Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Rebecca put goat skins on Jacob's hands and neck?
A: Rebecca put goat skins on Jacob's hands and neck to make him feel hairy like his brother Esau, so that their blind father Isaac would mistakenly give Jacob the blessings meant for the firstborn. This was part of G-d's plan, as Jacob was more spiritually worthy to receive the blessings (Rashi on Genesis 27:16).
Q: What is the significance of using goat skins in this story?
A: The goat skins served two purposes: 1) They physically mimicked Esau's hairy skin to deceive Isaac, and 2) Symbolically, goats represent atonement and sacrifice in Jewish tradition (as seen later in the Torah with the sacrificial system), hinting at Jacob's spiritual role (Midrash Bereishit Rabbah 65:15).
Q: Why did Jacob need to disguise himself to receive the blessings?
A: According to Jewish tradition, Jacob didn't 'steal' the blessings - as the more righteous son, they rightfully belonged to him. The disguise was necessary because Isaac, though blind, could detect spiritual qualities through his other senses. The goat skins helped conceal Jacob's true identity while allowing the blessings to flow to their proper recipient (Ramban on Genesis 27:19).
Q: What lesson can we learn from Rebecca's actions in this verse?
A: This teaches that sometimes extraordinary measures are needed to fulfill G-d's will. Rebecca acted based on prophecy that Jacob should receive the blessings (Midrash Tanchuma, Toldot 8), showing that when we have clear divine guidance, we must take action - even if it seems unconventional.
Q: How does this verse connect to Jewish law about deception?
A: While deception is generally forbidden in Jewish law, our sages explain this was a unique case where the ends justified the means - ensuring the spiritual future of the Jewish people. The Talmud (Makkot 24a) notes that truth and peace must sometimes be balanced with higher purposes.
Context in the Torah
This verse (Genesis 27:16) describes Rivka (Rebecca) preparing Yaakov (Jacob) to receive Yitzchak's (Isaac's) blessing by disguising him as Eisav (Esau). The verse focuses on her use of goat skins to mimic Eisav's hairy arms and neck.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that Rivka used the skins of גְּדָיֵי הָעִזִּים (kids of the goats) because Eisav was a hunter who wore animal skins, making Yaakov's disguise more convincing. Additionally, Rashi notes that the term חֶלְקַת צַוָּארָיו ("the smooth of his neck") refers to the area where hair is naturally sparse, requiring extra covering to match Eisav's appearance.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic and Ethical Considerations
The Rambam (Hilchos De'os 5:7) discusses the principle of דרכי שלום (ways of peace), where certain deceptions may be permitted for a greater good. Some commentators apply this concept to Rivka's actions, as she acted to ensure the blessings went to the spiritually worthy son (Yaakov) rather than Eisav, who was unfit for them.
Symbolism of the Goat Skins
The Kli Yakar notes that goat skins symbolize the materialistic nature of Eisav, who valued physicality (as seen in his hunting and red stew). By wearing them, Yaakov temporarily took on Eisav's external traits while maintaining his inner righteousness—a lesson in navigating worldly challenges without compromising spiritual integrity.