Old Testament
Genesis 27:46
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then Rebekah said to Isaac, "I am sick of living because of these Hittite women. If Jacob marries one of the Hittite women from this land, like these local girls, what reason would I have to go on living?"
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And Rebekah said to Isaac, I am weary of my life because of the daughters of Heth: if Jacob take a wife of the daughters of Heth, such as these which are of the daughters of the land, what good shall my life do me?
What Genesis 27:46 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Rebekah expresses her deep frustration and despair to Isaac. She feels overwhelmed by the thought of Jacob marrying local Hittite women, who do not share their values or beliefs. For Rebekah, the idea of her son marrying someone from this culture is unbearable. She believes that if Jacob chooses a Hittite wife, it would make her life meaningless. Her words reflect a mother's concern for her child's future and the importance of shared values in relationships. Rebekah's emotional plea highlights the weight of cultural identity and the impact of marriage choices on family dynamics. This moment reveals her desperation and the lengths she will go to protect her family’s legacy. It’s a reminder of how deeply personal choices can affect our lives and relationships, and how we often seek to guide our loved ones toward what we believe is best for them. Rebekah’s feelings resonate with anyone who has ever worried about the choices of those they love, especially when those choices seem to threaten their values.
How to apply Genesis 27:46 to your life
Consider the values that guide your relationships. Are you surrounding yourself with people who share your beliefs and support your goals? Reflect on how your choices impact not just you, but also those who care about you. It's important to communicate openly with loved ones about your concerns and aspirations. This can strengthen your connections and help you navigate difficult decisions together.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jacob's story: Jacob Flees from Esau (Genesis 27:41–28:5)
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Jacob
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 27:46 mean?
Genesis 27:46 shows Rebekah expressing her distress over the possibility of her son Jacob marrying Hittite women. She feels that such a marriage would undermine their family's values and make her life feel meaningless.
What is the significance of Rebekah's words in Genesis 27:46?
Rebekah's words highlight her deep concern for her son's future and the importance of cultural identity in marriage. Her plea reflects a mother's desire to protect her family's legacy and values.
What does Rebekah mean by being 'sick of living' in Genesis 27:46?
When Rebekah says she is 'sick of living,' she expresses her despair and frustration over the thought of Jacob marrying local Hittite women, indicating that such a choice would deeply affect her happiness and sense of purpose.
How does Genesis 27:46 relate to family values?
Genesis 27:46 illustrates the impact of marriage choices on family dynamics and values. Rebekah's concern for Jacob's potential marriage to Hittite women emphasizes the importance of shared beliefs in maintaining family identity.
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