Genesis 27:32Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Upon hearing Esau's words, he inquired: "Who are you?" Esau replied, "I am your son, your firstborn, Esau." It is noteworthy that in his contemplation of the situation, he did not simply respond with, "I am your son Esau," but emphasized, "the firstborn."

The father favors the elder while bestowing his blessing upon the younger. The Old Testament speaks of the Jews in a literal way, yet in a spiritual context, it conveys the blessing intended for Christians. Pay careful attention to this profound symbol, this significant sacrament. Isaac remarks, Thy brother came with guile—reflecting on a man who is without deceit. Gifted with prophetic insight, Isaac undoubtedly understood the situation at hand and transformed it: he placed everything upon the utmost pinnacle of the sacraments. For had he been unaware of what was occurring, he would certainly have expressed anger toward his son for the deception. The elder son approaches, saying, Arise, my father, and partake of your son’s game, that your soul may bless me.

Upon discovering that he had unintentionally bestowed a blessing upon Jacob instead of Esau, Isaac was filled with dismay, realizing that this blessing was irrevocable. He understood, "I will bless him, and he shall be blessed," recognizing that he spoke not merely as a human father but as a prophet inspired by the Holy Spirit. Later, he reaffirmed his blessing for Jacob when he permitted him to journey to Mesopotamia (Genesis 28:3-4). Isaac did not seem to express anger at Jacob for the deception; rather, he was aware of his own shortcomings. In his error, he perceived God’s disciplinary action due to his favoritism towards Esau, whom he wished to bless despite knowing his unworthiness and the divine revelation given to Rebekah concerning him prior to his birth.