9th Grade Bible Practice Exam

In this story, a father’s blessing is a formal transfer of favor and the family line from the father to the son who is to carry on the inheritance. Isaac intends to bless Esau, the elder brother, because in this culture the firstborn typically receives the blessing and leadership. Rebekah helps Jacob disguise himself as Esau so Isaac will bless him instead. When Isaac gives the blessing, it is really Esau’s blessing—the blessing Isaac intended for Esau that Jacob ends up receiving through deception. So, the brother whose blessing is being given is Esau’s.