Genesis 27:28

Authorized King James Version

Therefore God give thee of the dew of heaven, and the fatness of the earth, and plenty of corn and wine:

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְיִֽתֶּן

H5414

give

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

לְךָ֙

הָֽאֱלֹהִ֔ים

H430

Therefore God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

מִטַּל֙

H2919

thee of the dew

dew (as covering vegetation)

הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם

H8064

of heaven

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

וּמִשְׁמַנֵּ֖י

H4924

and the fatness

fat, i.e., (literally and abstractly) fatness; but usually (figuratively and concretely) a rich dish, a fertile field, a robust man

הָאָ֑רֶץ

H776

of the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

וְרֹ֥ב

H7230

and plenty

abundance (in any respect)

דָּגָ֖ן

H1715

of corn

properly, increase, i.e., grain

#10

וְתִירֹֽשׁ׃

H8492

and wine

must or fresh grape-juice (as just squeezed out); by implication (rarely) fermented wine

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The divine name or title here functions within foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the patriarchal period (c. 2000-1500 BCE) and primeval history provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The ancient Near Eastern world with its creation myths, flood narratives, and patriarchal social structures provided the cultural backdrop against which God's revelation stands in stark contrast. The ancient Near Eastern cosmology and patriarchal society would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Ancient Near Eastern creation texts like Enuma Elish provide comparative context for understanding Genesis's unique theological perspective.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources

Biblical Timeline