Isaac and Ishmael Dispute Over Circumcision Before the Binding

Yalkut Shimoni on Torah 95:9

Curated by Arthur·Told by Maggid·

Another interpretation: "after these things" means Isaac and Ishmael were disputing with one another. This one said, "I am greater than you, for I was circumcised at eight days." Ishmael said, "I am more beloved, because it was in my power to protest and I did not protest." [He had been circumcised at thirteen years of age and could have resisted.] At that hour Isaac said, "Would that the Holy One, blessed be He, reveal Himself to me and tell me to cut off one of my limbs, and I would not hold back." The Holy One, blessed be He, said to him: On the condition that you would offer up yourself and not hold back.

Themes

AbrahamSacrificeFaith

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