Genesis 27:6

KJV

¶ And Rebekah spake unto Jacob her son, saying, Behold, I heard thy father speak unto Esau thy brother, saying,

KJV (with Strong's)

And Rebekah {H7259} spake {H559} unto Jacob {H3290} her son {H1121}, saying {H559}, Behold, I heard {H8085} thy father {H1} speak {H1696} unto Esau {H6215} thy brother {H251}, saying {H559},

Complete Jewish Bible

she said to her son Ya'akov, "Listen! I heard your father telling 'Esav your brother,

Berean Standard Bible

Rebekah said to her son Jacob, “Behold, I overheard your father saying to your brother Esau,

American Standard Version

And Rebekah spake unto Jacob her son, saying, Behold, I heard thy father speak unto Esau thy brother, saying,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 27:6 initiates a pivotal moment in the patriarchal narrative, as Rebekah strategically overhears Isaac's private instructions to Esau regarding the imminent patriarchal blessing. This verse sets in motion Rebekah's elaborate plan to secure the blessing for Jacob, fundamentally altering the trajectory of their lives and the lineage of the covenant promise, driven by her conviction and a complex web of familial dynamics.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 27:6 serves as the immediate catalyst for the dramatic deception that unfolds in the remainder of Genesis 27. Prior to this, the narrative has meticulously established the strained family dynamics: Isaac's favoritism for Esau, the skilled hunter, contrasted with Rebekah's preference for Jacob, the quiet dweller of tents, as noted in [Genesis 25:28](/genesis/25-28 "Isaac and Rebekah's Favoritism"). Crucially, Esau had already demonstrated his disregard for his spiritual inheritance by selling his birthright to Jacob for a mere bowl of stew in [Genesis 25:29-34](/genesis/25-29-34 "Esau Sells His Birthright"). Furthermore, Rebekah herself had received a divine prophecy before the twins' birth, declaring that "[the elder shall serve the younger](/genesis/25-23 "The Prophecy of Jacob and Esau")" ([Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "Rebekah's Prophecy")). With Isaac now old, blind, and believing his death was near, he had called Esau to prepare a special meal, intending to bestow the irrevocable patriarchal blessing upon him ([Genesis 27:1-4](/genesis/27-1-4 "Isaac Prepares to Bless Esau")). Rebekah's "overhearing" of this private conversation is not accidental but a strategic moment that she immediately exploits to ensure what she believes is the divinely ordained outcome.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the patriarchal blessing was a deeply significant and legally binding pronouncement, often delivered by the dying patriarch, conveying spiritual authority, material inheritance, and the family's future destiny. It was typically reserved for the firstborn son, who held the birthright. The act of "blessing" was understood to be potent and irrevocable, believed to carry the power of the one pronouncing it, often invoking divine favor. The cultural norms of the time placed immense importance on lineage and the transfer of blessings through the male head of the household. Deception, while not condoned, was a recurring theme in ancient narratives, often employed by those seeking to gain an advantage or fulfill a perceived destiny. Rebekah's actions, though morally questionable, reflect a cultural understanding of the blessing's power and her desperate attempt to secure it for her favored son, perhaps also influenced by her knowledge of the divine prophecy concerning her children.

* **Key Themes:** This verse is central to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the theme of **divine sovereignty versus human agency**, as Rebekah attempts to "help" God's prophecy come to pass through deceptive means, rather than trusting His timing and methods. The pervasive theme of **familial strife and dysfunction** is also prominent, fueled by **parental favoritism** (Isaac for Esau, Rebekah for Jacob), which creates an environment ripe for manipulation and competition. Furthermore, the narrative explores the **nature of the patriarchal blessing** itself—its immense value, its irrevocability, and God's ability to work through imperfect human actions to achieve His ultimate purposes. Rebekah's immediate response to Isaac's words underscores the urgency and perceived importance of securing this blessing for Jacob, aligning with the earlier divine declaration that "[the elder shall serve the younger](/genesis/25-23 "The Prophecy of the Twin Nations")" ([Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "Rebekah's Divine Oracle")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Rebekah (Hebrew, _Ribqâh'_):** From an unused root likely meaning "to clog by tying up the fetlock," suggesting "fettering (by beauty)." This name, while not directly tied to her actions in this verse, subtly hints at her powerful influence and ability to "tie up" or manipulate situations, which she certainly does here. Her beauty, implied in the name's etymology, is less relevant here than her strategic cunning.
* **spake (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** A primitive root meaning "to say" with great latitude, encompassing appointing, commanding, declaring, demanding, and using speech. Here, it describes Rebekah's decisive and intentional communication with Jacob. It's not a casual remark but a direct, purposeful instruction that initiates the deceptive plan. Her "saying" is an act of will and direction, setting the entire plot in motion.
* **heard (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** A primitive root meaning "to hear intelligently," often implying attention, obedience, or understanding. In this context, Rebekah's "hearing" is not passive; it signifies active listening and comprehension of the gravity of Isaac's words to Esau. She discerns the full implication of Isaac's intent to bless Esau, which immediately triggers her strategic response, demonstrating her sharp intellect and proactive nature.
* **father (Hebrew, _ʼâb'_):** A primitive word meaning "father," literally or figuratively, also chief or principal. Here, it refers to Isaac, the patriarch, whose authority and intention to bless Esau are central to the unfolding drama. Rebekah's reference to "thy father" emphasizes the patriarchal authority and the specific familial relationship that is about to be exploited and manipulated.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Rebekah spake unto Jacob her son, saying":** This opening clause immediately establishes Rebekah as the primary agent of action following her overhearing of Isaac. Her communication with Jacob is direct and purposeful, indicating her resolve to intervene in the blessing process. The phrase "her son" highlights the intimate familial bond and her maternal concern, which, though perhaps well-intentioned in her mind, leads her to employ deceptive means.
* **"Behold, I heard thy father speak unto Esau thy brother, saying":** This is the crucial revelation. Rebekah informs Jacob that she was an active listener ("I heard") to a private conversation between Isaac ("thy father") and Esau ("thy brother"). The use of "Behold" (often translated "Look" or "Pay attention") underscores the urgency and significance of the information she is about to impart. She has gleaned critical intelligence about Isaac's plan to bless Esau, setting the stage for her counter-plan. This clause frames the entire deception as a direct response to Isaac's intentions.

#### Literary Devices
The verse makes effective use of **Dialogue** and **Foreshadowing**. The direct speech of Rebekah to Jacob ("Behold, I heard...") immediately draws the reader into the unfolding drama, making the narrative feel immediate and urgent. This dialogue is not merely informative but performative, initiating the entire plot of deception. Furthermore, the verse functions as powerful **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the elaborate scheme that Rebekah and Jacob are about to undertake. The revelation that Rebekah "heard" Isaac's private conversation with Esau immediately signals to the reader that this information will be used to manipulate events, setting up the conflict and the subsequent narrative of trickery and its consequences. The tension is built through the implication of secret knowledge and impending action.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 27:6 is a microcosm of the complex interplay between divine purpose and human action. While God had already declared His intention for Jacob to be preeminent over Esau ([Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "The Divine Prophecy to Rebekah")), Rebekah's decision to resort to deception demonstrates a lack of trust in God's ability to fulfill His promises through righteous means and in His own timing. This narrative highlights the human tendency to manipulate circumstances to achieve a desired outcome, even when that outcome might align with a divine decree. It raises profound questions about the ethics of "helping" God and the often-destructive consequences of using unrighteous means for what is perceived as a righteous end. Despite the sin involved, the story ultimately testifies to God's unwavering sovereignty, as He works through human imperfection and even sin to accomplish His ultimate redemptive purposes.

* [Proverbs 19:21](/proverbs/19-21 "Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails.")
* [Romans 9:10-13](/romans/9-10-13 "Paul's Discussion of Jacob and Esau")
* [Hebrews 11:20](/hebrews/11-20 "Isaac Blesses Jacob and Esau by Faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative initiated by Rebekah's actions in Genesis 27:6 serves as a powerful cautionary tale against the use of deception and manipulation, even when seemingly motivated by a desire to align with God's will. While God's ultimate plan for Jacob was indeed fulfilled, the means employed by Rebekah and Jacob led to profound relational brokenness, years of estrangement, and significant hardship for all involved. This passage encourages believers to cultivate a deep trust in God's perfect timing and His righteous methods, rather than resorting to dishonest shortcuts or human contrivances. It reminds us that God is sovereign and capable of accomplishing His purposes without our sinful "help." Furthermore, the story underscores the detrimental impact of parental favoritism, which creates an environment of division, competition, and distrust within families, serving as a timeless lesson for fostering healthy and harmonious family relationships rooted in truth and impartiality.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Rebekah's decision to "help" God's prophecy unfold challenge our own tendencies to manipulate circumstances rather than trusting divine timing?**
* **What are the long-term consequences of deception, even when a desired outcome is achieved, as illustrated by Jacob's subsequent life?**
* **In what ways can parental favoritism, even if unintentional, create an environment of division and unhealthy competition within a family?**

### FAQ
**Did Rebekah's actions negate God's prophecy?**

Answer: No, Rebekah's actions did not negate God's prophecy that "[the elder shall serve the younger](/genesis/25-23 "The Prophecy to Rebekah")" ([Genesis 25:23](/genesis/25-23 "Read the Prophecy in Genesis 25")). Instead, the narrative powerfully demonstrates God's sovereignty in working through human imperfection and even sin to accomplish His purposes. While Rebekah and Jacob's deception was morally wrong and led to significant negative consequences for the family, God still brought about the intended outcome. This illustrates that God's plans are not dependent on human righteousness but can prevail despite human failings, showcasing His ultimate control over history and salvation.

**Is it ever acceptable to deceive for a "good" outcome?**

Answer: The biblical narrative, particularly this account, consistently portrays deception as a negative act with detrimental consequences, even when seemingly motivated by a desire to fulfill God's will. While God can sovereignly work through such actions, the Bible does not endorse them. The consistent principle throughout Scripture is to walk in truth and integrity, trusting God's methods and timing rather than resorting to dishonest means. [Proverbs 12:22](/proverbs/12-22 "Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord") explicitly states, "[Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord](/proverbs/12-22 "Proverbs 12:22 - Truthfulness"), but those who deal truthfully are His delight." The long-term suffering, familial division, and personal hardship resulting from Rebekah's deception serve as a strong cautionary tale against using unrighteous means for a perceived righteous end.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Jacob and the stolen blessing, initiated by Rebekah's strategic intervention in [Genesis 27:6](/genesis/27-6 "Rebekah's Plan"), ultimately points to Christ by highlighting the profound inadequacy of human striving and deception to secure divine favor. While Jacob obtained the patriarchal blessing through contrivance and manipulation, the true, unmerited blessing comes through Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfills God's will without any deceit or manipulation. Unlike Jacob, who wrestled with God and men, often through cunning, Christ is the faithful Son who perfectly obeyed His Father, earning the ultimate blessing for humanity through His sacrificial obedience, not through trickery ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Christ's Obedience to Death")). The brokenness, estrangement, and long-term consequences within Jacob's family foreshadow the desperate need for a greater reconciler, found supremely in Christ, who brings true peace and restores broken relationships, not through human cunning, but through His atoning sacrifice and abundant grace ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Christ is Our Peace")). The promise made to Abraham, passed through Isaac and then Jacob, finds its ultimate "seed" and fulfillment in Jesus, through whom all nations are truly blessed and reconciled to God ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "The Seed of Abraham is Christ")).

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 25:28

And Isaac loved Esau, because he did eat of [his] venison: but Rebekah loved Jacob.