Genesis 27:17 (KJV)

What does Genesis 27:17 mean?

Genesis 27:17 describes Rebekah giving Jacob the tasty food and bread she had prepared, placing them directly into his hands. This action sets up Jacob to bring the meal to his father Isaac, as part of their plan for Jacob to receive his father’s blessing.

In this scene, Rebekah is actively helping her son Jacob carry out a deception. She has cooked food that Isaac enjoys and gives it to Jacob so he can pretend to be his brother Esau. The verse highlights Rebekah’s involvement and the practical steps she takes to help Jacob carry out the plan.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 27:17

• "gave" (נָתַן, natan): This word often means to hand over or deliver something intentionally. Here, it emphasizes Rebekah’s deliberate action in equipping Jacob for the task.
• "meat" (מַטְעַמִּים, matʿammim): This word refers to specially prepared, flavorful food, not just ordinary meat. It shows that Rebekah made the meal appealing to Isaac’s tastes, which was important for the plan’s success.
• "hand" (יָד, yad): In Hebrew, placing something “into the hand” of someone often means giving them full responsibility or control. Rebekah is not just handing over food; she is entrusting Jacob with the next step of their scheme.

Why Genesis 27:17 matters

• This verse makes clear that Rebekah is not just giving advice but is directly involved in the deception, taking practical steps to help Jacob.
• The detail about the “savoury meat” and bread shows the careful planning behind the scheme, making it more likely that Isaac will be convinced.
• Understanding this verse helps explain how Jacob is able to approach Isaac so convincingly, setting up the dramatic events that follow in the chapter.