Genesis 26:35

KJV

Which were a grief of mind unto Isaac and to Rebekah.

KJV (with Strong's)

Which were a grief {H4786} of mind {H7307} unto Isaac {H3327} and to Rebekah {H7259}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But they became a cause for embitterment of spirit to Yitz'chak and Rivkah.

Berean Standard Bible

And they brought grief to Isaac and Rebekah.

American Standard Version

and they were a grief of mind unto Isaac and to Rebekah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 26:35 succinctly captures the profound and persistent emotional distress experienced by Isaac and Rebekah, Esau’s parents, as a direct consequence of his marital choices. By taking two Hittite women as wives, Esau disregarded the foundational covenant principles of their lineage, which aimed to preserve spiritual purity and distinctiveness, thereby causing his parents deep and continuous sorrow.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes a section detailing Esau's early life and choices, particularly his marriages. Immediately preceding it, [Genesis 26:34](/genesis/26-34 "Esau takes Hittite wives") states that "Esau was forty years old when he took to wife Judith the daughter of Beeri the Hittite, and Bashemath the daughter of Elon the Hittite." This verse, [Genesis 26:35](/genesis/26-35 "Esau's wives cause grief"), serves as the immediate emotional and theological commentary on Esau's actions, revealing their profound impact on his parents. It sets the stage for the escalating family tension and conflict that will dominate the subsequent chapters, particularly the narrative of Jacob and Esau's rivalry for the birthright and blessing in [Genesis 27](/genesis/27 "Jacob and Esau's Struggle for the Blessing"). The verse highlights a critical turning point, marking the beginning of the spiritual divergence within Isaac's family.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the patriarchal period, marriage was not merely a personal affair but a deeply communal and covenantal matter, especially for the family chosen by God to carry His promises. Abraham, Isaac's father, had established a clear precedent by ensuring his son did not marry a woman from the local Canaanite peoples, but rather from his own kindred, to preserve the spiritual purity and distinctiveness of their lineage, crucial for the covenant through which God's promises would be fulfilled (as seen in [Abraham's instructions in Genesis 24:3-4](/genesis/24-3-4 "Abraham's instructions concerning Isaac's marriage")). Esau, however, disregarded this foundational family and spiritual principle by marrying women from the Hittite tribes, who were part of the inhabitants of Canaan. The Hittites were a prominent people group in the ancient Near East, known for their distinct culture and polytheistic religious practices. Their foreign customs and idolatrous practices were likely a constant source of friction and spiritual concern for Isaac and Rebekah, leading to the profound "grief of mind" described in this verse.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes within the book of Genesis. It underscores the theme of **covenant faithfulness and purity**, highlighting the importance of maintaining spiritual distinctiveness in a pagan world, a principle that would later be codified in the Mosaic Law (e.g., [Deuteronomy 7:3-4](/deuteronomy/7-3-4 "Prohibition of intermarriage with Canaanites")). It also powerfully illustrates the **consequences of personal choices**, particularly in foundational areas like marriage, demonstrating how individual decisions can have profound ripple effects on family relationships and spiritual well-being. Furthermore, it subtly introduces the theme of **divine election and human struggle**, as Esau's choices contrast sharply with God's pre-ordained plan for Jacob to carry the covenant line, even amidst familial distress (see [Romans 9:10-13](/romans/9-10-13 "Jacob and Esau chosen before birth")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **grief (Hebrew, _môrâh'_):** From the root מָרַר (marar), meaning "to be bitter." This word signifies "bitterness" or "trouble." In this context, it denotes a deep, internal sorrow or vexation, indicating a persistent and profound emotional pain rather than a fleeting annoyance. It suggests a state of being constantly troubled or grieved.
* **mind (Hebrew, _rûwach'_):** This multifaceted word refers to "wind," "breath," or "spirit." Here, it denotes the inner essence of a person—their spirit, disposition, or inner being. When combined with "grief" (môrâh), "grief of mind" (môrâh rûwach) literally translates to "bitterness of spirit" or "vexation of spirit," emphasizing that the distress was not merely external but deeply affected their inner peace and spiritual well-being.
* **Isaac (Hebrew, _Yitschâq'_):** Meaning "laughter" or "he laughs." This name, given in anticipation of God's promise to Abraham and Sarah, ironically contrasts with the "grief" he now experiences. The very name meant to signify joy and divine blessing now stands in stark relief against the sorrow brought by his son's choices.
* **Rebekah (Hebrew, _Ribqâh'_):** From an unused root likely meaning "to clog by tying up the fetlock," or "fettering (by beauty)." Her name might allude to her captivating beauty, yet it is her deep spiritual concern and later actions (in [Genesis 27](/genesis/27 "Rebekah's role in Jacob's deception")) that define her response to this "grief of mind."

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Which were a grief of mind":** This phrase, translating the Hebrew *môrâh rûwach*, describes the profound and enduring emotional and spiritual distress experienced by Isaac and Rebekah. It signifies a "bitterness of spirit" or "vexation of spirit," indicating that Esau's actions were a continuous source of deep sorrow, irritation, and spiritual anguish that permeated their inner peace and well-being. It was not a momentary disappointment but an ongoing burden.
* **"unto Isaac and to Rebekah":** This specifies the recipients of this profound grief. Both parents were equally affected, highlighting the shared burden and the collective impact of Esau's choices on the foundational couple of the covenant line. The mention of both parents underscores the severity of the issue, as it troubled both the patriarchal head of the family and his spiritually discerning wife. Rebekah's later explicit complaint to Isaac in [Genesis 27:46](/genesis/27-46 "Rebekah's complaint about Esau's wives") further emphasizes the depth and persistence of her distress.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. The phrase "grief of mind" itself functions as a **Euphemism** or **Understatement**, subtly conveying a much deeper and more pervasive spiritual anguish than a mere annoyance. The Hebrew *môrâh rûwach* (bitterness of spirit) suggests a constant, nagging irritation and profound sorrow that permeates their inner being, far beyond simple parental disappointment. This emotional state also serves as **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the future conflicts and divisions within the family, particularly the rivalry between Jacob and Esau, and the eventual separation of their lineages. It also foreshadows the later Mosaic Law's strong prohibitions against intermarriage with pagan nations, underscoring the spiritual danger of such unions for the covenant people. Furthermore, there is a subtle **Irony** in the name "Isaac" (meaning "laughter"), as the one whose birth brought joy and laughter now experiences profound grief due to his son's choices, contrasting the promise with the present reality.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The "grief of mind" experienced by Isaac and Rebekah over Esau's marriages powerfully illustrates the profound spiritual and emotional consequences of choices that deviate from God's covenant principles. It underscores the deep parental anguish that can arise when children make decisions that threaten the spiritual integrity of the family and compromise the foundational values of their faith. This sorrow highlights the importance of spiritual compatibility in marriage, not merely as a cultural preference but as a vital component for preserving a godly heritage and ensuring the continuation of God's purposes through a distinct people. Ultimately, this verse serves as a sober reminder that personal choices, especially in foundational areas like marriage, have far-reaching implications, impacting not only individuals but also their families and the broader community of faith.

* [Exodus 34:16](/exodus/34-16 "Do not intermarry with the inhabitants of the land")
* [Deuteronomy 7:3-4](/deuteronomy/7-3-4 "Do not intermarry with them")
* [2 Corinthians 6:14](/2_corinthians/6-14 "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This ancient verse offers several timeless lessons for modern readers. It underscores the profound impact that marital choices have, not only on the individuals involved but also on their immediate families and spiritual legacy. It validates the deep concern and sometimes sorrow parents feel for their children's life choices, especially those that touch upon core values and spiritual commitments. For believers today, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of living a life distinct from worldly values, particularly in foundational relationships like marriage, to honor God and maintain spiritual integrity. Discerning partners who share and uphold one's spiritual convictions is crucial for a harmonious home and a strong spiritual foundation for future generations. It calls us to consider how our choices reflect our commitment to God's covenant and how they impact those we love most.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do my personal choices, particularly in relationships, reflect my commitment to God's covenant principles?**
* **How can I better support and pray for family members whose choices may be causing spiritual distress or deviation from a godly path?**
* **What steps can I take to ensure that my home and family life are built upon a foundation of spiritual integrity and distinctiveness from worldly values?**

### FAQ
**Why was Esau's marriage to Hittite women such a problem for Isaac and Rebekah?**

Answer: Esau's marriages were problematic because they violated a long-standing family and covenant principle established by Abraham. Abraham had explicitly ensured Isaac married from his own kindred (as seen in [Genesis 24:3-4](/genesis/24-3-4 "Abraham's instructions for Isaac's marriage")) to preserve the spiritual purity and distinctiveness of their lineage, which was crucial for God's covenant promises. The Hittite women were from a pagan culture, and their foreign customs and idolatrous practices posed a direct threat to the spiritual integrity of Isaac and Rebekah's family, causing them deep and ongoing distress. Their presence represented a spiritual compromise that jeopardized the unique identity of the covenant people.

**What does "grief of mind" truly mean in the Hebrew?**

Answer: The KJV phrase "grief of mind" translates the Hebrew *môrâh rûwach* (מֹרַת רוּחַ), which literally means "bitterness of spirit" or "vexation of spirit." It signifies a profound, internal, and persistent sorrow or anguish, rather than a fleeting annoyance. The word *môrâh* (grief) comes from a root meaning "to be bitter," and *rûwach* (mind) refers to the inner spirit or disposition. Thus, it suggests that Esau's wives were a continuous source of spiritual distress and irritation that deeply affected Isaac and Rebekah's inner peace and well-being, a constant "bitterness" in their "spirit."

**Does this verse suggest that God cares about whom we marry today?**

Answer: Yes, this verse, along with many other passages in Scripture, strongly implies that God cares deeply about whom His people marry. While the specific cultural context of "kindred" has changed, the underlying principle of spiritual compatibility and distinctiveness remains. The New Testament similarly warns against being "unequally yoked with unbelievers" (as seen in [2 Corinthians 6:14](/2_corinthians/6-14 "Do not be unequally yoked")), emphasizing that marriage should ideally be between those who share a common faith and commitment to Christ. This is to foster spiritual unity, prevent compromise, and ensure that the family unit can effectively honor God and raise future generations in His ways, avoiding the "grief of mind" that comes from spiritual misalignment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The "grief of mind" experienced by Isaac and Rebekah over Esau's choices highlights the persistent struggle in the Old Covenant to maintain spiritual purity and distinctiveness through human effort and adherence to lineage. This sorrow foreshadows the deeper grief caused by humanity's ongoing rebellion against God, which necessitated a perfect solution. In Christ, the ultimate heir of the Abrahamic covenant (as prophesied in [Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "The promises were made to Abraham and to his seed, who is Christ")), the true spiritual family is formed, not by ethnic lineage or human choice alone, but by faith in Him. He establishes a new covenant where spiritual kinship transcends earthly boundaries, uniting believers from every nation into one body, the Church (as seen in [Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone")). Through His atoning work on the cross, Christ addresses the root cause of all "grief of mind"—sin—offering true peace and the promise of a perfectly distinct and pure people, united in Him, free from the burdens of spiritual compromise and the consequences of unwise choices (as described in [Colossians 1:21-22](/colossians/1-21-22 "Reconciled in the body of his flesh through death")). He is the true spiritual "kinsman-redeemer" who brings an end to the "bitterness of spirit" caused by sin and separation from God.

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

Genesis 27:46

And Rebekah said to Isaac, I am weary of my life because of the daughters of Heth: if Jacob take a wife of the daughters of Heth, such as these [which are] of the daughters of the land, what good shall my life do me?

Genesis 28:2

Arise, go to Padanaram, to the house of Bethuel thy mother's father; and take thee a wife from thence of the daughters of Laban thy mother's brother.

Genesis 6:2

That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they [were] fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose.

Genesis 28:8

And Esau seeing that the daughters of Canaan pleased not Isaac his father;