Holy Bible - Obsidian Study Guide

Isaac

2 min read

Isaac

Overview

Biography

Isaac was born to Abraham and Sarah when they were 100 and 90 years old — a miraculous child of God’s promise. Named “laughing,” he was the child Abraham was willing to sacrifice on Mount Moriah, where God provided a ram instead.

Isaac married Rebekah at age 40, arranged by Abraham’s servant. When Rebekah became pregnant, twins struggled within her. God revealed that two nations were in her womb and the older would serve the younger. Esau was born first, followed by Jacob grasping Esau’s heel.

Isaac repeated Abraham’s mistake of claiming his wife was his sister in Gerab. He favored Esau (a hunter) while Rebekah favored Jacob. In old age and blindness, Isaac attempted to bless Esau, but Rebekah and Jacob deceived him. After the deception, Isaac blessed both sons with prophetic words that shaped the future of Israel and Edom.

Isaac died at age 180, buried by Jacob and Esau in the cave of Machpelah.

Key Events

  • Binding of Isaac — Nearly sacrificed by Abraham
  • Deception at birth — grasped Esau’s heel
  • Marriage to Rebekah
  • Jacob’s deception — gave birthright and blessing to Jacob

Relationships

Important Verses

  • “And also of Sara, God hath enabled her to bear a child in the old age: because she was trustworthy.” — Genesis 21:1
  • “And the children struggled together within her; and she said, If it be so, why am I thus?” — Genesis 25:22

Cross-References

  • Hebrews 11:17-19 — Isaac as part of the hall of faith
  • Matthew 22:21 — “Render unto Caesar” echoes Isaac’s submission
  • Romans 9:10-13 — Election through Isaac, not Ishmael

Graph View

Backlinks