The Sweet Fragrance of the Field
When Yaacov came into his father Yitzchak's home to receive his blessings, the fragrance of the field was upon Yaacov's clothing. Yitzchak said, "See my son, not only does HaShem provide vegetation for His creatures, He also gives the herbs a sweet scent in order to give us pleasure." Why did Yitzchak find it important to point out this wonder of HaShem at the time of blessing his son? Before blessing his son, Yitzchak wanted to be inspired to recognize the unbounded goodness of HaShem. Therefore, when Yitzchak praised HaShem for the pleasant scent of the herbs, he was inspired to bless his son with great joy.
Lesson: The core of Divine Service is man's active recognition of the wondrous goodness that HaShem bestows upon him.
Visualization: Envision Yitzchak, our holy ancestor, one hundred and twenty-three years old and blind, waiting to bless his son before he dies. As Yaacov comes close to his father, Yitzchak notices the sweet fragrance of the field that accompanies his son. Yitzchak delights in the scent and expresses his heartfelt appreciation to HaShem. As Yitzchak's heart fills with joy, he blesses his son with great faith in HaShem. Follow the way of Yitzchak, and constantly be aware of the wondrous kindness of HaShem, that continuously surrounds you.
(Based on the commentary of the Seforno)
