Weekly Torah portion
Parascha Toldot תולדות
Genesis (Bereschit) · Genesis 25:19-28:9
„Offspring / Generations"
Summary
After twenty years of marriage, Isaac and Rebecca are blessed with twins, Esau and Jacob. The brothers represent two different nations, struggling even within the womb, setting the stage for a lifelong rivalry over their spiritual and physical heritage.
Driven by hunger after a hunting trip, Esau agrees to sell his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of red lentil stew. This act demonstrates Esau's disregard for the spiritual responsibilities of the firstborn, which Jacob deeply values.
As Isaac grows old and blind, Jacob follows his mother's advice to receive the primary blessing by dressing in Esau's clothes. Consequently, Jacob must flee to Haran to escape Esau's anger and to find a wife from his mother's family.
People
Isaac
The second Patriarch who spends his life digging wells and re-establishing his father's covenant.
Rebecca
The Matriarch who receives a prophecy about her sons and ensures the blessing goes to Jacob.
Esau
The elder twin and a skilled hunter who prioritizes immediate physical gratification over his spiritual legacy.
Jacob
The younger twin, described as a scholar dwelling in tents, who eventually becomes the father of the twelve tribes.
Abimelech
The King of the Philistines who enters into a peace treaty with Isaac after witnessing his success.
Key commandments (mitzvot)
Traditionally no commandments are counted in this portion.
Full text
Quiz & badge
Answer every question correctly to earn the badge.
1. What did Esau sell his birthright for?
2. Why did Jacob dress in Esau's clothing?
3. What prophecy did Rebecca receive during her pregnancy?
4. Where does Isaac go during the famine?