[blue-duncan]

There was no intrigue or conspiracy on the part of Rebecca and Jacob. Jacob bought the birthright in a fair bargain. Every one got just they wanted based on their experience and educated decisions. When Jacob bought the birthright he was entitled to the blessing. He in effect, became the "eldest". If anything it was Esau and Isaac who were trying to cheat Jacob out of his blessing and God provided a way for Rececca to overhear the conspiracy and thwart it. It saved Isaac from disobeying God's plan for Israel. All of these events were orchestrated by God.

[annalex]

You can interpret Rebecca's and Jacob's deception as defensive if you will. The point is, the story shows men and women taking active part in shaping the events. It does not show automata. When the inspired author wants to make it clear that God take control of things, he does so: God appears and tells humans what to do in no uncertain terms. Not so here.

The case for Jacob as one deciding his own destiny is made even stronger as he wrestles another blessing from the angel.

Which reminds me of my old limerick. Maybe Murphy can put it to music.

Jacob had an additional soul
Which from Archangel Michael he stole
This remarkable feat
Left Gentiles incomplete
Till the Pentecost rendered them whole