Yaakov feared that his deception would be discovered. If so, rather than receive blessing, he would have been cursed. We may question Yaakov’s concern. In the final analysis, he did serve his father. Yitzchak noted that the “voice” was not consistent with the “hands”; yet, he blessed Yaakov. What prompted Yaakov to fear a curse? Horav Ze’ev Weinberger, Shlita, renders a thoughtful explanation. When Yitzchak discovered that there was “something” inconsistent about the person who stood before him, he felt it could be attributed to one of two factors. Yaakov could have been dressed as Eisav, which would give reason for concern, but something that could be interpreted positively. There will be periods during Klal Yisrael’s exile when “Yaakov” must resort to the “Eisav” medium in dealing with his enemies. While it is not something to which we aspire, at times we must deal with the wicked in a “language” to which they are acutely attuned. As long as we remain “Yaakov” in our own conviction, however, there is still a place for blessing.
Another alternative confronted Yitzchak, one that was truly devastating. Perhaps this was Eisav speaking like Yaakov! Eisav could be reverting to “acting” like Yaakov. If we peruse Jewish history, or, in fact, look around contemporary times, we will note the devastation that has been wrought by those who speak like “Yaakov,” but whose goals represent Eisav’s way of life.
When Yitzchak heard Yaakov mention Hashem’s Name, he knew who really stood before him. Eisav never used the Name of the Almighty. Yitzchak saw that while Yaakov was compelled to resort to guile and to present himself in a false manner, he did not deviate from his conviction in Hashem. There was yet hope for blessing. Yaakov would not compromise on his observance, even if it meant relinquishing the blessings. Eisav, on the other hand, was completely satisfied to renounce the birthright for a bowl of red lentil soup.
