Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Genesis - Chapter 25 - Verse 28

25:28
And Isaac loved Esau, because he did eat of his venison: but Rebekah loved Jacob.

Meaning

In this verse, we see the dynamics of a family relationship playing out in the story of Isaac, Rebekah, Esau, and Jacob. The verse reveals a difference in parental favoritism towards their sons; Isaac loved Esau because he enjoyed the game that Esau brought him, while Rebekah loved Jacob. This partiality led to a division within the family, which would later have significant consequences for their descendants. It highlights the importance of treating each child equally and the potential consequences of showing favoritism. The verse serves as a reminder of the complexities of family dynamics and the impact that parental favoritism can have on the relationships between siblings.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the Book of Genesis, we see the contrasting affections of Isaac and Rebekah towards their sons, Esau and Jacob. Isaac favored Esau because of his skill in hunting and the delicious meat he brought home, showing a preference for his physical abilities. On the other hand, Rebekah favored Jacob, potentially due to his quiet and obedient nature, as well as the fact that he stayed close to home. This verse highlights the dynamics within the family and the different qualities each parent valued in their children. The theological interpretation of this verse could suggest that even within families, individuals may have different strengths and weaknesses, and it is important for parents to recognize and appreciate these differences. Word studies on the terms "loved" and "venison" could lead to a deeper understanding of the emotions and actions described in this passage, shedding light on the complexities of human relationships and family dynamics.

American Standard Version

Now Isaac loved Esau, because he did eat of his venison: and Rebekah loved Jacob.
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