The term "supplanteth" is derived from the verb "supplant," which means to supersede or replace, often by scheming or treachery. In the context of the Bible, it is most closely associated with the account of Jacob, whose name itself means "he supplants" or "he takes by the heel." This entry explores the biblical narrative and theological implications of supplanting as seen in the Scriptures.

Biblical Narrative

The concept of supplanting is prominently featured in the account of Jacob and Esau, the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. From birth, Jacob's actions foreshadow his future role as a supplanter. Genesis 25:26 states, "After this, his brother came out, grasping Esau’s heel; so he was named Jacob." This act of grasping the heel is symbolic of Jacob's later actions in life.

Jacob's most notable act of supplanting occurs when he deceives his father, Isaac, to receive the blessing intended for Esau, the firstborn. Genesis 27:36 records Esau's lament: "Isn’t he rightly named Jacob? For he has cheated me twice now: He took my birthright, and now he has taken my blessing!" Here, Esau acknowledges Jacob's role as a supplanter, having first acquired Esau's birthright in exchange for a meal (Genesis 25:29-34) and then deceitfully obtaining the paternal blessing.

Theological Implications

The narrative of Jacob as a supplanter raises significant theological questions about divine sovereignty, human agency, and the fulfillment of God's promises. Despite Jacob's deceptive actions, God's covenantal promises to Abraham are carried forward through him. This underscores the biblical theme that God's purposes often unfold through flawed human instruments.

In Romans 9:10-13 , the Apostle Paul reflects on the account of Jacob and Esau to illustrate God's sovereign choice: "Not only that, but Rebekah’s children were conceived by one man, our father Isaac. Yet before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad, in order that God’s plan of election might stand, not by works but by Him who calls, she was told, 'The older will serve the younger.' So it is written: 'Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.'" This passage highlights the mystery of divine election and the role of God's grace in the unfolding of salvation history.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

The actions of Jacob as a supplanter also invite reflection on moral and ethical conduct. While Jacob's life is marked by deceit and manipulation, his account is also one of transformation and redemption. After wrestling with God at Peniel, Jacob receives a new name, Israel, meaning "he struggles with God" (Genesis 32:28). This encounter signifies a turning point in Jacob's life, as he moves from being a supplanter to becoming a patriarch of the Israelite nation.

The account of Jacob serves as a reminder of the complexity of human character and the potential for change. It challenges believers to consider the ways in which God can work through human weakness and failure to accomplish His divine purposes.Supplanteth (1 Occurrence)

Jeremiah 9:4
Take ye heed every one of his friend, and confide not in any brother; for every brother only supplanteth, and every friend goeth about with slander.
(DBY)

Supplanteth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Supplanteth (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 9:4 Take ye
heed every one of his friend, and confide not in any brother ...
/s/supplanteth.htm - 6k

Supplants (1 Occurrence)

/s/supplants.htm - 6k

Supplanters (1 Occurrence)

/s/supplanters.htm - 6k

Confide (31 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 9:4 Take ye heed every one of his friend, and confide not in any brother;
for every brother only supplanteth, and every friend goeth about with slander ...
/c/confide.htm - 14k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus