Isaac

Also known as: Elihu · Family: Abraham's family · Role: son of Abraham and Sarah · First appears: Abraham Emigrates To Haran

Isaac, also known as Elihu, was born to Abraham and Sarah in their old age. His grandfather Terah lived until Isaac was thirty-five. After Isaac told Ishmael he would willingly obey if commanded to be offered, Abraham took him toward Moriah. Isaac reported Satan’s attempt to dissuade him, and Abraham bound him on the altar; God stopped the sacrifice, and a ram was offered in his place. Angels then carried Isaac to Paradise, where he stayed for three years.

After Sarah’s death, Isaac married Rebekah, who comforted him and proved worthy to succeed his mother. They remained childless for twenty years before praying together at Mount Moriah, and their prayer was answered. Isaac was deceived by Esau’s conduct into believing his elder son was pious, while Jacob acquired Esau’s birthright. Isaac settled in Gerar, where Benmelek—called Abimelech in the original text, the son of the earlier king Abimelech who took his father’s name upon accession—made a covenant with him. Isaac later returned to Canaan and sent Jacob to study the law.

When Isaac lost his sight, he meant to bless Esau, but he blessed Jacob instead; after learning that Jacob held the birthright, he affirmed, “I gave my blessing to the right one!” He sent Jacob to Haran to find a wife and confirmed his blessing. In later years, Isaac blessed Levi and Judah and prayed for Jacob’s sons when they sought his help. He rejoiced when Esau acknowledged Jacob’s birthright, and “he closed his eyes in peace.”