(The Lord speaking is red text)
And Isaac intreated the LORD for his wife, because she [was] barren: and the LORD was intreated of him, and Rebekah his wife conceived.
Yitz'chak prayed to ADONAI on behalf of his wife, because she was childless. ADONAI heeded his prayer, and Rivkah became pregnant.
Later, Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was barren. And the LORD heard his prayer, and his wife Rebekah conceived.
And Isaac entreated Jehovah for his wife, because she was barren: and Jehovah was entreated of him, and Rebekah his wife conceived.
And Isaac{H3327} intreated{H6279} the LORD{H3068} for{H5227} his wife{H802}, because she was barren{H6135}: and the LORD{H3068} was intreated{H6279} of him, and Rebekah{H7259} his wife{H802} conceived{H2029}.
Genesis 25:21 is a verse that falls within the broader narrative of the patriarchal stories in the Book of Genesis, specifically focusing on the life of Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah. The historical context of this verse is set within the ancient Near Eastern world, where the lineage and continuation of the family line were of utmost importance, particularly for the chosen line of Abraham through which God promised to bless all nations (Genesis 12:3).
The verse specifically addresses the issue of fertility, a common theme in the biblical narrative, as the ability to bear children was seen as a divine blessing. In this case, Isaac's wife Rebekah is barren, which would have been a source of great personal anguish and social concern, as offspring were necessary to inherit property, continue the family line, and fulfill God's promises.
The theological theme highlighted here is the power and providence of God in human affairs, particularly regarding childbirth. Isaac's response to his wife's barrenness is to pray to the Lord, demonstrating his faith and reliance on God. The verse underscores the efficacy of prayer and God's attentiveness to the needs and supplications of His people. In answer to Isaac's prayers, God intervenes and Rebekah conceives, which not only resolves the immediate concern but also sets the stage for the birth of their twin sons, Esau and Jacob, who will play significant roles in the unfolding story of God's covenant people. This event reinforces the theme of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and His active participation in the lives of the patriarchs and matriarchs.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)