Romans 9:13 Meaning and Explanation
“As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Paul cites the prophet: God set His covenant love on Jacob and turned away from Esau.
What Does Romans 9:13 Mean?
Paul seals the example with words from the prophet Malachi, spoken long after the brothers lived and concerning the nations that came from them. In the manner of Hebrew speech, to love one and hate another is to choose one over the other, to set covenant affection on Jacob and to pass Esau by. The statement looks back on a whole history, not merely on two infants.
The strong word hated jars modern ears, but its sense here is comparative: God's electing love rested on Jacob's line. What Paul wants the reader to see is that the covenant advanced by God's gracious choosing, not by human merit. We need not resolve every shadow in this verse to receive its center: the love of God lays hold of a people by grace, and all who are gathered to Christ are gathered by that same undeserved love.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 9:13
What does Romans 9:13 mean?
Paul cites the prophet: God set His covenant love on Jacob and turned away from Esau.