Genesis 27:39

Behold, &c. Isaac's utterance again takes the form of poetry. His prediction as to Esau's future is contained in 6 strophes; 1 and 2 refer to the physical conditions of the nation's existence; 3 to its manner of life; 4 to its temporary subjection to Israel; 5 to its revolt; 6 to its ultimate independence.

of Better, as R.V. marg., away from. The Heb. preposition min, "from," admits of both renderings. The oracle is intentionally ambiguous. In Genesis 27:28 (" ofthe dew … ofthe fatness") there can be no doubt the preposition is used in its partitive sense, (a) The English versions in this verse translate minby "of," as in Genesis 27:28. It might be expected that a preposition used by the same person, with the same nouns, and in a similar context in the same passage, would be identical in meaning. According to this rendering, Isaac promises to Esau a country blessed with rich soil and favourable physical conditions: but he cannot promise a settled or happy government; only a struggle for existence, a temporary servitude, and final freedom. This interpretation, however, seems to miss the point of Isaac's prediction as to the future material conditions of Esau's lot. The land of Edom was rugged and mountainous; Esau will live by the sword, not by the fertility of the soil.

(b) It is better to follow the margin, "away from"; cf. 2 Samuel 1:22. Isaac has really only one blessing; cf. Genesis 27:33. Esau's future will not be as Jacob's. His country in Mount Seir will not be rich and fertile, like the land of Canaan. His people will not be peaceful cultivators of the soil; they will dwell in the mountains, and get their livelihood as robbers. Edom will serve Israel; but only for a time. This is the climax of the prediction. In spite of hardships, in spite of social inferiority, and in spite of subjugation, Edom shall at last win freedom. According to this interpretation, Isaac's words contain no soft blessing; but a stern, truthful, continuous prediction, describing (1) the barrenness and aridity of the soil of Edom, (2) the warlike temper of the people, (3) their subjugation to Israel, (4) their ultimate revolt and freedom.

The blessing of Jacob excludes the blessing of Esau; but does not shut out the hope of successful rebellion against the favoured brother. The play of words, produced by the different use of the same preposition, is what might be expected in the language of an ancient oracle; and is quite congenial to the genius of Heb. literature. For the oracular and different use of the same words, cf. Genesis 40:13; Genesis 40:19.

fatness … dew of heaven See note on Genesis 27:28.