Today's Reading from Toldot:
Genesis 28:5-9
This short passage ends a sort of first chapter in the story of Jacob and Esau. Jacob has now received the birthright, the blessing of his father and the Abrahamic blessing as well (Gen. 28:1-4). Isaac then sends Jacob on a journey to distant family members to find a wife from among his own people.
Esau, seeing this, decides that the reason he is not receiving more from his father is because he has married Canaanite women (Gen. 28:6 and Gen. 28:8). His solution to this perceived problem? He takes a third wife, this time from Ishmael's family line. We are not told whether Isaac and Ishmael were on better terms by this time. However, the fact remains that Esau perceives the problem (his lack of blessing) on a purely earthly level (his choice of wives). He then proceeds to try to remedy the situation using earthly logic - add a new (improved?) wife. I like the way The Bible Knowledge Commentary puts it: "Ironically the unchosen son of Isaac married into the unchosen line of Ishmael!"* This commentary goes on to explain that this further indicates Esau's lack of understanding of the Abrahamic Covenant, which in turn would seem to underscore his lack of fitness to lead his people.
My prayer today is that I would approach life's problems with heavenly eyes. May I learn to seek divine wisdom instead of relying on earthly reasoning.
Next: Haftorah: Malachi 1:1-2:7
*Walvoord, J. F., Zuck, R. B., & Dallas Theological Seminary. (1983-). The Bible knowledge commentary : An exposition of the scriptures (Ge 28:6–9). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
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