An Ancient Hypochondriac

Scripture

Isaac replied, “I am old and might die at any time. So take your bow and arrows, then go out in the fields, and kill a wild animal.Cook some of that tasty food that I love so much and bring it to me. I want to eat it once more and give you my blessing before I die.”

~Genesis 27:2-4, CEV

Quote

The Hypochondriacs motto: there is no such thing as “just a mole.”

~Franz Lebowitz

If you have read the bible through, you probably noticed the gap between Genesis 27:1 and 35:27 but it would be easy to miss. One of my seminary professors pointed it out to me or I would have missed it myself. Read the text above one more time. Doesn’t it appear that Isaac is about to die. He is telling his son to prepare his last meal. Every one assumes that Isaac died shortly after this supposed last supper. Not so Geronimo: he lived another 80 years. If you don’t believe me, check it out. Isaac was a hypochondriac. He had an inaccurate perception of the condition of body.  Hypochondriacs become unduly alarmed about any physical or psychological symptoms they detect, no matter how minor the symptom may be, and are convinced that they have, or are about to be diagnosed with, a serious illness. Hypochondriacs are very pro-active about their health. They are prone to notice any symptom and to self-diagnose. You’ve heard what the hypochondriac put on his head stone: “I told you all I was sick.” 

Although the bible is silent about Rebekah’s death; it is believed that Isaac lived many years after her passing. According to the Talmud, Rebekah died while Jacob was in Haran {Syria}. Esau refused to attend her funeral and Isaac did not attend due to poor health. So here is a man who was convinced that he would die at the age of 100, yet he lives another 80 years; long enough to see seventeen grandsons and one grand daughter. There were probably more females but they were not that important to the ancient Hebrews. Women were not mentioned unless they played some dramatic role in the narrative. Dinah, Jacob’s daughter is mentioned due to the incident with Shechem. Long story short: Isaac was not as sick as he thought and there is no mention in scripture of any activity on his part during those 80 years. What a terrible waste. Live until you die. Isaac gave up way too soon.

We got another project completed yesterday, PTL and that reduces the number to one inside the house. I do have some things to do outside. We are slow but making progress. Big Mama is getting better everyday. She has rested well the last two nights. We are truly blessed and know it! I’ve already attended two COLS this week and then I understand Hal Macathren passed away yesterday. It is a lovely day today, I sure wish it would stay this way. They say an arctic blast is coming. I sure hope they miss it. Have a great day and thanks for reading the Blog.

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