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Bereshit

Toldot (Genesis 25:19–28:9)

Isaac and Rebecca pray for children, and Rebecca is told that “two nations” struggle within her—foreshadowing the rivalry of their twins. Esau emerges first, a hunter of the field; Jacob follows, dwelling in tents. One day, driven by hunger, Esau sells his birthright to Jacob for a pot of stew, revealing how appetite can eclipse destiny. A famine sends Isaac to Gerar, where he calls Rebecca his sister; God protects them, blesses Isaac with prosperity, and he re-digs Abraham’s wells despite conflict with local herdsmen. Peace is finally made with Avimelech, and God reaffirms the covenant. Esau’s marriages to Hittite women bring grief to his parents.

As Isaac grows old and his sight dims, he seeks to bless Esau. Rebecca, recalling the oracle, directs Jacob to present himself as the firstborn. Disguised in Esau’s garments and goat-skin sleeves, Jacob receives the potent blessing of covenantal abundance and leadership. Esau returns, anguished, and vows to kill his brother. To safeguard the line and find a fitting spouse, Rebecca sends Jacob to her family in Haran, and Isaac endorses the plan with a second blessing. The portion closes with Esau marrying into Ishmael’s family, trying to align with his parents’ wishes. Themes to listen for: the weight of birthright and blessing, the tension between prophecy and human scheming, perseverance in reopening wells of the past, and how family choices ripple across generations.