בראשית, פרק כ״ז, פסוק א׳

As Isaac nears the end of his life, he prepares to pass on his blessing, marking a dramatic turning point in the history of his family and the future nation. His advanced age is viewed by some commentators as a sign of physical decline; losing his sight led him to believe his death was imminent, even though he would live for decades longer [רד״ק, העמק דבר]. Conversely, others view his old age as a testament to his spiritual stature and accumulated wisdom [תורה תמימה]. Yet, unlike Abraham, whose mind only grew more illuminated with time, Isaac's mental acuity is seen as having dimmed alongside his physical vision, preventing him from recognizing Esau's deceitful nature [כלי יקר].

The loss of Isaac's sight invites various explanations. While a straightforward reading attributes his blindness to the natural process of aging [רשב״ם, רד״ק, ספורנו, רבינו בחיי], the primary approach among commentators points to deeper, spiritual causes. One perspective links his blindness to the smoke of the incense that Esau's wives offered to idols. Isaac was more susceptible to this smoke than his wife Rebecca, either because the male body was originally formed from the fragile dust of the earth, or because his profound holiness, having been offered as a sacrifice to God, made him physically unable to tolerate the impurity of idolatry [רש״י, רא״ש, חזקוני, גור אריה, תורת החסידות]. Another profound tradition suggests that during the Binding of Isaac, the ministering angels wept, and their tears fell into his eyes, leaving a lasting mark that eventually caused his blindness [רש״י, רבינו בחיי, פענח רזא]. Alternatively, his loss of sight is viewed as a consequence of accepting Esau's hunted game, which acted as a form of bribery, or simply as the result of looking upon the face of a wicked person [רבינו בחיי, תורה תמימה, דעת זקנים]. Beyond these reasons, many commentators agree that Isaac's blindness was ultimately an act of divine providence. God orchestrated his loss of sight to ensure he would not recognize his sons, guaranteeing that Jacob would receive the pivotal blessings [רש״י, אור החיים, כלי יקר, העמק דבר].

Unable to see, Isaac calls out to his older son, casting his voice into the room without knowing exactly where Esau stands [אור החיים]. Notably, Esau is referred to simply as the older son rather than the firstborn, a subtle reflection of the fact that he had previously despised and forsaken his birthright [הכתב והקבלה]. This raises a critical question: why did Isaac choose to bestow his blessing upon his wicked son? Some explain that Isaac hoped the blessings themselves would inspire Esau to repent and improve his character [אור החיים]. A broader perspective suggests that Isaac was fully aware of the stark differences between his sons and intended to forge a partnership between them. He planned to reserve the spiritual legacy of Abraham, including the land and the covenant with God, for Jacob. Esau, on the other hand, would receive material blessings of wealth, agricultural abundance, and political power. In this envisioned partnership, Esau would provide physical protection and material sustenance, allowing Jacob and his descendants to dedicate themselves entirely to the service of God, much like the later relationship between the tribe of Levi and the rest of the Israelites [מלבי״ם, שד״ל, טור הארוך].

The encounter begins with a brief, poignant exchange. Isaac calls out to his son and waits for a response. Esau answers with immediate readiness, demonstrating a profound respect and obedience toward his father. This prompt reply sets the stage, preparing both of them for the momentous and weighty matter that is about to unfold [העמק דבר, ביאור שטיינזלץ].