jacob her son, saying, Behold, I heard your father speak to Esau your brother, saying,
Nave's Topical Index
Library
Chapter xxv
... that these parents had waited twenty years for children; cf. ... Still, on the whole,
a measure of partiality was involved on the part of both parents. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxv.htm
Adonijah
... fact that the future well-being of children depends largely on ... that his parents were
guilty of partiality and indulgence ... on the part of the parents had taken ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/adonijah.htm
Resources
Why did Jesus say, “Let the little children come to me”? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are indigo children? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about raising children? | GotQuestions.orgChildren: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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