Genesis 25:21 (KJV)

What does Genesis 25:21 mean?

Genesis 25:21 tells how Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife Rebekah because she could not have children, and the LORD answered his prayer, allowing Rebekah to conceive. This verse shows a moment where Isaac’s request is heard and responded to by God, resulting in the beginning of the next generation.

In this verse, Isaac is the one praying, and he is specifically asking for help for his wife Rebekah, who is described as barren. The verse highlights both Isaac’s dependence on God and God’s willingness to respond. This event takes place before the birth of Jacob and Esau, setting the stage for the family line that will become central in the rest of Genesis.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 25:21

• The word “intreated” comes from the Hebrew עָתַר (ʿāṯar), which means to plead or pray earnestly. This word is used twice in the verse, emphasizing Isaac’s persistence and the LORD’s positive response.
• The word “barren” is עָקָר (ʿāqār), meaning unable to have children. This highlights the seriousness of Rebekah’s situation and the significance of God’s intervention.
• The word “conceived” is הָרָה (hārāh), meaning to become pregnant. This word marks the turning point in the verse, showing that the prayer was effective and resulted in new life.

Why Genesis 25:21 matters

• Genesis 25:21 shows that Isaac, like his father Abraham, faced the challenge of a barren wife, connecting their stories and underlining the theme of God’s promise being fulfilled despite human obstacles.
• The verse emphasizes the importance of prayer and God’s direct involvement in the lives of the patriarchs, showing that the continuation of the chosen family line depends on God’s action.
• By focusing on Rebekah’s barrenness and God’s response, the verse sets up the significance of the children to be born—Jacob and Esau—whose story will shape the rest of Genesis.