The Deceit of Jacob Towards Esau: Trading Integrity for Power

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Among the countless works of literature, the Bible holds stories that have helped shape and influence society. Genesis tells about man’s development through learning to cope with everyday struggles. The story of Esau and Jacob shows how one brother deceives his sibling and father for personal gain. While Isaac becomes old and blind, his sons Jacob and Esau battle for their father’s blessing before his death. The text reveals that an individual must not sacrifice his or her integrity in the pursuit of power. The text reveals that stealing from others leads to injustice towards the victim itself. Because Isaac’s blessing promises wealth and power, Jacob uses deception to steal the blessing from his brother, Esau. Isaac plans to give Esau his blessing, but first he must hunt game and cook a savory dish Isaac enjoys. While Isaac gives Esau the opportunity to perform, Jacob does not have the chance to show his father his ability and respect for him. With his mother’s help, Jacob turns to a dark path to obtain the blessing. Isaac’s blessing offers: God give you dew from heaven and the richness of the earth, corn and new wine in plenty! May peoples serve you and nations bow down to you. May you be lord over your brothers, may your mother’s sons bow down to you… (Genesis 27:28-29). This shows the blessing’s importance and impact it gives to its recipient. Since it guarantees a powerful and permanent position in society, Jacob realizes he cannot afford to lose the blessing. This instant authority reveals an individual’s will to give up their moral principality for power. When Esau questions Isaac if he has a blessing left for him, he responds, “I have made him lord over you and set all his brothers under him. I have bestowed upon him grain and new wine for his sustenance. What is there left that I can do for you, my son?” (Genesis 27:37). Esau weeps

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