“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.”
This verse is part of the narrative in Genesis that describes the account of the birth of Jacob and Esau, the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. It is a significant verse as it highlights God’s foreknowledge and His plan for these two brothers and their descendants.
Two Nations and Two Manner of People:God reveals to Rebekah that there are two nations and two distinct peoples within her womb. This indicates that Jacob and Esau’s descendants will eventually grow into two separate nations, each with its own characteristics, culture, and identity. This prophecy foreshadows the birth of the Israelites (Jacob’s descendants) and the Edomites (Esau’s descendants), who would become distinct peoples with different destinies and relationships with God.
The One People Shall be Stronger:God informs Rebekah that one people, referring to Jacob’s descendants, will be stronger than the other, referring to Esau’s descendants. This does not necessarily refer to physical strength but may encompass various aspects such as spiritual, social, or political strength. Historically, the Israelites, Jacob’s descendants, would indeed become a powerful nation under God’s guidance.
The Elder Shall Serve the Younger:This statement emphasizes a reversal of the traditional birthright and blessing, where the elder son would typically receive a greater inheritance and prominence. In this case, God reveals that the older twin, Esau, would serve the younger twin, Jacob. This prophecy is fulfilled later in the narrative when Jacob, through deception, obtains Esau’s birthright and blessing.
This verse demonstrates God’s sovereign control over human events and His ability to foresee and direct future outcomes. It also highlights God’s choice and election, as He designates Jacob as the one through whom His covenant and promises would continue. This verse sets the stage for the subsequent events in the lives of Jacob and Esau, revealing God’s unfolding plan for His chosen people.
