Introduction / Review
In our shiur on Parshat Toldot, we identified two categories of blessings to explain the nature of Yitzchak's blessings:

We used the name "bechira" in reference to God's special blessing to Avraham that his offspring ("zera") would inherit the 'promised' land ("eretz"). This blessing was first given to Avraham Avinu in the beginning of Parshat Lech L'cha (12:7) and was subsequently repeated numerous times not only to Avraham, but to Yitzchak and Yaakov, as well.

The more general term "bracha" we used in reference to a blessing of personal destiny, such as prosperity or power, given by a father to his son [or sons]. A good example of "bracha" is the blessing of prosperity and leadership that Yitzchak originally intended to bestow upon Esav, but was 'stolen' by Yaakov. (See 27:27-29.)

Towards the conclusion of Sefer Breishit, the "bechira" process ends when God chooses all of the children of Yaakov (the last of the Avot). (See Board #1.) Then, towards the end of Yaakov's life, he bestows "brachot" - blessings of fertility, prosperity and success - upon all his children (see 49:1-28).

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