Genesis 27:27

KJV

And he came near, and kissed him: and he smelled the smell of his raiment, and blessed him, and said, See, the smell of my son [is] as the smell of a field which the LORD hath blessed:

KJV (with Strong's)

And he came near {H5066}, and kissed {H5401} him: and he smelled {H7306} the smell {H7381} of his raiment {H899}, and blessed {H1288} him, and said {H559}, See {H7200}, the smell {H7381} of my son {H1121} is as the smell {H7381} of a field {H7704} which the LORD {H3068} hath blessed {H1288}:

Complete Jewish Bible

He approached and kissed him. Yitz'chak smelled his clothes and blessed Ya'akov with these words: "See, my son smells like a field which ADONAI has blessed.

Berean Standard Bible

So he came near and kissed him. When Isaac smelled his clothing, he blessed him and said: “Ah, the smell of my son is like the smell of a field that the LORD has blessed.

American Standard Version

And he came near, and kissed him: and he smelled the smell of his raiment, and blessed him, and said, See, the smell of my son Is as the smell of a field which Jehovah hath blessed:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 27:27 captures the pivotal moment when Isaac, old and visually impaired, is deceived by Jacob, who impersonates Esau. Relying on his sense of smell, Isaac perceives the scent of Jacob's (Esau's) raiment as "the smell of a field which the LORD hath blessed," leading him to confirm his belief in his son's identity and irrevocably impart the patriarchal blessing. This verse underscores the role of sensory perception in the deception, highlights the profound weight of a spoken blessing, and sets the stage for the unfolding of God's sovereign plan despite human imperfection and deceit.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 27:27 serves as the dramatic climax of a meticulously orchestrated deception. Preceding this verse, Isaac, now elderly and blind, expresses his desire to bestow the irreplaceable patriarchal blessing upon his favored elder son, Esau, instructing him to hunt and prepare a savory meal [Genesis 27:1-4 "Isaac's Charge to Esau"]. Unbeknownst to Isaac, Rebekah, who favored Jacob, overheard this conversation and immediately devised a scheme for Jacob to impersonate Esau. She dressed Jacob in Esau's distinctive garments and covered his hands and neck with goat skins to mimic Esau's hairiness [Genesis 27:6-17 "Rebekah's Deceptive Plan"]. Jacob then presented the prepared meal to his father. Isaac, suspicious of Jacob's voice, questioned his identity, stating, "The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau" [Genesis 27:22 "Isaac's Suspicion"]. He used touch to verify the hairy arms, but it is in verse 27 that his sense of smell provides the final, seemingly irrefutable evidence, prompting him to proceed with the blessing. The subsequent verses detail the profound and irreversible nature of this blessing and Esau's bitter lament upon discovering the deception [Genesis 27:34-38 "Esau's Bitter Cry"].
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, patriarchal blessings were not mere well-wishes but performative utterances believed to carry divine authority and shape the recipient's destiny. They were considered binding, irrevocable, and foundational to the transmission of family inheritance, spiritual legacy, and covenant promises. Primogeniture, the right of the firstborn son to inherit the family headship and a double portion of the inheritance, was a deeply ingrained cultural norm. Isaac's reliance on sensory input—touch, taste, and particularly smell—was a necessity given his blindness, but it also reflects a cultural understanding where physical presence and sensory confirmation were crucial in solemn rituals. The "smell of a field" would have been a familiar and positive association for nomadic or semi-nomadic peoples, signifying fertility, abundance, and divine favor upon the land, which was central to their existence and prosperity.
* **Key Themes:** This passage profoundly contributes to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty** working through human imperfection and even sin; despite the deceit, God's earlier prophecy to Rebekah that "the elder shall serve the younger" [Genesis 25:23 "God's Prophecy to Rebekah"] is ultimately fulfilled. Secondly, it underscores the **Power and Irrevocability of the Spoken Word**, particularly a divinely inspired blessing, which once uttered, cannot be rescinded. Thirdly, the narrative explores the theme of **Deception and its Consequences**, demonstrating that while God's purposes will prevail, human sin still carries painful repercussions, as seen in Jacob's subsequent flight from Esau [Genesis 27:43 "Jacob Flees from Esau"] and his own experience of being deceived by Laban [Genesis 29:25 "Laban Deceives Jacob"]. Finally, the imagery of the blessed field introduces the theme of **Blessing as Prosperity and Fruitfulness**, linking spiritual favor to tangible abundance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **came near (Language, _nâgash'_):** From H5066, this primitive root means "to be or come (causatively, bring) near (for any purpose)." In this context, it describes Jacob's physical approach to Isaac, a crucial step in the execution of the deception, bringing him within range for Isaac to engage his senses of touch and smell.
* **smelled (Language, _rûwach'_):** From H7306, this primitive root properly means "to blow, i.e. breathe," but by implication, "to smell or perceive." Here, it denotes Isaac's active perception of the scent emanating from Jacob (wearing Esau's clothes), which serves as the final, convincing sensory evidence for his identification of the person before him.
* **smell (Language, _rêyach'_):** From H7381, this noun refers to "odor (as if blown), savour, scent." In this verse, it is used three times, emphasizing the profound impact of the aroma of Esau's garments on Isaac, linking it directly to the "smell of a field which the LORD hath blessed" and solidifying his conviction.
* **blessed (Language, _bârak'_):** From H1288, a primitive root meaning "to kneel; by implication to bless God (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit)." Here, it refers to Isaac's act of conferring the patriarchal blessing upon Jacob, an act of immense spiritual and material significance, believed to convey divine favor and future prosperity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he came near, and kissed him":** This describes Jacob's final approach and intimate gesture towards his blind father. The kiss, an act of familial affection, further solidifies the illusion of Esau's presence, as it implies a close, personal interaction that would be expected between father and son. This physical closeness also positions Jacob perfectly for Isaac to engage his sense of smell.
* **"and he smelled the smell of his raiment, and blessed him":** This clause is the turning point. Isaac's sense of smell, often the most primal and evocative, becomes the decisive factor. The "raiment" (Hebrew, _beged'_ from H899, meaning "clothing") refers to Esau's distinctive outdoor hunting clothes, which would have carried the scent of the fields and perhaps animals, lending authenticity to Jacob's disguise. Once this familiar and reassuring scent registered, Isaac's lingering doubts, previously expressed about the voice, were overcome, leading him to immediately proceed with the blessing. This highlights the profound trust Isaac placed in this sensory confirmation.
* **"and said, See, the smell of my son [is] as the smell of a field which the LORD hath blessed":** This is Isaac's pronouncement, revealing the basis for his conviction and the depth of his perception. The triple repetition of "smell" (Hebrew, _rêyach'_) emphasizes the sensory experience. The comparison to "a field which the LORD hath blessed" (Hebrew, _sâdeh asher berakhoh YHWH'_) is richly symbolic. It evokes imagery of lush fertility, abundant harvest, and the sweet, life-giving aroma of a thriving landscape. This metaphor connects the blessing not just to a pleasant scent, but to divine favor, prosperity, and the very essence of God's provision and flourishing upon creation. It suggests a life of abundance, fruitfulness, and divine favor for the recipient of the blessing.

#### Literary Devices
The passage makes effective use of **Sensory Imagery**, particularly focusing on the sense of smell. Isaac, deprived of sight, relies on touch (hands) and especially smell (raiment) to confirm identity, making the aroma of the field a crucial element in the deception. There is profound **Irony** in the fact that Isaac's heightened sensory perception, intended to verify his son's identity, becomes the very means by which he is deceived, yet this deception ultimately serves to fulfill God's sovereign plan. The phrase "the smell of a field which the LORD hath blessed" functions as a powerful **Simile** and **Symbolism**. The simile directly compares the son's scent to a blessed field, while the imagery itself symbolizes prosperity, fertility, divine favor, and the covenant promises of land and abundance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 27:27 powerfully illustrates the tension between human will and divine sovereignty. Despite Jacob's deceitful actions and Isaac's misdirection, the outcome aligns with God's pre-ordained plan for the younger to rule the elder. This narrative underscores that while God does not condone sin, He is capable of working through the imperfections and even outright transgressions of humanity to accomplish His redemptive purposes. The irrevocability of the spoken blessing, once uttered, highlights the profound spiritual weight of words and the unchangeable nature of God's decrees, even when mediated through flawed human agents. Furthermore, the imagery of the "blessed field" connects spiritual favor to tangible prosperity and fruitfulness, reflecting the holistic Old Testament understanding of blessing encompassing both spiritual well-being and material flourishing, often tied to the covenant promises of land and descendants.

* [Romans 9:10-13](/romans/9-10-13 "God's Election of Jacob Over Esau")
* [Galatians 3:13-14](/galatians/3-13-14 "The Blessing of Abraham Comes Through Christ")
* [Hebrews 12:16-17](/hebrews/12-16-17 "Esau Sells His Birthright and Finds No Repentance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 27:27 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, urging us to consider the impact of our actions and the nature of divine providence. Firstly, it serves as a powerful reminder of the profound weight and lasting impact of our words. Just as Isaac's blessing, once spoken, was irrevocable, our words, whether blessings or curses, carry significant spiritual and relational power. We are called to use our speech to build up, encourage, and impart life, recognizing the potential for both immense good and lasting harm. Secondly, while God's sovereign purposes will always prevail, the story cautions vehemently against resorting to deceit, manipulation, or "fleshly" means to achieve desired outcomes, even if we believe them to align with God's will. Jacob's subsequent flight from Esau and his later experience of being deceived by Laban serve as stark reminders that deceptive means often lead to painful consequences and prolonged periods of hardship. Instead, we are called to trust in God's perfect timing and methods, relying on His providence and righteous ways rather than our own schemes. Finally, the evocative imagery of "a field which the LORD hath blessed" encourages us to cultivate an awareness and appreciation for God's abundant provision and favor in our lives, recognizing His hand in both spiritual and material blessings, and living in gratitude for His overflowing grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this passage challenge your understanding of God's sovereignty working through human sin and imperfection?**
* **In what ways might we be tempted to use "Jacob's methods" (deception or manipulation) to achieve outcomes we believe are good or even divinely ordained? What are the potential consequences of such actions?**
* **Reflect on the power of your own words. How can you be more intentional about speaking blessings and life into the lives of others, rather than words that tear down or deceive?**
* **What does "the smell of a field which the LORD hath blessed" symbolize for you in terms of God's provision and favor in your life today?**

### FAQ
**Why did Isaac rely on smell to confirm Jacob's identity, especially after expressing doubts about his voice?**

Answer: Isaac was elderly and completely blind, rendering his sense of sight useless. This forced him to rely heavily on his other senses to interact with the world and, in this critical moment, to verify his son's identity. While he initially harbored suspicion due to Jacob's voice not matching Esau's, stating, "The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau" [Genesis 27:22 "Isaac's Suspicion of Jacob's Voice"], he proceeded to feel Jacob's hands and neck, which were covered with goat skins to mimic Esau's hairiness. However, it was the distinct and familiar scent of Esau's hunting clothes, which Jacob was wearing, that provided the final, convincing sensory evidence. Esau's raiment would have carried the "smell of the field" from his outdoor life as a hunter, a scent deeply associated with Isaac's elder son. This powerful and familiar aroma, combined with the tactile confirmation, overcame Isaac's lingering doubts about the voice, leading him to believe he was indeed blessing Esau.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Jacob, the younger and seemingly less deserving son, receiving the patriarchal blessing through deceptive means, yet in fulfillment of God's sovereign decree that "the elder shall serve the younger" [Genesis 25:23 "God's Prophecy to Rebekah"], profoundly foreshadows the nature of God's grace and the unexpected path of salvation in Christ. Just as Jacob received an inheritance not based on his merit or primogeniture, so too does God choose those who are not naturally preeminent or "first" in the world's eyes to receive His ultimate blessing in Christ. Christ Himself is the true and ultimate "seed" of Abraham, through whom all the families of the earth are blessed, fulfilling the Abrahamic covenant not through human deception or earned merit, but through His perfect obedience, sacrificial life, and atoning death [Galatians 3:8 "Abrahamic Blessing for Gentiles"]. He is the one who truly embodies the "smell of a field which the LORD hath blessed," bringing forth spiritual fruitfulness and eternal abundance to all who are united with Him by grace through faith [Ephesians 1:3-6 "Spiritual Blessings in Christ"]. Through Christ, we, who were once "far off," are brought near and receive an eternal inheritance and spiritual blessings far greater and more secure than any earthly patriarchal blessing, becoming co-heirs with Him [Ephesians 2:13 "Brought Near by the Blood of Christ"]; [Romans 8:17 "Heirs with Christ"]. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, making us heirs of the true, unfading blessing [John 1:29 "Jesus, the Lamb of 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

Hebrews 6:7

For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God:

Psalms 65:10

Thou waterest the ridges thereof abundantly: thou settlest the furrows thereof: thou makest it soft with showers: thou blessest the springing thereof.

Genesis 26:12

¶ Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him.

Hosea 14:6

His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon.

Hosea 14:7

They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive [as] the corn, and grow as the vine: the scent thereof [shall be] as the wine of Lebanon.

Song Of Solomon 7:12

Let us get up early to the vineyards; let us see if the vine flourish, [whether] the tender grape appear, [and] the pomegranates bud forth: there will I give thee my loves.

Song Of Solomon 7:13

The mandrakes give a smell, and at our gates [are] all manner of pleasant [fruits], new and old, [which] I have laid up for thee, O my beloved.