Parshat Vayechi is all about Jacob’s passing, and what transpired in the period leading up to his death.
In his final exchange with his family, Jacob attempted to divulge “the end of days”. Based on the fact that this prophecy is not recorded anywhere as part of the conversation, the Talmud and Midrash conclude that Jacob’s prophetic powers left him, and he was unable to reveal this information to his sons.
But why did Jacob feel the need to divulge this information in the first place? And why was he robbed of his power to do so? Rabbi Dunner delves into the sources, and presents the fascinating backstory behind Jacob’s failed prophecy.
Image: Jacob blessing Joseph, by Harry Anderson (1906-1996)