Genesis 28:5

Isaac sent away Jacob, &c.— It has been generally supposed, though without any warrant from the text, that Isaac sent away this son, the heir of the promise, to walk quite alone all this long journey into Syria. I cannot conceive, that even in those times, simple as they were, such a step would have been taken: and I apprehend, that the reason which is given for this proceeding in Isaac and Rebekah rather proves the contrary: they sent him away privately, it is supposed, through fear of Esau. Now it is evident that Esau knew perfectly well the whole scheme, (see Genesis 28:6.) and consequently could not have had a fairer opportunity to kill his brother, than in this solitary and unattended journey, as it has been thought. It is therefore much more reasonable to believe, that he was accompanied with presents, and with proper servants, sufficient to defend him from any attacks: nor can one hardly conceive that Abraham would send his servants with camels, &c. and Isaac dismiss his son, the heir of the promise, with his staff only in his hand. Add to this, that from Genesis 28:18 it appears he had oil with him, more than sufficient for his own use, as he employed it to other purposes. And as a further confirmation of this opinion, I would observe, that he must have had provisions with him for his journey, as there were no inns or public places of reception; and it is not to be imagined that he was able, (circumstanced as he must have been,) or, if he had been able, that it was proper for him to have travelled alone. These reasons will serve, the more they are weighed, to confute the popular opinion.

REFLECTIONS.—Rebekah's advice, we find, prevailed on Isaac; and, now Jacob is sent away into a distant land, expecting a lingering exile. Note; Those who are God's people must expect the cross with the crown, the suffering with the blessing. Observe,

1. The charge given him, whither he should go, and for what purpose. Note; (1.) It is comfortable to have a godly friend's house, where we can find an asylum. (2.) It is our duty not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers.

2. The blessing bestowed on him. Isaac was now convinced it was God's will that the blessing should be Jacob's, and therefore confirms the promise. Fruitfulness and numbers should enlarge his house, and Abraham's emphatical blessing, the Messiah, spring from him. Though now a distant exile, the possession of Canaan is his own, and Esau's abode shall not affect his title. Note; Faith can trust more securely on the promise than any other tenure.

3. Jacob sets off without delay, unknowing when he shall return. Behold how God trains him up for greatness by humiliation, and teaches him to govern by his servitude: we find no murmuring at his lot. Note; If they who are reduced to the lowest ebb have the promise of God with them, they have enough to enrich and comfort them.