Genesis 25:27

KJV

And the boys grew: and Esau was a cunning hunter, a man of the field; and Jacob [was] a plain man, dwelling in tents.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the boys {H5288} grew {H1431}: and Esau {H6215} was a cunning {H3045} hunter {H6718}, a man {H376} of the field {H7704}; and Jacob {H3290} was a plain {H8535} man {H376}, dwelling {H3427} in tents {H168}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The boys grew; and 'Esav became a skillful hunter, an outdoorsman; while Ya'akov was a quiet man who stayed in the tents.

Berean Standard Bible

When the boys grew up, Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the field, while Jacob was a quiet man who stayed at home.

American Standard Version

And the boys grew: and Esau was a skilful hunter, a man of the field; and Jacob was a quiet man, dwelling in tents.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 25:27 offers a pivotal glimpse into the formative years of Isaac and Rebekah's twin sons, Esau and Jacob, starkly delineating their contrasting temperaments and chosen lifestyles. It portrays Esau as a rugged, skillful hunter, deeply connected to the untamed wilderness, while Jacob is depicted as a more settled, introspective individual, content with the domesticity of tent-dwelling. This verse not only establishes their divergent paths but also subtly foreshadows the unfolding narrative of their rivalry, the divine election, and the foundational elements of the covenant lineage.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the miraculous birth narrative of Esau and Jacob in [Genesis 25:24-26](/genesis/25-24-26 "The birth of Esau and Jacob"), which itself is preceded by the crucial divine prophecy given to Rebekah in [Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "The prophecy concerning two nations from Rebekah's womb"). The prophecy declared that "two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger." Verse 27 serves as the initial fulfillment and vivid illustration of this prophecy, demonstrating how the inherent differences in the twins' characters and chosen vocations began to manifest, setting the stage for the subsequent narrative of Esau despising his birthright ([Genesis 25:29-34](/genesis/25-29-34 "Esau sells his birthright")) and Jacob's eventual acquisition of the blessing. It moves the narrative from their miraculous conception and birth to their developing individual identities.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the patriarchal age, lifestyle was often dictated by the environment and family tradition. Nomadic or semi-nomadic existence, characterized by dwelling in tents and moving with flocks, was common for Abraham's descendants. Hunting, while providing sustenance, was often a more solitary and less domesticated pursuit. The "field" (Hebrew: *sadeh*) represented the wild, untamed areas outside settled encampments, contrasting with the domestic sphere of the "tent" (*ohel*). The description of Esau as a "man of the field" and Jacob as "dwelling in tents" highlights a fundamental cultural and vocational divergence. It also subtly reflects the tension between the settled, covenant-keeping lifestyle of the patriarchs and the more independent, perhaps wilder, existence of those less tethered to the communal and familial traditions.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 25:27 introduces and reinforces several key themes prevalent throughout the book of Genesis. Foremost is the theme of **divine election and sovereignty**, as the inherent differences between the brothers begin to align with the pre-ordained divine purpose declared in [Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "The prophecy of the elder serving the younger"). It also highlights the theme of **contrasting natures and destinies**, where individual character traits, even from childhood, contribute to the unfolding of God's plan, often subverting human expectations (e.g., the younger being chosen over the elder). The verse further establishes the theme of **inheritance and covenant fidelity**, as Jacob's "tent-dwelling" subtly connects him to the nomadic, faith-driven lifestyle of Abraham ([Hebrews 11:9](/hebrews/11-9 "Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob dwelling in tents by faith")) and Isaac, who were sojourners looking for a heavenly city, contrasting with Esau's more earthly, immediate focus which would lead him to despise his birthright ([Genesis 25:34](/genesis/25-34 "Esau despises his birthright")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
The precise language of Genesis 25:27 provides a foundational understanding of the diverging paths of Isaac and Rebekah's twin sons, setting the stage for the intricate family drama that follows. The verse states: "And the boys grew: and Esau was a cunning hunter, a man of the field; and Jacob [was] a plain man, dwelling in tents."

#### Key Word Analysis
* **grew (Hebrew, _gâdal'_):** This primitive root signifies to "become large" or "grow up," encompassing physical maturity but also implying development in character and capacity. The boys' growth marks their transition from infancy to adolescence, where their innate dispositions begin to concretize into distinct lifestyles and identities, making their contrasting natures more apparent and impactful on their future.
* **cunning (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** While often translated as "cunning" in the KJV, this word fundamentally means "to know" or "to be acquainted with." In this context, it suggests Esau was highly skilled, experienced, or knowledgeable in hunting. He was not merely a hunter but one who *knew* the art of the chase, implying expertise, shrewdness, and perhaps a deep familiarity with the wild, untamed aspects of nature. This "knowing" points to his practical, worldly wisdom rather than spiritual insight.
* **plain (Hebrew, _tâm'_):** This term, applied to Jacob, is rich in meaning. From the root "to be complete," it denotes someone who is "complete," "perfect," "undefiled," or "upright." While "plain" might suggest simplicity, *tâm* often implies integrity, quietness, or wholeness of character. It contrasts sharply with Esau's wildness, portraying Jacob as settled, domestic, and perhaps more aligned with the quiet, contemplative life of the patriarchs, living in accordance with their traditions and the covenant promises.
* **tents (Hebrew, _ʼôhel'_):** More than just a dwelling, the "tent" in the patriarchal narrative symbolizes a nomadic, sojourning lifestyle. It represents a temporary dwelling, signifying a people who are not settled in one place but are on a journey, looking forward to a greater, permanent home. Jacob's dwelling in tents connects him directly to the lifestyle of Abraham and Isaac, emphasizing his continuity with the covenant line and their identity as strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the boys grew":** This opening clause signifies the passage of time and the natural development of Esau and Jacob from infancy into young men. It marks a period where their innate temperaments and inclinations would begin to manifest clearly, laying the groundwork for their distinct adult identities and roles within the unfolding narrative.
* **"and Esau was a cunning hunter, a man of the field":** This segment vividly describes Esau's character and chosen vocation. He is portrayed as highly skilled ("cunning") in the art of hunting, indicating a mastery of outdoor pursuits. Being a "man of the field" further emphasizes his affinity for the wilderness, the untamed environment, and a lifestyle that valued immediate gratification and physical prowess over domesticity or settled life.
* **"and Jacob [was] a plain man, dwelling in tents":** In stark contrast, Jacob's character is presented. The term "plain man" (Hebrew: *tam*) suggests integrity, completeness, or quietness, depicting him as settled, domestic, and perhaps more introspective. His "dwelling in tents" directly links him to the traditional nomadic lifestyle of his patriarchal ancestors, signifying a connection to the communal, family-oriented life and, by extension, the covenant promises associated with that heritage.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices to effectively convey the contrasting natures of the twins. **Juxtaposition** is the most prominent, placing Esau's wild, outdoor-oriented life directly against Jacob's settled, domestic existence. This sharp contrast immediately highlights their fundamental differences in temperament and vocation. **Characterization** is achieved through specific descriptive phrases: "cunning hunter" and "man of the field" for Esau, and "plain man, dwelling in tents" for Jacob. These phrases are not merely descriptive but **symbolic**, with the "field" representing the untamed, immediate, and earthly, while "tents" symbolize the domestic, communal, and covenant-oriented life of the patriarchs. This **symbolism** foreshadows their future choices and destinies, suggesting that their inherent natures align with the divine prophecy of their differing paths.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 25:27 is not merely a biographical note but a profound theological statement on divine sovereignty and human nature. The stark contrast between Esau and Jacob, evident from their youth, underscores God's pre-ordained plan, where His choice is not based on human merit or outward appearance, but on His sovereign purpose. This verse sets the stage for the unfolding of God's elective grace, demonstrating that His covenant promises are fulfilled through His chosen vessel, often subverting human expectations and highlighting the spiritual over the carnal.

* [Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "The prophecy of the elder serving the younger")
* [Romans 9:10-13](/romans/9-10-13 "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated")
* [Hebrews 11:9-10](/hebrews/11-9-10 "Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob dwelling in tents by faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 25:27 offers a powerful lens through which to view human diversity and divine purpose. It reminds us that each individual, even within the closest familial bonds, is uniquely wired with distinct personalities, inclinations, and strengths. Instead of striving for uniformity, we are called to recognize and appreciate these God-given differences, understanding that the Lord often uses a wide array of temperaments and gifts to accomplish His sovereign will. This verse subtly challenges us to examine our own priorities: are we, like Esau, primarily driven by immediate gratification, earthly pursuits, and transient pleasures, or are we, like Jacob (despite his flaws), more inclined towards a settled, covenant-focused life, valuing spiritual inheritance and the long-term promises of God? Our choices, shaped by our deepest values and inclinations, ultimately determine the path we walk and the blessings we receive. It urges us to cultivate a heart that prioritizes eternal realities over temporal satisfactions, finding our true dwelling in God's presence and His promises.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do my natural inclinations and chosen activities reflect my deepest values and priorities?**
* **In what ways might I be prioritizing immediate gratification over long-term spiritual inheritance?**
* **How can I better appreciate and utilize the unique strengths and temperaments of those around me, recognizing God's diverse design?**
* **What does "dwelling in tents" mean for me in a spiritual sense today, as a sojourner looking for a heavenly city?**

### FAQ
**What does "plain man" mean in the context of Jacob?**

Answer: The KJV translation "plain man" for Jacob comes from the Hebrew word *tam* (תָּם, H8535). While "plain" might suggest simple or unrefined, *tam* carries a richer meaning, often implying integrity, completeness, quietness, or wholeness. It describes someone who is settled, domestic, and perhaps even wholesome in character, contrasting sharply with Esau's wild, untamed nature. It does not necessarily imply moral perfection, but rather a disposition more aligned with a settled, pastoral existence and potentially more open to the spiritual heritage than Esau's preoccupation with transient pleasures. This disposition would later prove crucial in his role as the inheritor of the covenant, despite his own moral failings.

**How do Esau's and Jacob's early descriptions foreshadow their later roles?**

Answer: Esau's description as a "cunning hunter" and "man of the field" highlights his focus on immediate, earthly pursuits and physical gratification, which directly foreshadows his later decision to despise his birthright for a mere meal ([Genesis 25:29-34](/genesis/25-29-34 "Esau sells his birthright for a bowl of stew")). This illustrates a valuing of the temporal over the eternal. Jacob's characterization as a "plain man, dwelling in tents" connects him to the patriarchal lifestyle of Abraham and Isaac, who lived as sojourners, looking for a heavenly country ([Hebrews 11:9](/hebrews/11-9 "Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob dwelling in tents by faith")). This foreshadows Jacob's role as the inheritor of the covenant promises, despite his own flaws and deceptive actions, emphasizing God's sovereign choice in establishing His lineage and demonstrating that His plan is not dependent on human perfection but on divine election.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The contrasting lives of Esau and Jacob, so vividly introduced in [Genesis 25:27](/genesis/25-27 "Esau and Jacob's contrasting lives"), serve as a profound Old Testament type pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ. Esau, the firstborn, strong and outwardly impressive, represents humanity's natural inclination towards earthly pursuits and self-sufficiency, ultimately leading him to despise his spiritual inheritance for transient satisfaction ([Hebrews 12:16](/hebrews/12-16 "Esau, who for a single meal sold his birthright")). Jacob, the younger, the "plain man" dwelling in tents, though flawed and deceptive, was chosen by God's sovereign grace to carry the covenant line. This divine election, not based on human merit but on God's purpose, finds its ultimate expression in Jesus Christ. He is the true "plain man," not in weakness, but in His profound humility and obedience, emptying Himself and taking the form of a servant ([Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6-8 "Christ's humility and obedience")). Christ embodies the true spiritual inheritance, offering it freely to all who believe, regardless of their earthly prowess or perceived worth. He is the Lamb of God, who, through His sacrifice, takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "Jesus, the Lamb of God")), establishing a new covenant and welcoming all, Jew and Gentile, into His eternal kingdom, fulfilling the promise of a spiritual nation that transcends earthly lineage or human achievement ([Galatians 3:28-29](/galatians/3-28-29 "No Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female in Christ")). He is the one through whom all the promises of God find their "Yes" and "Amen" ([2-corinthians/1-20](/2-corinthians/1-20 "All God's promises are 'Yes' in Christ")), making us heirs according to the promise.

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

Hebrews 11:9

By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as [in] a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:

Genesis 21:20

And God was with the lad; and he grew, and dwelt in the wilderness, and became an archer.

Genesis 10:9

He was a mighty hunter before the LORD: wherefore it is said, Even as Nimrod the mighty hunter before the LORD.

Genesis 6:9

These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.

Genesis 28:10

¶ And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran.

Genesis 28:11

And he lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he took of the stones of that place, and put [them for] his pillows, and lay down in that place to sleep.

Genesis 46:34

That ye shall say, Thy servants' trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, [and] also our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd [is] an abomination unto the Egyptians.