Summary: The author argues that God did not command Abraham to sacrifice Isaac but instead made a request, which changes the moral implications of the story. This interpretation suggests that God is inviting Abraham to recognize the blessings in his life rather than imposing a cruel order. By viewing it as a request, the relationship between God and Abraham is seen as one of mutual respect rather than power.
God asks the recipients to do something that enables them to recognize a gift or blessing God wishes to bestow. (View Highlight)
Orders imply a relationship based on power differentials: the person who orders is superior and the person ordered is subordinate. The former can command whatever he wishes. He’s unfettered. The latter’s freedom is constrained. (View Highlight)
Requests imply a less lopsided relationship in which the asker acknowledges the recipient’s right to freely comply or refuse. A degree of mutual respect and trust is implied. (View Highlight)
If we interpret the Akedah as a command, God’s “test” of Abraham seems cruelly harsh. But if we read it as God making a request, the upshot is something like this. “I’m asking you, Abraham,” says God, “if you’re willing to choose me above everything and anyone else. Once you make that interior commitment”— the leap of faith, as Kierkegaard would say—“you’ll see the world and everything in it—including yourself and your loved ones—in an entirely different light. You’ll finally comprehend the power of the blessing—all that jazz about stars and sand and nations—I’ve already bestowed upon you. And in doing so, you’ll have a better idea of who you are and who I am.” (View Highlight)