Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 27:10 mean?
A: This verse is part of the story where Rivka (Rebecca) instructs her son Yaakov (Jacob) to bring food to his father Yitzchak (Isaac) so that Yitzchak will bless him before his death. According to Rashi, this was part of Hashem's plan for Yaakov to receive the blessings meant for the firstborn, even though he was the younger son.
Q: Why was it important for Yaakov to receive his father's blessing?
A: In Jewish tradition, a father's blessing before death carries great spiritual weight and can influence the future of his children. The Midrash explains that these blessings included prophecies about the future of the Jewish people, making them essential for the divine plan. The Rambam also teaches that parental blessings have lasting significance.
Q: What can we learn from Genesis 27:10 about honoring parents?
A: The verse teaches the importance of honoring one's parents, as Yaakov followed his mother's instruction to bring food to his father. The Talmud (Kiddushin 31b) emphasizes that honoring parents is a fundamental mitzvah (commandment), and this act demonstrates proper kibud av v'em (honoring father and mother).
Q: How does the concept of a father's blessing apply today?
A: In Orthodox Jewish practice, parents still bless their children, especially on Shabbat and holidays. The tradition stems from this biblical precedent. The Talmud (Moed Katan 9a) discusses the power of a parent's blessing, and many families continue this custom to invoke divine protection and guidance for their children.
Q: Why did Rivka help Yaakov receive the blessing instead of Eisav (Esau)?
A: According to Rashi and the Midrash, Rivka knew through prophecy that Yaakov was more spiritually suited to carry the legacy of Avraham and Yitzchak. The Or HaChaim explains that Eisav's character made him unworthy of the blessings, so Rivka acted to ensure they went to the righteous son, Yaakov.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Genesis 27:10) is part of the narrative where Rivka (Rebecca) instructs Yaakov (Jacob) to bring food to his father Yitzchak (Isaac) so that he may receive the blessings intended for Esav (Esau). The verse highlights the importance of honoring one's parents and the spiritual significance of a father's blessing before his passing.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that Rivka's instruction to Yaakov was motivated by her prophetic knowledge that Yaakov was the rightful heir to Yitzchak's blessings, not Esav. The phrase "יברכך לפני מותו" ("that he may bless thee before his death") emphasizes the urgency of securing the blessing while Yitzchak was still alive, as a father's blessing carries immense weight, especially when given with full consciousness and intent before death.
Rambam on Honoring Parents
Rambam (Hilchot Mamrim 6:3) discusses the mitzvah of honoring one's parents, which includes attending to their needs. Yaakov's act of bringing food to Yitzchak exemplifies this mitzvah, demonstrating that even in pursuit of a divine plan, one must uphold the dignity and care of a parent.
Midrashic Insights
Theological Significance of the Blessing
The blessing before death is considered particularly potent in Jewish tradition. The Talmud (Bava Batra 116a) states that a father's blessing at the end of his life is irrevocable and carries the weight of a divine decree. This underscores why Rivka was insistent that Yaakov receive it, ensuring the continuity of the Abrahamic legacy through the righteous line.
Ethical Considerations
While the narrative involves deception, commentators like the Sforno argue that Rivka and Yaakov acted out of necessity to fulfill a higher divine plan. The Or HaChaim adds that Yaakov's humility and willingness to serve his father—even in this challenging circumstance—demonstrated his worthiness for the blessing.