Monday, February 19, 2018

The Binding of Isaac


In Jewish tradition this binding (Akedah) is the last of  ten tests that Abraham has to pass.  It comes to occupy a central role in rabbinic theology and eventually came to be incorporated into the daily liturgy.  When God calls Abraham, he answers "Here I am." (hineni.)  There is no good English equivalent for this Hebrew word.  It indicates readiness, alertness, attentiveness, receptivity, and responsiveness to instruction.  The Lord declares, "All the nations of the earth shall bless themselves by your descendants, because you have obeyed My command." 
Not only Jews, but Christians and Muslims trace themselves back to Abraham and hold him as a model of readiness to do God's will.

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