*Sacred Scripture* Isaac Blessing Jacob – Brenet

The dying Isaac, touching the animal fur around Jacob’s neck, imparts his blessing which was meant for Jacob’s brother Esau. Artwork by N. G. Brenet.

The biblical text discloses that while Jacob is uncomfortable about participating in his mother’s plan to attain the patriarchal blessing for him, it is not because he has scruples. Rather, Jacob’s hesitation is based entirely on his worry that if he fails in an attempt to pass himself off as Esau, instead of receiving a blessing from his father he might be cursed by Isaac. It is of interest that Rebekah, who came up with the plan to secure the blessing for Jacob instead of Esau, addresses Jacob’s fears by volunteering to accept any curse herself rather than have it fall on her favorite son. Isaac is portrayed as something of a doddering old man, and Jacob successfully receives the blessing. It is of interest that Isaac is allowed to choose which son will receive the blessing. It also is of interest that once given, the blessing cannot be transferred.