Translations
Original
Notes
For 20 years, Rebekah could not have children (compare 25:20, 26), similar to Sarah (see 16:1). This condition tested their faith (see study note on 16:1–3). How could they be childless when God promised that nations would come from them?
Isaac begged the Lord for help, and the Lord answered his prayer. Isaac seemed to learn from his father's mistake and acted with faith.
Jacob’s struggle to be greater than his brother began before the twins were born (see Hosea 12:3).
Parallels
People
Isaac: Son of Abraham; father of Jacob and Esau Rebekah: Wife of Isaac; mother of Jacob and Esau
Glossary
Barrenness Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Birthright Ebla Tablets Genesis, Book of Mishma Nathanael Patriarchs, Period of the Rebecca, Rebekah
Topics
Barren Women Barrenness: Miraculously Removed: Rebecca Blessing: Temporal Blessings, Prayer For: Isaac Children in Answer to Prayer: Isaac Children: Often Given in Answer to Prayer Conception: Miraculous: Rebekah Esau: Birth of Getting Pregnant Having a Baby Isaac: The Miraculous Son of Abraham: Esau and Jacob Born To Isaac: The Miraculous Son of Abraham: His Devoutness IVF Jacob: Given in Answer to Prayer Miracles: Catalogue of The Conception of Jacob and Esau Rebekah (Rebecca): Mother of Esau and Jacob The Fetus