In our journey through the texts of the Pentateuch according to the annual cycle of readings we are moving into a new story, designated Eleh Toledot Isaac by the ancient compiler. This story begins in Genesis 25:19 when Isaac is forty years old and ends in Genesis 35:29 when Isaac dies. It is clear that Rebekah, and not Isaac is the leading role in the unfolding plan. In this class, we take a close look at the birth of twin sons to Isaac and Rebekah – Esau and Jacob. We share what we know of Isaac, but following the lead of the author of these stories, our main focus is on Rebekah who acted on a word she heard from God to ensure that nothing interfered with the fulfillment of the divine decree.
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