The efficacy of parental blessing

The main aim of this thesis is to explore how the parental blessing, which Jacob obtained through deception, can still be efficacious despite its controversial transmission. For this purpose the 20 theology of blessing in the OT and the passages Gen 25:1-26:35 and 28:10-33:20 are analyzed. An exegesis of Gen 27:1-28:9 will demonstrate that the efficacy of parental blessing hinges on the interaction between an inexplicable divine plan intended to bless the patriarchs and their descendants and the characters' actions intended to accomplish their interests. It is due to God's favourable attitude towards Jacob and his descendants that the blessing works for them in complex ways.