Romans 9:10
And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac;
Original Language Analysis
ἀλλὰ
this but
G235
ἀλλὰ
this but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
4 of 14
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἐξ
by
G1537
ἐξ
by
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
7 of 14
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
κοίτην
had conceived
G2845
κοίτην
had conceived
Strong's:
G2845
Word #:
9 of 14
a couch; by extension, cohabitation; by implication, the male sperm
ἔχουσα
G2192
ἔχουσα
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
10 of 14
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
Genesis 25:19-26 records the oracle to Rebecca during pregnancy: 'Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger' (Genesis 25:23). God's choice preceded birth.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the Rebecca example eliminate every possible ground for election except God's sovereign choice?
- Why is it crucial that God's choice was made 'from one' conception rather than different mothers?
- What does this teach about the timing of election (before birth, before works)?
Analysis & Commentary
And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac—Paul escalates the argument. The Ishmael/Isaac distinction might be explained by different mothers (slave vs. free), but the next example removes that variable. Rebecca conceived twins ex henos (ἐξ ἑνός, 'from one man'), Isaac. Same father, same mother, same conception—yet God chose between them. This intensifies the sovereignty theme.
The phrase koitēn echousa (κοίτην ἔχουσα, 'having conception') emphasizes the unity: one act of conception produced both sons. No external factor differentiates them—not parentage, not chronology of conception, not prenatal behavior. Yet God elected Jacob before birth. The ground of election must be God's sovereign will alone, not foreseen merit.