Chapter XXXI. — Let us see by what means we may obtain the divine blessing.
Let us cleave then to His blessing, and consider what are the means [124] of possessing it. Let us think [125] over the things which have taken place from the beginning. For what reason was our father Abraham blessed? was it not because he wrought righteousness and truth through faith? [126] Isaac, with perfect confidence, as if knowing what was to happen, [127] cheerfully yielded himself as a sacrifice. [128] Jacob, through reason [129] of his brother, went forth with humility from his own land, and came to Laban and served him; and there was given to him the sceptre of the twelve tribes of Israel.
[124] Literally, "what are the ways of His blessing."
[125] Literally, "unroll."
[126] Comp. Jas. ii. 21.
[127] Some translate, "knowing what was to come."
[128] Gen. xxii.
[129] So Jacobson: Wotton reads, "fleeing from his brother."