The group analysis of the Akeda: The worst and the best feelings in the matrix

This chapter describes the worst and best social processes and feelings that a group can elicit has implications for group analytic therapy. Isaac's binding, the Akeda, viewed from a group analytic perspective, provides a further step in understanding the complex dynamics of scapegoating. While the naive Bible reader wishes to believe that the Akeda has a happy ending, the Bible itself, which usually exposes the bad and the good sides of humanity, points to a triumphant social glory, and, at the same time, hints at the personal tragedy of Isaac's binding. The conflict between socio-political and individual processes seems to have the power to destroy even a healthy family matrix. Isaac's binding is an example of the worst outcome of interpersonal relations, when they are characterised by a specific mixture of aggression, extreme faith, and unconscious human connectedness of a certain kind. The absence of shame and guilt is a unique feature of this interaction between Abraham and Isaac.