Genesis 22:1-19 and Yahweh Yireh
Akedah—The Binding. How often do you think Abraham relived this event in his memory? It probably came to mind often. How often do you think Isaac thought about it? Today, we look at the most well-known event in Abraham’s life. In my studies this week, it has been fascinating to see how Judaism, Christianity, and Islam each understand this event. In short, the Jewish mindset is focused on the oath God swears to Abraham for his faithfulness. The Christian, as we will see in a few weeks, focuses on the substitution of the ram. The Muslim believes it was Ishmael instead of Isaac that went up to Mt. Moriah to obediently sacrificed. All are interested in faithfulness and obedience . All are interested in God’s provision . But despite these three religions who value this text, many others know about it, too. Actually, one of the most sensational quotes I found regarding this passage is from a famous atheist named Christopher Hitchens: “I find a father holding a knife to his son...