“And Isaac answered and said unto Esau, Behold, I have made him thy lord, and all his brethren have I given to him for servants; and with corn and wine have I sustained him: and what shall I do now unto thee, my son?”
This verse is part of the narrative of Jacob and Esau, twin brothers who were the sons of Isaac and Rebecca. The context of this verse is important to understand its significance.
In the preceding verses, Jacob, with the help of his mother Rebecca, deceived his father Isaac in order to obtain the blessing that was traditionally given to the eldest son, Esau. Esau, who was the firstborn, had already sold his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of lentil stew, and now the blessing, which included the inheritance of their father’s possessions and a special divine favour, had been given to Jacob instead.
When Esau discovered what had happened, he was distraught and filled with anger. In Genesis 27:34-36, we see Esau pleading with his father to bless him as well, but Isaac explains that he has already given everything to Jacob. Then comes Genesis 27:37, where Isaac further elaborates on the situation.
Isaac acknowledges that he has made Jacob Esau’s lord:and he has given Jacob’s brothers as servants to him. He mentions that he has sustained Jacob with provisions of corn and wine. Isaac is essentially conveying to Esau that he has already bestowed great blessings and privileges upon Jacob, leaving little or nothing to give to Esau.
This verse highlights the consequences of Esau’s previous actions. By selling his birthright, which represented his position as the firstborn and the associated privileges, Esau had relinquished his rights and authority within the family. Now, the blessings and inheritance that Isaac had intended for Esau have been transferred to Jacob. Isaac’s words reflect the irreversible nature of his decision:and express his uncertainty regarding what more he can do for Esau.
This passage serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of valuing and respecting our inheritance and birthright. Esau’s impulsive and short-sighted decision had long-lasting ramifications for his life. It reminds us to be thoughtful and considerate in our choices, particularly regarding matters of great significance.
Furthermore, this episode also reveals the sovereignty of God in the affairs of humanity. Despite Jacob’s deceptive actions, God had foreseen the future and chosen Jacob to fulfill His divine purposes. The story of Jacob and Esau illustrates how God’s plans and promises prevail even in the midst of human failings and shortcomings.
In conclusion, Genesis 27:37 showcases the aftermath of Jacob obtaining the blessing meant for Esau:It reveals the irreversible consequences of Esau’s previous actions and highlights the importance of valuing and respecting our inheritances. It also underscores the sovereignty of God in working out His purposes in the lives of individuals and the world.
