The Portrait of Isaac in Genesis 27: Between Synchronic and Diachronic Readings of Patriarch’s Character
Abstract
Modern critical reception characterizes patriarch Isaac as a particular character type: the schlemiel. This article provides a tour through the cumulative evidence for this comedic read, focusing on Genesis 27, the blessing of Jacob. It provides a revised narratological and literary context, arguing that Isaac’s fivefold questioning demonstrates not confusion, but awareness: he knows exactly which son is in front of him. The paper presents an alternative narratological and literary context for Isaac, framing his questions in terms of the editing process: a synchronic reading of Isaac’s acumen is corroborated by evidence from diachronic reading. The redaction history of the Isaac material in chapter 26 yields a number of points suggesting the dependence of the Abraham material on the Isaac narrative. A number of features indicate a stronger, less subordinate Isaac figure based on the earlier tradition revealed by a complex transmission history than the image arising from the mainstream synchronic reading of chapter 27 seems to depict.
Keywords:
biblical interpretation, patriarchal narratives, history of reception, IsaacReferences
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Hellenic College, Boston, MA
Dr. Anna Rozonoer, PhD in Biblical Studies, Hebrew Bible, Boston University, (2014) Independent Scholar; Adjunct Assistant Professor at Hellenic College, Brookline, MA, USA.
Research interests: The Book of Genesis; Old Testament Wisdom Literature.
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