Devine Scripture

Genesis 27:21

What does Genesis 27:21 mean?

A plain-English look at Genesis 27:21 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Genesis 27:21 means

Despite Jacob's explanation, Isaac's suspicion persists because of the voice, prompting him to demand a closer, tactile examination. His instruction, "come near, I pray thee, that I may feel thee," highlights his reliance on touch due to his blindness. This moment increases the tension, as the success of the elaborate physical disguise, particularly the goatskins, will now be put to the ultimate test.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And Isaac said unto Jacob, Come near, I pray thee, that I may feel thee, my son, whether thou be my very son Esau or not.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And Isaac said unto Jacob, Come near, I pray thee, that I may feel thee, my son, whether thou be my very son Esau or not.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And Isaac said unto Jacob, Come near, I pray thee, that I may feel thee, my son, whether thou be my very son Esau or not.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And Isaac said, Come near so that I may put my hand on you, my son, and see if you are truly my son Esau or not.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And Isaac saith unto Jacob, `Come nigh, I pray thee, and I feel thee, my son, whether thou <FI>art<Fi> he, my son Esau, or not.'

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And Isaac said: Come hither, that I may feel thee, my son, and may prove whether thou be my son Esau, or no.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And Isaac said to Jacob, Come near, I pray thee, that I may feel thee, my son, whether thou be really my son Esau or not.

Context

Isaac's persistent doubt, expressed in this verse, immediately follows Jacob's explanation for the swift hunting. This command to come closer for a physical examination is critical, as it directly tests the effectiveness of Rebekah's goatskin disguise. This moment leads directly to the physical contact that will ultimately convince a hesitant Isaac.

v.20And Isaac said unto his son, How is it that thou hast found it so quickly, my son? And he said, Because Jehovah thy God sent me good speed.

v.21This passage

v.22And Jacob went near unto Isaac his father; and he felt him, and said, The voice is Jacob’s voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Genesis 27:12

    My father peradventure will feel me, and I shall seem to him as a deceiver; and I shall bring a curse upon me, and not a blessing.

  • James 4:8

    Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye doubleminded.

  • Isaiah 57:19

    I create the fruit of the lips: Peace, peace, to him that is far off and to him that is near, saith Jehovah; and I will heal him.

  • Psalms 73:28

    But it is good for me to draw near unto God: I have made the Lord Jehovah my refuge, That I may tell of all thy works.

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