Commonalities between the Isaac and Oedipus myths: a speculation.

Abstract

From a detailed view of the myth of the binding of Isaac, a speculation emerges that Isaac may have had incest with his mother, Sarah. This would explain the death of Sarah shortly thereafter, his absent virility for twenty years, and his blindness. The commonalities with the Oedipus myth are outlined, along with the themes of filicide, patricide, guilt, punishment, and expiation. This suggests that they are the same myth, with some slight variations. The continued interest in both myths may be due to their utility as cautionary tales to teach control of hostile impulses in parents and children. While the outcome in the Oedipus myth is tragic, it is hopeful in the Isaac myth.