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Book of Genesis - Chapter 26 - Verse 7

26:7
And the men of the place asked him of his wife; and he said, She is my sister: for he feared to say, She is my wife; lest, said he, the men of the place should kill me for Rebekah; because she was fair to look upon.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Genesis, we see the story of Isaac and Rebekah as they traveled to a new land. When they arrived, Isaac was asked about his relationship with Rebekah, and out of fear, he said she was his sister rather than his wife. This decision was made to protect himself from potential harm, as he believed that if the men of the place knew Rebekah was his wife, they might kill him in order to have her for themselves. This verse highlights the importance of trust in relationships and the lengths to which people will go to ensure their safety. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of deception and the need to always be honest in our interactions with others.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the Book of Genesis, there is a clear example of deception by the patriarch Isaac. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the consequences of fear and lack of trust in God's protection. Isaac is afraid that the men in Gerar will kill him in order to take his beautiful wife, Rebekah. So, he tells them that she is his sister instead of his wife. This act of deception reveals Isaac's lack of faith that God will protect him and his wife in a foreign land. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of trying to manipulate situations instead of relying on God's guidance and protection. Word studies on the phrase "fair to look upon" further emphasize Rebekah's beauty, which plays a central role in the events that unfold later in the narrative. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty, trust, and faith in God's providence in all circumstances.

American Standard Version

and the men of the place asked him of his wife; and he said, She is my sister: for he feared to say, My wife; lest, [said he], the men of the place should kill me for Rebekah; because she was fair to look upon.
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