Implications of the Akeida Part 11: Abarbanel on Yitzhak's Transformation
In this final instalment of the Akeida shiurim, we will examine some comments of the Abarbanel on the Akeida. Are tests for the benefit of the “tester” or the “testee”? What possible benefit can come from the Akeida? God cannot benefit, as He is all-knowing. Avraham does not stand to gain, either. But there is a third party involved in this story: the main focus of the story is Yitzhak. And Yitzhak will change dramatically.
Abarbanel suggests that each of the forefathers has a life-defining experiences that develops an important spiritual quality. Yitzhak, as a miracle child, may have been a little coddled. The trauma of Akeidat Yitzhak provides him with necessary toughness to enrich his personality. It provides him with the realization that life demands choices.
לשאר השיעורים בסדרה (10)
- Implications of the Akeida: Part 1 - Ethics and Obedience
- Implications of the Akeida: Part 2- Human Knowledge of the Good
- Implications of the Akeida: Part 3 - Yihud Hashem
- Implications of the Akeida - Part 4: Prophetic and Religious Challenges of the Akeida
- Implications of the Akeida: Part 5 - Potential, Intent, Action
- Implications of the Akeida Part 6: The Sefat Emet on Yir'a vs. Ahava
- Implications of the Akeida Part 7: Human Sacrifice
- Implications of the Akeida Part 8: Supernatural Transcendence
- Implications of the Akeida Part 9: Moral Ambiguity and Competing Values
- Implications of the Akeida Part 10: Mei HaShiloach and the Obscured Vision