MPV Commentary
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for Genesis 28
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for Genesis 28
1. Isaac called Jacob and blessed him, fully acknowledging Rebekah's feelings about their son's departure. He gave Jacob a solemn blessing, pronouncing it with a cordial spirit. This blessing was more explicit and comprehensive than before, and it acknowledged Jacob as the heir of God's promise.
6-9. When Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob, he became desperate to change his father's mind. He hoped to appease his parents by marrying into a family from Mesopotamia, but this only made things worse. Although he married outside Canaan, he joined a family rejected by God. This was a partial reformation, but it showed no genuine repentance. Esau still harbored vindictive intentions against Jacob and had not developed the pious spirit that would have pleased his father.
10. Jacob left his father's house in ignominious flight, fearing pursuit or ambush from his brother. To avoid danger, he took a lonely and unfrequented path, which made the journey longer and more perilous.
11. He arrived at Beth-el, about forty-eight miles from Beer-sheba, and had to spend the night in an open field. The soil was rocky, as indicated by the stones he used for a pillow.
12. Jacob fell asleep and dreamed of a ladder reaching from earth to heaven, with angels ascending and descending on it. Some interpret this vision as a mountain pile with scaling sides, but its purpose was clear: to comfort and encourage Jacob in his difficult circumstances and future prospects. The vision addressed Jacob's fears about God's forgiveness and abandonment.
13. The Lord stood above the ladder and spoke to Jacob, announcing His name and renewing the covenant. This assurance of personal protection had a profound effect on Jacob's mind.
16. When Jacob woke up, he was filled with solemn awe, fervent piety, and lively gratitude. His language and conduct reflected his deep reverence for God.
18-19. Jacob set up a stone as a memorial to mark the spot where he had this vision. He poured oil on it to consecrate it, giving it a new name: Beth-el, "the house of God." In warm countries, people often sit on stones or use them as altars for religious vows.