Until thy brother's anger turn away from thee, and he forget that which thou hast done to him: then I will send, and fetch thee from thence: why should I be deprived also of you both in one day?
GENESIS 27:45KJVWhat does Genesis 27:45 mean?
Genesis 27:45 shows Rebekah telling her son Jacob to stay away until Esau’s anger cools down and he forgets what Jacob did to him. Rebekah promises to send for Jacob when it is safe, explaining that she does not want to lose both her sons in a single day.
In this verse, Rebekah is speaking to Jacob after he has deceived his brother Esau and their father Isaac. She fears Esau’s anger could lead to violence against Jacob. Rebekah’s words reveal her deep concern for both sons and her hope that time will heal Esau’s anger, allowing Jacob to return home safely.
The Hebrew behind Genesis 27:45
- "anger" (אַף, ’af): This word often refers to strong anger or wrath, and in Hebrew, it literally means "nose," which can suggest the flaring of nostrils in anger. Here, it emphasizes the intensity of Esau’s feelings.
- "forget" (שָׁכַח, shakach): This word means to lose memory of something or to let go of a grievance. Rebekah is hoping that Esau will not just calm down, but truly move past the betrayal.
- "deprived" (שָׁכַל, shakal): This word can mean to be bereaved or to lose children. Rebekah’s use of it highlights her fear of losing both sons—either through Esau killing Jacob or through Esau being punished for such an act.
Why Genesis 27:45 matters
- This verse clarifies that Rebekah’s plan for Jacob to flee is meant to be temporary, not permanent exile, showing her hope for family reconciliation.
- The verse highlights the seriousness of the conflict between Jacob and Esau, and the real danger Jacob faces, which is not just emotional but potentially life-threatening.
- Rebekah’s words reveal the emotional cost of the family’s deception and favoritism, connecting this moment to the broader themes of loss, family bonds, and consequences that run through Genesis.