Genesis 25:22

KJV

And the children struggled together within her; and she said, If [it be] so, why [am] I thus? And she went to enquire of the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the children {H1121} struggled together {H7533} within her {H7130}; and she said {H559}, If it be so, why am I thus {H2088}? And she went {H3212} to enquire {H1875} of the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The children fought with each other inside her so much that she said, "If it's going to be like this, why go on living?" So she went to inquire of ADONAI,

Berean Standard Bible

But the children inside her struggled with each other, and she said, “Why is this happening to me?” So Rebekah went to inquire of the LORD,

American Standard Version

And the children struggled together within her; and she said, If it be so, wherefore do I live? And she went to inquire of Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 25:22 captures a pivotal and perplexing moment in Rebekah's pregnancy, as the twin sons within her womb engage in a violent struggle, causing her profound distress. This verse vividly portrays her theological questioning of her very existence in such a state and her subsequent faithful and decisive action to seek divine understanding directly from the Lord, thereby highlighting her deep piety and foreshadowing the future conflict and distinct national destinies that would emerge from her sons, Jacob and Esau.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 25:22 is situated within the patriarchal narratives, specifically following Isaac's marriage to Rebekah and his fervent prayer for her barrenness, which God graciously answered after twenty years ([Genesis 25:21](/genesis/25-21 "Isaac's Prayer for Rebekah's Barrenness")). This verse immediately precedes the prophetic revelation concerning the two nations within Rebekah and the divine election of the younger over the elder ([Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "God's Prophecy of Two Nations")), setting the stage for the birth of Jacob and Esau, the future progenitors of Israel and Edom. The internal struggle described here is the narrative catalyst for Rebekah's inquiry, which in turn leads to the crucial prophecy that shapes the subsequent history of these two nations and their descendants throughout the biblical narrative.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the ability to bear children, particularly sons, was paramount for a woman's status and for the continuation of the family line and covenant promises. Barrenness was often perceived as a curse or divine disfavor, making Isaac's prayer and Rebekah's pregnancy a significant blessing. The concept of seeking divine counsel for perplexing or ominous events was also common, though the method varied (e.g., dreams, omens, priestly consultation). Rebekah's direct "enquiry of the LORD" highlights a personal, intimate relationship with God, characteristic of the patriarchal period, where God communicated directly with His chosen individuals. The intense struggle within her womb would have been profoundly unsettling, not merely as physical discomfort but as a sign of something spiritually significant, prompting her to seek a divine explanation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Election**, as God's plan for Jacob and Esau is revealed even before their birth, demonstrating His preordained purposes independent of human merit or action, a theme further developed in [Romans 9:10-13](/romans/9-10-13 "God's Sovereign Choice of Jacob"). It also highlights **Human Suffering and Inquiry**, showing that even those blessed by God experience confusion and distress, and models a faithful response: turning to God for understanding rather than succumbing to despair. Furthermore, the verse introduces the theme of **Conflict and Rivalry**, foreshadowing the lifelong struggle between the brothers and the enduring national animosity between their descendants, Israel and Edom, a conflict rooted in their very beginnings and traced through books like [Numbers 20](/numbers/20 "The Conflict with Edom") and [Obadiah 1](/obadiah/1 "The Prophecy Against Edom").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 25:22 details a crucial moment in Rebekah's pregnancy, revealing both her physical discomfort and her spiritual depth.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **children (Hebrew, _bên'_):** From H1121, this word broadly refers to sons, but in this context, it specifically denotes the two male offspring within Rebekah's womb. The plural form emphasizes the presence of more than one, setting the stage for the twin birth. The very use of "children" rather than simply "fetuses" or "babies" implies a recognition of their distinct identities and potential, even in utero, which is crucial for the subsequent prophetic revelation of their national destinies.
* **struggled together (Hebrew, _râtsats'_):** From H7533, this primitive root means "to crack in pieces," "to bruise," "to crush," or "to oppress." The reflexive form used here (`vayitrotzatzu`) intensifies the meaning, indicating a violent, mutual, and almost destructive internal conflict. This was far beyond typical fetal movement; it was a profound, distressing, and potentially harmful struggle, powerfully conveying the intense rivalry and opposition that would characterize the relationship between Jacob and Esau and their respective nations. The word choice itself foreshadows the "bruising" and "crushing" that would occur between their descendants.
* **thus (Hebrew, _zeh'_):** From H2088, this demonstrative pronoun, "this" or "that," is used here in Rebekah's lament, "why am I thus?" (לָמָּה זֶּה אָנֹכִי). It points to her current state of being, encompassing not just the physical discomfort but the profound perplexity and existential questioning arising from the inexplicable and violent struggle within her. Her question is not merely about pain but about the very meaning or purpose of her life in such a distressing and confusing condition, suggesting a theological rather than purely physiological inquiry.
* **enquire (Hebrew, _dârash'_):** From H1875, this primitive root means "to tread or frequent," and by implication, "to follow (for pursuit or search)," "to seek or ask," and specifically "to worship" or "to consult." When used with "the LORD" (YHWH), as here (`darash YHWH`), it signifies a diligent, earnest, and often formal seeking of divine revelation, guidance, or instruction. It implies a spiritual consultation, typically through prayer, prophetic means, or priestly inquiry, demonstrating a deep trust in God's accessibility and His capacity to provide answers to life's profound mysteries.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the children struggled together within her":** This opening clause immediately establishes the central conflict. The use of "children" (Hebrew _bên_) highlights their distinct identities even before birth, while the verb "struggled together" (Hebrew _râtsats_) conveys a violent, almost crushing, internal conflict. This was not typical fetal activity but an intense, disruptive agitation, profoundly distressing to Rebekah and indicative of a deeper, preordained opposition between the unborn twins. This struggle within the womb serves as a powerful microcosm of the lifelong rivalry between Jacob and Esau and the eventual national conflict between their descendants, Israel and Edom.
* **"and she said, If [it be] so, why [am] I thus?":** Faced with such inexplicable and distressing internal turmoil, Rebekah expresses a profound lament. Her question, "why am I thus?" (Hebrew `lamah zeh anokhi`), is not merely a cry of physical discomfort but a deep theological and existential inquiry. It reflects her perplexity and distress, questioning the meaning or purpose of her life in this state of unusual suffering, especially after God had answered her and Isaac's prayers for a child. This demonstrates her spiritual sensitivity, recognizing that the struggle was more than physical and prompting her to seek divine explanation.
* **"And she went to enquire of the LORD":** This final clause reveals Rebekah's faithful and decisive response to her profound distress and questioning. Rather than succumbing to despair, relying solely on human reason, or questioning God's goodness, her immediate action is to seek divine counsel. The phrase "to enquire of the LORD" (Hebrew `darash YHWH`) signifies a diligent and earnest spiritual consultation, likely through prayer or seeking a prophetic word. This act underscores her deep piety, her trust in God's accessibility, and her understanding that true answers to life's profound mysteries come directly from Him, affirming His role as the ultimate source of wisdom and revelation.

#### Literary Devices
Genesis 25:22 employs several significant literary devices. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as the violent internal struggle between the unborn twins directly anticipates the lifelong rivalry between Jacob and Esau and the subsequent national conflict between their descendants, Israel and Edom. This prenatal conflict serves as a symbolic precursor to the larger historical drama. The phrase "why am I thus?" functions as a form of **Theological Questioning**, where Rebekah, in her distress, grapples with the meaning of her suffering and seeks divine understanding, elevating her physical discomfort to a spiritual inquiry. There is also an element of **Irony** in Rebekah's lament; after years of barrenness, the fulfillment of her desire for children brings unexpected and disturbing distress, prompting her to question the very blessing she received. This highlights the complex and often paradoxical nature of divine providence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 25:22 is a foundational text for understanding God's sovereign plan and the nature of human-divine interaction. Rebekah's profound distress and her subsequent faithful inquiry underscore the reality of suffering and confusion even within God's chosen lineage, yet they powerfully affirm God's accessibility and His willingness to reveal His purposes. The internal struggle of the twins, preceding their birth, points to a divine preordination of their destinies and the future of the nations they would father, emphasizing that God's plans are established independently of human merit or action. This narrative sets the stage for the theme of divine election, where God chooses according to His own will, not human convention.

* [Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "God's Prophecy to Rebekah") - This verse directly follows, providing God's prophetic answer to Rebekah's inquiry, revealing His sovereign plan for the two nations and the election of the younger over the elder.
* [Romans 9:10-13](/romans/9-10-13 "Paul's Argument on God's Election of Jacob") - Paul references this very passage to illustrate God's sovereign choice and election, emphasizing that His purpose depends not on works but on His call.
* [Psalm 46:1](/psalm/46-1 "God as Our Refuge and Strength") - Rebekah's act of "enquiring of the LORD" beautifully illustrates the principle that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble, to whom we can turn in times of deep distress and confusion.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Rebekah's experience in Genesis 25:22 offers a profound and timeless model for believers navigating perplexing or painful circumstances in their own lives. Instead of succumbing to despair, relying solely on human understanding, or questioning God's goodness in the face of inexplicable suffering, her immediate and faithful response was to "enquire of the LORD." This teaches us the vital spiritual discipline of bringing our deepest questions, anxieties, and incomprehensible struggles directly to God in prayer and earnest seeking. Her example encourages us to trust that God is not only willing but also able to provide comfort, clarity, and direction, even when the path ahead seems utterly uncertain or when His blessings arrive with unexpected challenges. Her inquiry ultimately led to a profound prophetic revelation, underscoring the enduring value and transformative power of seeking divine wisdom and guidance, reminding us that God often uses our moments of deepest confusion to reveal His greatest truths.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the "struggles within" your own life that cause you perplexity or distress?**
* **Like Rebekah, do you tend to ask "why am I thus?" in difficult situations, and if so, what is your next step after that question?**
* **How can you cultivate a deeper habit of "enquiring of the LORD" when faced with life's mysteries or challenges?**
* **What does Rebekah's example teach us about the nature of faith when answers are not immediately apparent?**

### FAQ
**Why were the children struggling in Rebekah's womb?**

Answer: The struggle described in Genesis 25:22 was more than typical fetal movement; it was a profound, almost violent, interaction that deeply distressed Rebekah. The subsequent verse, [Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "God's Prophecy to Rebekah"), reveals that this struggle was part of God's sovereign plan, indicating the distinct destinies and future national conflict between their descendants, Jacob and Esau. It was a divinely orchestrated sign of the inherent opposition and rivalry that would characterize their lives and the nations they would found.

**How did Rebekah "enquire of the LORD"?**

Answer: While the text does not specify the exact method, "enquire of the LORD" (Hebrew `darash YHWH`) implies a direct and earnest spiritual consultation. In the patriarchal era, this often involved fervent prayer, seeking a prophetic word, or possibly through a recognized spiritual leader or a direct divine encounter, such as a dream or vision. It signifies a diligent and sincere seeking of divine guidance and revelation, demonstrating her deep faith and God's personal accessibility to His people. It was a profound act of seeking God's will and understanding in a perplexing situation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Genesis 25:22, while an Old Testament narrative, subtly points to Christ in its profound themes. The divine election of Jacob over Esau, despite Esau being the firstborn and seemingly having the natural right, prefigures God's sovereign choice and grace that is fully revealed in Christ. Salvation is not by human merit, birthright, or works, but by God's gracious call, as articulated by Paul in [Romans 9:10-13](/romans/9-10-13 "God's Sovereign Choice of Jacob over Esau"). Furthermore, Rebekah's act of seeking divine wisdom in her confusion anticipates the ultimate revelation of God's will and truth found in Jesus Christ. He is the Word made flesh, the very embodiment of divine wisdom, in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Christ, the Treasure of Wisdom")). Jesus is the ultimate answer to humanity's deepest questions and struggles, offering not just understanding but also peace and reconciliation where there is perplexity and conflict, ultimately bringing unity through His atoning work ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Christ Our Peace")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 9:9

(Beforetime in Israel, when a man went to enquire of God, thus he spake, Come, and let us go to the seer: for [he that is] now [called] a Prophet was beforetime called a Seer.)

1 Samuel 28:6

And when Saul enquired of the LORD, the LORD answered him not, neither by dreams, nor by Urim, nor by prophets.

Ezekiel 20:31

For when ye offer your gifts, when ye make your sons to pass through the fire, ye pollute yourselves with all your idols, even unto this day: and shall I be enquired of by you, O house of Israel? [As] I live, saith the Lord GOD, I will not be enquired of by you.

1 Samuel 30:8

And David enquired at the LORD, saying, Shall I pursue after this troop? shall I overtake them? And he answered him, Pursue: for thou shalt surely overtake [them], and without fail recover [all].

1 Samuel 10:22

Therefore they enquired of the LORD further, if the man should yet come thither. And the LORD answered, Behold, he hath hid himself among the stuff.

Ezekiel 36:37

Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will yet [for] this be enquired of by the house of Israel, to do [it] for them; I will increase them with men like a flock.

1 Samuel 22:15

Did I then begin to enquire of God for him? be it far from me: let not the king impute [any] thing unto his servant, [nor] to all the house of my father: for thy servant knew nothing of all this, less or more.