Genesis 27

Isaac Plans to Bless Esau (v.1–5):

Isaac, now old and nearly blind, decides to give the patriarchal blessing to Esau, his favored son.

He asks Esau to hunt and prepare a special meal before giving the blessing.

Rebekah’s Deception (v.6–17):

Rebekah, overhearing Isaac, devises a plan for Jacob to impersonate Esau.

She prepares a meal and dresses Jacob in Esau’s clothes, covering his hands and neck with goat skins to mimic Esau’s hairy skin.

Jacob Deceives Isaac (v.18–29):

Jacob goes to Isaac pretending to be Esau. Though Isaac is suspicious, he is eventually convinced.

Isaac blesses Jacob with the birthright blessing: prosperity, lordship over nations and brothers, and divine protection.

Esau’s Anguish and Secondary Blessing (v.30–40):

Moments after Jacob leaves, Esau arrives and discovers the deception.

He pleads for a blessing, but Isaac cannot undo what has been done.

Isaac gives Esau a lesser blessing, foretelling struggle, subservience to Jacob, and eventual freedom.

Esau’s Anger and Jacob’s Escape (v.41–46):

Esau vows to kill Jacob once their father dies.

Rebekah urges Jacob to flee to her brother Laban in Haran, and she tells Isaac she wants Jacob to marry within their kin, not among the Hittites.

Key Themes:
God’s Sovereign Choice vs. Human Deceit: God had already chosen Jacob, but Rebekah and Jacob used deceit rather than trusting God's plan.

Family Dysfunction: Favoritism, deception, and broken trust dominate this chapter, leading to division and pain.

The Power of Blessing: Isaac’s spoken blessing had lasting, spiritual weight—it could not be undone once given.

Consequences of Sin: Though God’s plan advances, the deception leads to exile, anger, and long-term conflict.