Genesis 27:24

KJV

And he said, [Art] thou my very son Esau? And he said, I [am].

KJV (with Strong's)

And he said {H559}, Art thou my very son {H1121} Esau {H6215}? And he said {H559}, I am.

Complete Jewish Bible

He asked, "Are you really my son 'Esav?"And he replied, "I am."

Berean Standard Bible

Again he asked, “Are you really my son Esau?” And he replied, “I am.”

American Standard Version

And he said, Art thou my very son Esau? And he said, I am.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 27:24 captures the climactic moment of Jacob's deception of his blind father, Isaac, to secure the patriarchal blessing intended for Esau. Isaac, deeply suspicious due to conflicting sensory evidence, directly questions Jacob's identity, to which Jacob, disguised and lying, unequivocally affirms he is Esau, thereby sealing the fraudulent transfer of the irreplaceable blessing and setting in motion a chain of profound consequences.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This pivotal verse occurs amidst a meticulously orchestrated deception by Rebekah and Jacob, designed to circumvent Isaac's intention to bestow the solemn patriarchal blessing upon Esau, his firstborn. Isaac, now old and blind, has called Esau to prepare a savory meal before receiving the binding declaration of divine favor and inheritance. However, Rebekah, recalling God's earlier prophecy that "the elder shall serve the younger" ([Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "God's Prophecy Concerning Jacob and Esau")), devises a plan for Jacob to impersonate Esau. Jacob, covered in goat skins to mimic Esau's hairy hands and wearing Esau's clothes, approaches his father. Isaac's senses betray him; he notes, "The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau" ([Genesis 27:22](/genesis/27-22 "Isaac's Sensory Conflict")). Despite this profound suspicion, Isaac's desperate need for confirmation, coupled with the tactile evidence, leads to the direct confrontation in [Genesis 27:24](/genesis/27-24 "Isaac's Final Question to Jacob"), where Jacob's definitive lie seals the deception.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern societies, the patriarchal blessing was a profoundly significant and binding declaration, far more than a mere wish. It was a formal, often public, and generally irrevocable bestowal of spiritual and material inheritance, divine favor, and authority from the patriarch to his chosen heir, typically the firstborn son (primogeniture). This blessing was believed to be a conduit for God's covenant promises, ensuring prosperity, numerous descendants, and a special relationship with God. The act of blessing was a solemn ritual, often accompanied by a meal. The cultural weight of a direct affirmation or an oath was immense; a spoken word, once given, was considered to have performative power and was extremely difficult, if not impossible, to retract. Isaac's reliance on sensory input (touch, smell, taste, voice) in his blindness reflects the practical realities of the time, where such physical cues were paramount in confirming identity and authenticity.
* **Key Themes:** [Genesis 27:24](/genesis/27-24 "The Deceitful Affirmation") contributes significantly to several major themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. The most prominent is **Deception and its Consequences**, vividly illustrating how human manipulation, even when seemingly successful, leads to profound family strife, fear, and long-term separation, as Jacob's subsequent exile demonstrates. Another crucial theme is the tension between **Divine Sovereignty and Human Means**. While God had sovereignly declared that "the elder shall serve the younger" ([Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "God's Prophecy to Rebekah")), Rebekah and Jacob resorted to sinful means, revealing a lack of trust in God's timing and methods. This narrative underscores that God's purposes will ultimately prevail, but He does not condone or require human sin to achieve them, and such actions always carry repercussions. The **Irreversibility and Power of the Patriarchal Blessing** is also central, highlighting its immense spiritual and material value, which motivated such extreme measures to secure it. Finally, the **Flawed Nature of God's Chosen People** is evident, as Isaac is susceptible to deception and Jacob is willing to lie, emphasizing that God works through imperfect individuals, showcasing His grace and faithfulness rather than human merit.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **said (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** From H559, this primitive root is used with great latitude, meaning "to say, speak, declare, command, answer." In [Genesis 27:24](/genesis/27-24 "Isaac's Question and Jacob's Lie"), the repeated use of "said" (implied in the KJV's "And he said... And he said...") underscores the direct, verbal exchange that forms the climax of the deception. Isaac's question is a desperate plea for clarity, while Jacob's response is a stark, definitive affirmation. The word choice emphasizes that this is not a casual conversation but a moment of profound gravity where spoken words carry immense weight and consequence, leading to a binding declaration that will shape the future of the patriarchal line.
* **son (Hebrew, _bên'_):** From H1121, this term signifies a son in the widest sense, encompassing literal and figurative relationships, and often implies one who builds or continues the family name. Isaac's question, "Art thou my very son Esau?" emphasizes the direct lineage and the specific identity of the heir who would receive the blessing. The term highlights the profound importance of familial identity, primogeniture, and the continuation of the covenant line in ancient Israelite culture, making Jacob's impersonation of his brother a direct assault on these foundational principles.
* **Esau (Hebrew, _ʻÊsâv'_):** From H6215, this name apparently derives from a root meaning "rough" or "hairy," directly relating to Esau's distinctive physical appearance, which was a key element in Jacob's disguise (goat skins). The explicit mention of Esau's name in Isaac's direct question underscores the specific target of the blessing and the profound irony of Jacob's impersonation. Jacob is not merely claiming to be *a* son, but specifically *Esau*, attempting to embody the very characteristics and identity that define his brother, thereby highlighting the depth of the deception.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he said, Art thou my very son Esau?"**: This clause captures Isaac's final, desperate attempt to reconcile the conflicting sensory information he has received. His hearing tells him it's Jacob's voice, but the touch of the hairy hands (covered in goat skins) and the smell of Esau's garments suggest otherwise. The KJV's bracketed "Art" indicates an implied interrogative, while the Hebrew's use of the emphatic pronoun *hu* (הוּא) before "my son Esau" intensifies Isaac's plea for an unequivocal affirmation of identity ("Are you *he*, my son Esau?"). This is not a casual inquiry but a profound challenge, revealing Isaac's deep suspicion and his desire for truth before bestowing the irrevocable patriarchal blessing.
* **"And he said, I am."**: Jacob's response is a concise, absolute, and profoundly deceptive lie. The Hebrew *ani* (אֲנִי), meaning "I," stands alone, a stark and unqualified affirmation. Its brevity underscores the deliberate nature of the deception, leaving no room for ambiguity or hesitation. This single, powerful word, uttered by Jacob, decisively overrides Isaac's lingering doubts, allowing the fraudulent transfer of the blessing to proceed. This moment irrevocably sets in motion a cascade of far-reaching consequences for Jacob, Esau, and their descendants, demonstrating the immense power and destructive potential of a lie.

#### Literary Devices
The exchange in [Genesis 27:24](/genesis/27-24 "Isaac's Interrogation and Jacob's Deceit") is rich with literary techniques that amplify its dramatic impact and thematic depth. The primary device is **Irony**, as Isaac, though physically blind, is initially perceptive enough to note the discrepancy between Jacob's voice and the hands of Esau ([Genesis 27:22](/genesis/27-22 "Isaac's Sensory Conflict")), yet is ultimately swayed by a direct, simple lie. This creates immense **Dramatic Tension**, building to the climax of Jacob's bold affirmation. The entire scene is an elaborate act of **Deception**, meticulously orchestrated by Rebekah and executed by Jacob, highlighting the moral compromise at the heart of the narrative. The direct **Dialogue** between father and son is stark and impactful, revealing Isaac's vulnerability and Jacob's calculated dishonesty. Furthermore, the scene employs **Symbolism** through the use of Esau's garments and the goat skins, which are not merely props but potent representations of the identity Jacob is attempting to steal. The narrative also uses **Contrast** between Isaac's desire for truth and Jacob's embrace of falsehood, setting the stage for future conflicts and the long-term consequences of this pivotal moment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The pivotal exchange in [Genesis 27:24](/genesis/27-24 "The Deceitful Affirmation") profoundly illustrates several enduring theological and thematic truths. It starkly portrays the destructive nature of deception and its far-reaching consequences, demonstrating that even when seemingly successful in achieving a desired outcome, sinful means inevitably lead to pain, division, and long-term suffering, as seen in Jacob's subsequent exile and family estrangement. The narrative also grapples with the tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, highlighting that while God's ultimate purposes for Jacob were predetermined ([Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "God's Prophecy to Rebekah")), human beings are still morally accountable for their choices. God does not condone sin, even when it appears to align with His will, and the narrative serves as a powerful reminder that His plans do not require human manipulation. Furthermore, the scene underscores the immense value and binding nature of the patriarchal blessing in ancient Israelite culture, which was considered an irrevocable spiritual and material inheritance, emphasizing the gravity of Isaac's decision and the profound impact of its bestowal. Finally, the narrative reveals the flawed nature of even foundational biblical patriarchs, showcasing that God works through imperfect individuals, underscoring His grace and faithfulness rather than human merit.

* [Proverbs 12:22](/proverbs/12-22 "Lying Lips are an Abomination to the Lord")
* [Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Sowing and Reaping")
* [Romans 9:10-13](/romans/9-10-13 "God's Sovereign Choice of Jacob")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Genesis 27:24](/genesis/27-24 "The Moment of Deceit") stands as a powerful and enduring narrative for contemporary reflection, urging believers to confront the insidious nature of deception in their own lives. Jacob's choice to lie, despite the divine promise that he would be the one to receive the blessing, reveals a profound lack of trust in God's perfect timing and righteous methods. This narrative serves as a timeless cautionary tale, reminding us that even when we desire a seemingly good outcome, resorting to dishonest means undermines our integrity and ultimately leads to bitter fruit, disrupting relationships and hindering spiritual growth. It compels us to examine our own motivations, asking whether we are truly relying on God's providence or attempting to manipulate circumstances to achieve our own ends. The passage challenges us to cultivate a deep commitment to truthfulness, recognizing that our words and actions have far-reaching consequences, not only for ourselves but for those around us. By embracing integrity and patiently trusting in God's sovereign plan, we align ourselves with His character and open ourselves to His blessings, which are always bestowed in righteousness and truth, far surpassing any gain achieved through deceit.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to use deceptive means to achieve a desired outcome, rather than trusting God's timing and methods?**
* **How does Jacob's immediate consequence (forced exile) illustrate the principle that "whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap" ([Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7 - The Principle of Sowing and Reaping"))?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem to require my intervention through less-than-truthful means?**

### FAQ
**Why was Isaac so easily deceived despite his suspicion?**

Answer: Isaac's advanced age and severe blindness were primary factors, forcing him to rely heavily on his other senses: touch, smell, and hearing. While he explicitly noted the discrepancy between Jacob's voice and the hairy hands ([Genesis 27:22](/genesis/27-22 "Isaac's Sensory Conflict")), the elaborate disguise (goat skins mimicking Esau's hairiness, Esau's clothes), the savory meal prepared by Rebekah, and perhaps his own deep-seated desire to believe his son, allowed Jacob's definitive "I am" to override his lingering doubts. The cultural weight of a direct affirmation or an oath in that ancient context also played a significant role, making it difficult for Isaac to disbelieve such a direct response from his son.

**Did God approve of Jacob's deception to receive the blessing?**

Answer: No, the Bible consistently condemns deception and lying as contrary to God's character and commands ([Proverbs 12:22](/proverbs/12-22 "Proverbs 12:22 - Lying Lips are an Abomination")). While God had sovereignly purposed that Jacob, the younger, would receive the blessing over Esau ([Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "God's Prophecy to Rebekah")), He did not condone the sinful means by which Jacob and Rebekah sought to achieve it. The subsequent years of hardship, fear, and profound family estrangement that Jacob experienced, including his flight from Esau and his own deception by Laban, demonstrate the negative consequences of their actions. This narrative powerfully illustrates that God's will is ultimately accomplished despite human sin, not because of it, and that sinful actions always carry their own painful repercussions.

**What was the significance of the patriarchal blessing in this context?**

Answer: In the ancient Near East, and particularly within the patriarchal narratives, the blessing was a solemn, binding, and often irreversible declaration that conveyed spiritual and material inheritance, divine favor, and authority from the patriarch to his chosen heir. It was not merely a wish but a performative utterance believed to be a conduit for God's covenant promises, ensuring prosperity, numerous descendants, a special relationship with God, and leadership within the family and tribe. Its immense spiritual and practical value is precisely why Jacob and Rebekah went to such extraordinary lengths to secure it, and why Isaac was so distraught upon realizing his deception ([Genesis 27:33-35](/genesis/27-33-35 "Isaac's Realization and Distress")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Jacob's deception in [Genesis 27:24](/genesis/27-24 "Jacob's Deceit and the Blessing") serves as a profound theological foreshadowing and a stark contrast to the ultimate blessing found in Jesus Christ. Jacob, a flawed and fallen man, obtained a temporal, earthly blessing through cunning and outright deceit, highlighting humanity's inherent inability to perfectly fulfill God's will and our fallen nature's propensity towards manipulation. In radical contrast, Jesus Christ is the true and ultimate heir, the perfectly obedient Son of God who genuinely receives and bestows the eternal blessing. Unlike Jacob, who presented a false identity and relied on a physical disguise, Christ is the authentic Son, the very image of the invisible God ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of God")). Through His perfect life, His atoning death on the cross, and His glorious resurrection, Christ secured the New Covenant blessing for all who believe ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Blessed in Christ")). He does not deceive but reveals truth, offering a spiritual inheritance that far surpasses any earthly gain ([1 Peter 1:3-5](/1_peter/1-3-5 "1 Peter 1:3-5 - An Inheritance Imperishable")). This blessing is freely given by grace through faith ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by Grace Through Faith")), not earned through human contrivance or deceit. Through Christ, believers are truly blessed with adoption into God's family ([Galatians 4:4-7](/galatians/4-4-7 "Galatians 4:4-7 - Adoption as Sons")), the indwelling of the Holy Spirit ([John 14:16-17](/john/14-16-17 "John 14:16-17 - The Promise of the Holy Spirit")), and eternal life ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World")), fulfilling the Abrahamic covenant in a way that Jacob's earthly blessing could only dimly prefigure.

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

Colossians 3:9

Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;

Ephesians 4:25

Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.

Proverbs 12:22

¶ Lying lips [are] abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly [are] his delight.

Proverbs 30:8

Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me:

Romans 3:7

For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner?

Romans 3:8

And not [rather], (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just.

Job 15:5

For thy mouth uttereth thine iniquity, and thou choosest the tongue of the crafty.