Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Yitzchak love Esav more than Yaakov?
A: The Torah states that Yitzchak loved Esav because he enjoyed the taste of the game that Esav hunted and brought to him (Genesis 25:28). Rashi explains that Esav knew how to speak pleasing words to his father and would ask him questions like, 'Father, how do we tithe salt and straw?'—things that were not actually subject to tithing, thereby deceiving Yitzchak into thinking he was scrupulous in mitzvot.
Q: Why did Rivka love Yaakov more than Esav?
A: Rivka loved Yaakov because she saw his pure and righteous character. According to the Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 63:10), even before the twins were born, Rivka received a prophecy that 'the elder shall serve the younger' (Genesis 25:23). She recognized that Yaakov was spiritually suited to carry forward the legacy of Avraham and Yitzchak, while Esav was drawn to worldly pursuits.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the different ways Yitzchak and Rivka loved their sons?
A: The difference in their love teaches us about the importance of recognizing true spiritual qualities. Yitzchak was drawn to Esav’s outward displays of respect and physical gifts, while Rivka perceived Yaakov’s inner righteousness. The Rambam (Hilchot De’ot 2:1) teaches that we must judge people based on their true character and actions, not superficial impressions.
Q: How does this verse relate to parenting according to Jewish tradition?
A: Jewish tradition emphasizes the need for parents to recognize and nurture each child’s unique qualities. While Yitzchak and Rivka had different perspectives on their sons, the Torah later shows that Yitzchak ultimately blessed Yaakov as the rightful heir (Genesis 27:27-29). The Talmud (Shabbat 10b) teaches that a parent must not show favoritism, as this can lead to strife, as seen later between Yaakov and Esav.
Q: Why does the Torah mention what Yitzchak and Rivka loved about their sons?
A: The Torah highlights this to explain the dynamics that led to the future events—Esav’s resentment and Yaakov receiving the blessings. The Sforno notes that Yitzchak’s love was based on temporary, physical enjoyment ('tzaid b’fiv'—game in his mouth), while Rivka’s love was based on Yaakov’s enduring spiritual qualities. This contrast sets the stage for the unfolding of Hashem’s plan for the Jewish people.
Understanding the Verse
The verse states: "And Yitzchak loved Esav, for he relished his venison, but Rivka loved Yaakov." (Bereishit 25:28). This verse highlights the differing affections of Yitzchak and Rivka toward their sons, Esav and Yaakov, respectively.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Bereishit 25:28) explains that Yitzchak's love for Esav was influenced by Esav's ability to provide him with game (צַיִד בְּפִיו—literally, "hunting in his mouth"). Rashi notes that Esav would trap animals and prepare them in a way that pleased Yitzchak. However, Rashi also points out that this love was conditional—rooted in Esav's actions rather than his inherent spiritual qualities.
Rivka's Love for Yaakov
In contrast, Rivka's love for Yaakov was unconditional. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 63:10) teaches that Rivka recognized Yaakov's spiritual greatness from the outset, as he was a "wholesome man, dwelling in tents" (Bereishit 25:27), referring to his dedication to Torah study. Unlike Yitzchak, who was influenced by Esav's outward actions, Rivka perceived Yaakov's true character.
The Rambam's Perspective
The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 2:1) discusses the importance of loving others for their virtues rather than superficial reasons. Yitzchak's love for Esav was based on a temporary benefit (food), whereas Rivka's love for Yaakov was rooted in his righteousness. This distinction aligns with the Torah's emphasis on valuing spiritual qualities over material or fleeting pleasures.
Midrashic Insights
Spiritual vs. Material Love
The verse subtly contrasts two types of love: Yitzchak's love, which was tied to physical sustenance, and Rivka's love, which was based on spiritual recognition. This teaches a moral lesson about the nature of true love—whether it is conditional on external benefits or rooted in deeper, enduring qualities.