Genesis 27:36 Meaning and Explanation
“And he said, Is not he rightly named Jacob? for he hath supplanted me these two times: he took away my birthright; and, behold, now he hath taken away my blessing. And he said, Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Esau points out that Jacob's name means 'supplanter,' and he recalls that Jacob previously bought his birthright and has now also taken his blessing.
The Context of Genesis 27:36
Esau recognizes the pattern of Jacob's supplanting and begs for some blessing for himself.
What Does Genesis 27:36 Mean?
Esau's response shows his awareness of the deeper pattern. In Genesis 25, Jacob had purchased Esau's birthright in exchange for food—a transaction Esau made carelessly. Now Jacob has deceived their father to take the blessing as well. Esau sees this as a continuation of a pattern: Jacob supplanting him, taking what is rightfully his.
Esau's final question—'Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me?'—carries both accusation and desperation. He is asking if there is anything left for him, any consolation or secondary blessing that Isaac can still pronounce.
Genesis 27:36 in the Original Language
eqeb (עקב), 'supplanted' — held by the heel, from the word for heel; Jacob's name means 'he grasps the heel.'
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 27:36
What does Genesis 27:36 mean?
Esau points out that Jacob's name means 'supplanter,' and he recalls that Jacob previously bought his birthright and has now also taken his blessing.
What is the context of Genesis 27:36?
Esau recognizes the pattern of Jacob's supplanting and begs for some blessing for himself.