Next, his brother came out [of the womb], his hand holding Esav’s heel (ekev), so they called his name Jacob Ya’akov (Genesis 25:26).

What a fascinating detail about a twin birth! Both brothers came out headfirst. This does happen in approximately 40% of twin births. But no statistics predict what parents Rivka and Yitzhak saw. While being born, their second twin extended his arm, opened its tiny curled fist, and closed it again on the nearest object. His—its sibling’s foot! No wonder the baby’s parents celebrated this oddity when they named him. And no wonder the baby’s unusual name attracted the attention of generations of commentators.

Keli Yakar (1550-1619) notes the etymological connections between words. Ekev means “heel” and akvah means “trickery.” Thus, he says, “Ya’akov” means “trickster.” And Ya’akov lives out the destiny of his name. Many of Ya’akov’s accomplishments result when he plays a trick on others. And many of his troubles result when others play a trick on him.

Ba’al Haturim (1269-1343) uses gematriya to connect words that have the same numerological value. Ya’akov has the same value as mal’ach Elohim, messenger of God. It also has the same value as hagan eden, the garden of Eden. Though Ya’akov’s life was full of pain and sorrow, he struggled within himself and grew into a master of blessing. He could, with his words, help others discern their own essential natures and find direction.

Two commentators analyze the same word. Yet each offers a different view. One finds troubles, and the other finds blessing. Words hold so many meanings, explicit and implicit! We live in a time of both trouble and blessing. May we be aware of negative rhetoric. And may we also find positive words of greeting to uplift one another.

For more perspectives on Parshat Toldot (Genesis 25:19-28:9) click here.