Genesis 27:13

KJV

And his mother said unto him, Upon me [be] thy curse, my son: only obey my voice, and go fetch me [them].

KJV (with Strong's)

And his mother {H517} said {H559} unto him, Upon me be thy curse {H7045}, my son {H1121}: only obey {H8085} my voice {H6963}, and go {H3212} fetch {H3947} me them.

Complete Jewish Bible

But his mother said, "Let your curse be on me. Just listen to me, and go get me the kids!"

Berean Standard Bible

His mother replied, “Your curse be on me, my son. Just obey my voice and go get them for me.”

American Standard Version

And his mother said unto him, Upon me be thy curse, my son; only obey my voice, and go fetch me them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 27:13 captures Rebekah's audacious and resolute declaration to Jacob, wherein she willingly assumes responsibility for any potential curse that might befall him as a consequence of deceiving Isaac to secure the patriarchal blessing. This pivotal moment underscores Rebekah's unwavering determination to see her favored son receive the blessing, overriding Jacob's hesitation and compelling him into a morally ambiguous act of deception that profoundly alters the trajectory of their family and sets in motion a chain of significant events.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into the dramatic narrative of Genesis 27, immediately following Jacob's apprehension about his mother's plan. Isaac, now old and blind, has expressed his desire to bestow the patriarchal blessing upon his elder son, Esau, after Esau prepares a final savory meal. Rebekah, overhearing Isaac's instructions, quickly devises a scheme to ensure Jacob, her favored son, receives the blessing instead. Jacob voices his fear that his father will discover the deception, leading to a curse rather than a blessing, as articulated in [Genesis 27:12](/genesis/27-12 "Jacob's fear of a curse"). Rebekah's forceful words in verse 13 serve as her direct, decisive response to Jacob's apprehension, effectively removing his last objection and propelling him into the deceptive act that culminates in him receiving Isaac's blessing in [Genesis 27:27-29](/genesis/27-27-29 "Isaac blesses Jacob").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, patriarchal blessings and curses were not mere pronouncements but were believed to carry immense spiritual and material weight, shaping the destiny, prosperity, and lineage of individuals and their descendants. They were seen as divinely sanctioned and irreversible, making Jacob's fear of a curse (as opposed to a blessing) entirely rational within his cultural framework. The concept of taking another's curse upon oneself, as Rebekah suggests, highlights the profound belief in the transferable nature of such pronouncements and the extreme measures individuals might take to secure or avoid them. Furthermore, the cultural norms of primogeniture (the right of the firstborn son to inherit) were deeply ingrained, making Rebekah's subversion of this tradition a significant and risky act. The familial structure, where the patriarch held ultimate authority, also underscores the gravity of Isaac's blessing and the lengths Rebekah would go to manipulate it.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 27:13 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis. It prominently features the theme of **Divine Sovereignty versus Human Agency**, as Rebekah's manipulative actions attempt to facilitate what she believes is God's predetermined plan for Jacob (foretold in [Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "The oracle concerning Jacob and Esau")), yet through ethically questionable means. The narrative also deeply explores the **Consequences of Deception**, demonstrating that while immediate goals may be achieved, unrighteous methods often lead to long-term familial strife, separation, and personal hardship, as seen in Jacob's subsequent flight from Esau's wrath ([Genesis 27:43](/genesis/27-43 "Jacob flees from Esau")) and the estrangement within the family. Furthermore, the destructive impact of **Familial Favoritism** (Isaac's preference for Esau, Rebekah's for Jacob) is clearly depicted as a catalyst for the deception and subsequent discord, a tragic pattern that tragically echoes in later generations of Jacob's own family, particularly with Joseph ([Genesis 37:3-4](/genesis/37-3-4 "Jacob's favoritism for Joseph")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Rebekah's words in [Genesis 27:13](/genesis/27-13 "Rebekah's declaration to Jacob") reveal a complex interplay of maternal love, strategic manipulation, and deep conviction regarding the divine purpose for Jacob.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **mother (Hebrew, _ʼêm'_):** From H517, this word signifies the foundational bond of the family, highlighting Rebekah's role as the matriarch and the source of this decisive, albeit manipulative, command. Her identity as "mother" underscores the profound influence she wields over Jacob, compelling his obedience despite his moral reservations.
* **curse (Hebrew, _qᵉlâlâh'_):** From H7045, this term denotes vilification or an imprecation believed to bring misfortune and divine disfavor. Jacob's fear of receiving a "curse" ([Genesis 27:12](/genesis/27-12 "Jacob's fear of a curse")) instead of a blessing underscores the immense spiritual and social weight associated with such pronouncements in ancient Near Eastern culture. Rebekah's willingness to take this "curse" upon herself demonstrates her extraordinary resolve and willingness to bear the spiritual and social repercussions of the deception.
* **obey (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** From H8085, this primitive root means "to hear intelligently," often implying attention, consent, and active obedience. Rebekah's command, "only obey my voice," is a direct and authoritative directive, emphasizing her expectation of Jacob's compliance. This word highlights the power dynamic between mother and son, where Jacob's "obedience" to his mother's deceptive plan becomes a pivotal act leading to profound consequences.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And his mother said unto him,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes Rebekah as the initiator and driving force behind the ensuing deception. It highlights her proactive role in orchestrating the scheme, contrasting with Jacob's initial reluctance. Her words are not a suggestion but a directive, underscoring her strong will and conviction.
* **"Upon me [be] thy curse, my son:"**: This is the core of Rebekah's audacious declaration. The phrase "Upon me be thy curse" (`‘ālay qillātekā`) is an emphatic and self-sacrificial statement. Rebekah is not merely dismissing Jacob's fear; she is explicitly offering to absorb any negative consequences—spiritual, social, or personal—that might arise from the deception. Her use of "my son" softens the command with maternal affection, yet reinforces her authority and commitment to Jacob's perceived destiny. This declaration reflects her profound belief that Jacob, having already acquired [Esau's birthright](/genesis/25-34 "Esau sells his birthright"), was the rightful heir to the blessing, and she was willing to take extreme measures to ensure this.
* **"only obey my voice, and go fetch me [them]."**: This final clause is Rebekah's direct command, stripping Jacob of further excuses or hesitation. The imperative "obey my voice" signifies an expectation of immediate and unquestioning compliance. The subsequent instruction to "go fetch me [them]" (referring to the young goats she needs for the meal) provides the concrete action Jacob must take. This parental directive compels Jacob to participate in the elaborate ruse, leading directly to him receiving the blessing. However, this act of obedience to his mother, despite its immediate success, also sets in motion a series of profound familial conflicts.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to enhance its dramatic impact and thematic depth. **Dramatic Irony** is present, as the audience knows the divine oracle concerning the elder serving the younger ([Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "The oracle concerning Jacob and Esau")), which Rebekah seems to be acting upon, yet the characters (Isaac and Esau) are unaware of the full scope of the deception. Rebekah's declaration, "Upon me be thy curse," serves as a form of **Hyperbole**, demonstrating the extreme lengths she is willing to go, though the narrative later reveals that the "curse" of family discord and separation indeed falls upon the family, albeit not in the literal way Jacob feared. The verse also uses **Direct Speech** to vividly portray Rebekah's forceful character and her persuasive power over Jacob, making her determination palpable. Furthermore, the scene is rich in **Foreshadowing**, as Rebekah's willingness to absorb the curse subtly hints at a deeper theological truth—that a curse would eventually be taken by another, greater figure, for the sake of blessing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 27:13 is a microcosm of profound theological and thematic tensions within the biblical narrative, particularly the interplay between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. While God's ultimate purpose for Jacob was clear from the divine oracle, Rebekah's resort to deception highlights the human tendency to manipulate circumstances to achieve perceived divine ends, rather than trusting in God's timing and methods. This passage underscores that while God's plans will ultimately prevail, human sin and manipulation carry significant, often painful, consequences for individuals and relationships, demonstrating that the ends do not justify the means. It also illuminates the ancient understanding of blessings and curses as powerful, destiny-shaping pronouncements.

* [Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "The Abrahamic Covenant") - God's promise to Abraham includes blessing those who bless him and cursing those who curse him, establishing the profound significance of blessings and curses in the divine economy.
* [Deuteronomy 28:15-68](/deuteronomy/28-15-68 "Consequences of Disobedience") - This extensive passage details the severe curses that will befall Israel if they disobey God's commands, illustrating the tangible and devastating effects of divine curses in the covenant context.
* [Proverbs 11:3](/proverbs/11-3 "Integrity and Deception") - "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity," serving as a wisdom principle that speaks to the long-term negative consequences of deception, even if it yields immediate success.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 27:13 serves as a profound reminder that while God's sovereign plan will ultimately be accomplished, our methods matter deeply. Rebekah's willingness to take a curse upon herself for what she believed was a righteous outcome, though successful in the immediate sense, led to years of pain, separation, and profound relational brokenness for her family. This narrative challenges us to critically examine our own motivations and methods when pursuing what we perceive as God's will or a desired outcome in life. Are we tempted to use manipulative, dishonest, or ungodly means to achieve what we believe is a good end? The story calls us to trust implicitly in God's timing and His perfect methods, walking in integrity, truth, and patience, rather than resorting to human schemes. It reminds us that even "good" outcomes achieved through ungodly means often carry unforeseen and destructive consequences, leaving a trail of broken trust and fractured relationships in their wake. True faith involves not just believing in God's ultimate purpose, but also trusting Him with the process.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to use manipulative or deceptive means to achieve a desired outcome, even if I believe the outcome is good or aligned with God's will?**
* **How does Rebekah's willingness to take a curse upon herself challenge or affirm my understanding of sacrifice and responsibility?**
* **What are the long-term consequences of deception, even when it appears to succeed in the short term, as illustrated in this narrative?**
* **How can I cultivate greater trust in God's timing and methods, rather than relying on my own schemes to bring about His purposes?**

### FAQ

**Why did Rebekah take the curse upon herself?**

Answer: Rebekah's declaration to take the curse upon herself demonstrates her extreme determination and conviction that Jacob was the rightful heir to the patriarchal blessing. This conviction likely stemmed from the earlier divine oracle she received, stating that "the elder shall serve the younger" ([Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "The oracle concerning Jacob and Esau")). She was willing to bear any spiritual or social repercussions to ensure Jacob received the blessing, overriding Jacob's own fears and hesitation and acting as a decisive force in the unfolding drama.

**Did God approve of Rebekah's deception?**

Answer: The biblical narrative does not explicitly state God's approval of Rebekah's deceptive methods. While God's sovereign plan for Jacob to receive the blessing ultimately prevailed, the text highlights the significant negative consequences of the deception, including family strife, Jacob's subsequent flight from Esau, and a long period of separation from his family. This suggests that while God can use human actions, even sinful ones, to accomplish His purposes, He does not endorse the sin itself. The narrative subtly critiques the means, even as it affirms the divine end.

**What was the significance of a "curse" in this ancient context?**

Answer: In ancient Near Eastern culture, particularly for the Israelites, a patriarchal curse was believed to be a powerful, divinely sanctioned pronouncement with tangible and lasting negative effects on an individual's life, lineage, and prosperity. It was seen as a reversal of blessing, bringing misfortune, barrenness, or separation from divine favor and community. Jacob's fear of receiving a curse instead of a blessing ([Genesis 27:12](/genesis/27-12 "Jacob's fear of a curse")) underscores its profound spiritual, social, and material implications, as such a pronouncement was thought to profoundly shape one's destiny.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The themes of blessing, curse, and divine election in Genesis 27:13 find their ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Rebekah sought to secure an earthly, conditional blessing for Jacob through human deception and offered to bear a potential curse, Christ willingly became the ultimate curse for humanity, taking upon Himself the full weight of sin's penalty, so that believers might receive the true, eternal blessing of God. As [Galatians 3:13](/galatians/3-13 "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law") proclaims, "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us." The earthly, conditional blessing sought by Jacob, and the human scheme to obtain it, point forward to the perfect and unconditional blessing of salvation and adoption offered through Christ's sacrificial obedience, not through human manipulation. In Christ, God's sovereign plan for humanity's redemption is fulfilled, not through deception or the flawed efforts of humanity, but through divine truth, perfect righteousness, and sacrificial love, offering a blessing that far surpasses any earthly inheritance ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Blessed in Christ with every spiritual blessing")). He is the true son who perfectly obeys the Father, securing blessings for all who trust in Him, without any need for human deceit ([Hebrews 5:8-9](/hebrews/5-8-9 "Jesus learned obedience and became the source of eternal salvation")).

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

Matthew 27:25

Then answered all the people, and said, His blood [be] on us, and on our children.

1 Samuel 25:24

And fell at his feet, and said, Upon me, my lord, [upon] me [let this] iniquity [be]: and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak in thine audience, and hear the words of thine handmaid.

2 Samuel 14:9

And the woman of Tekoah said unto the king, My lord, O king, the iniquity [be] on me, and on my father's house: and the king and his throne [be] guiltless.

Genesis 25:33

And Jacob said, Swear to me this day; and he sware unto him: and he sold his birthright unto Jacob.

1 Samuel 14:24

¶ And the men of Israel were distressed that day: for Saul had adjured the people, saying, Cursed [be] the man that eateth [any] food until evening, that I may be avenged on mine enemies. So none of the people tasted [any] food.

1 Samuel 14:28

Then answered one of the people, and said, Thy father straitly charged the people with an oath, saying, Cursed [be] the man that eateth [any] food this day. And the people were faint.

Genesis 25:23

And the LORD said unto her, 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.