The Rabbi Sacks Legacy Was Jacob Right To Take Esau's Blessing? (Rabbi Sacks on Toldot)
Nov 19, 2025
Explore the moral dilemmas surrounding Jacob and Esau as Rabbi Sacks delves into their complex family dynamics. He debates whether deceit was justified for a higher purpose and examines Esau's impulsive character. The emotional weight of Isaac's reaction and Esau's heartbreak adds depth to their story. Sacks also touches on the consequences of their actions across generations, and suggests that each character acted from their own convictions. Ultimately, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's own blessings.
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Deceit Motivated By Covenant Duty
- Rivka and Jacob acted to protect the covenant because God indicated the younger would prevail and Jacob showed a temperament suited to the mission.
- Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks argues their deception was motivated by a higher spiritual purpose rather than selfish ambition.
Text Evokes Sympathy For The Deceived
- The narrative evokes sympathy for Isaac and Esau through vivid emotional description of deception's aftermath.
- Rabbi Sacks notes the trembling of Isaac and Esau's bitter cry make readers identify with the deceived more than with the deceivers.
Deceit Triggers Recurring Consequences
- Jacob's deception leads to long-term consequences: exile, repeated deception against him, family strife, and loss of Joseph.
- Rabbi Sacks treats this as moral measure-for-measure: as you have done to others, so will others do to you.