Gen. 25:19-28:9
Précis: The introductory phrase to this parasha is “These are the generations (“toldot”) of Isaac.” What follows is the birth of the twins, Esau and Jacob. Their childhood is omitted from the narrative. We learn that Jacob is a quiet man while Esau is a cunning hunter, that their mother Rebecca prefers Jacob, and that Isaac prefers Esau. Esau sells his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of porridge (or lentils). A famine takes place, and Isaac visits the Philistines where he claims that his wife Rebecca is actually his sister (as Abraham did with Sarah in Lech Lecha) and again, the woman escapes unharmed. The story turns to the “great deception” where Jacob pretends to be Esau in order to obtain the primary blessing from his father Isaac. Esau hates Jacob and threatens him; Rebecca urges Jacob to escape to her family in Haran, and he sets off at the conclusion of the parasha.
Gen. 26:30 “And he made them a feast, and they did eat and drink.”
This year, we read this parasha on Thanksgiving weekend. Those who do not look closely at the text may miss this story. After conflict between Isaac and the Philistines, a reconciliation between the parties is achieved. Isaac hosts a special dinner to celebrate the resolution of the dispute.
This is, indeed, an appropriate link between the text and the legend of the Pilgrims' and Indians' first Thanksgiving.
As I have previously mentioned, hospitality to guests has wide application in our tradition, whether simply to greet strangers, or resolving problems, or comforting mourners. This year, many of us will have a special reason for giving thanks, spending the day with relatives we have not seen since before the pandemic. Happy Thanksgiving and Shabbat Shalom.
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