The twin brothers, Jacob and Esau, meet, after twenty years apart; though this was Jacob’s biggest fear, God intervenes and softens Esau’s heart. Irish Scripture Scholar Frances Hogan explains the meeting as written in Chapter 33 of the Book of Genesis. Jacob, aware of the consequences of his past actions, divides his wives and concubines based on his affections. Despite his fear, Jacob humbles himself before Esau, bowing down and showing submission; this act of humility proves significant, as it communicates Jacob's changed character and sets the stage for reconciliation.

Jacob and his household continue their journey to Bethel, however, they live in Shechem for a short period of time. In Chapter 34, we see that Jacob’s family faces a tragic incident in Shechem, where Jacob's daughter Dinah is raped by a local prince. Jacob's older sons, Simeon and Levi, respond to the offense with deceitful intentions. When the King and prince come asking for Dinah’s hand in marriage, Simeon and Levi, propose that the men of Shechem should be circumcised, aiming to avenge their sister's honor but intending to massacre them instead; they killed the men, took the women and the children as slaves and they plundered the city.

After the distressing incident in Shechem, God instructs Jacob to go to Bethel, where he is to build an altar and worship Him. Sensing the need for purification, Jacob commands his household to put away their foreign gods and purify themselves. As written in Chapter 35, they comply by giving Jacob all their idols and earrings, symbolizing their commitment to worshiping the one true God. Jacob purifies his household and builds an altar, symbolizing their commitment to worshiping God alone. God appears to Jacob, reaffirming His covenant, renaming him Israel, and blessing him with promises of descendants and land. 

Bible References:

Gen. 33:1 - Jacob saw Esau coming 400 men Gen. 33:3 - Jacob bowed 7 timesGen. 33: 4 - Esau ran toward Jacob and meets him with unexpected affectionGen. 33 - 17-19 - Jacob’s time in SukkothGen. 34:25 - Simeon and Levi kill all the men of Shechem Gen. 49:5-8 - Jacob’s prophesy over Simeon and LeviGen. 35:1 Jacob is asked by God to go to BethelGen. 35:2 - Jacob asks his household to put away the foreign GodsHeb. 12:14 - Nothing unholy can enter the presence of GodGen. 35:8 - Deborah, Rebecca’s nurse, passes away

Irish Scripture Scholar Frances Hogan takes you through the origin story of God’s people shown to us in the Book of Genesis. Here is an opportunity to explore the early history of God’s people. With historical and Scriptural references, each session will open your eyes to the mystery of God’s creation. 

Frances Hogan: https://www.franceshogan.com/

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Ver todos los episodios