Jacob follows God’s command to return to the home of his relatives after years in service to Laban. In his fear of Esau’s wrath, he prepares gifts. Jacob wrestles with God.
Genesis 31: Jacob Flees From Laban
Jacob leaves takes his two wives, their children, and his flocks and flees Laban’s service to return to the land of his father. Laban pursues him. They make a treaty.
Genesis 30: Jacob and His Wives
Jacob and his wives bear many sons. Jacob tricks Laban into becoming a wealthy man. Joseph is born.
Genesis 29: Jacob In Harran
Jacob travels to Harran and enters service to his uncle Laban for the hand of Rachel in marriage. Laban tricks him into marrying Leah before Rachel. Leah has four sons and then commits herself to God over seeking the love of Jacob.
Genesis 28: Jacob’s Dream
Esau takes another wife. Jacob flees to Harran to find a wife and to flee Esau’s wrath. Jacob dreams of God and receives his promise.
Genesis 27: Jacob Takes Esau’s Blessing
Jacob and Rebekah trick the blind Isaac into giving Jacob his dying blessing.
Genesis 26: Isaac and Abimelek
This one-chapter interlude interrupts the story of Jacob and Esau and gives some historical asides about Isaac, his relationship with local tribal rulers, and a treaty he signed with Abimelek after disputes over wells.
Genesis 25: The Death of Abraham
The death of Abraham, the descendants of Ishmael, and Isaac’s sons Jacob and Esau. Esau sells his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of soup.
Genesis 24: Isaac and Rebekah
This romantic interlude tells how Abrahams servant went back to his clan in Aram-Naharaim, a region in Northwest Mesopotamia. He stops in the town of Nahor. This is likely in southern Turkey.
Genesis 23: The Death of Sarah
Abraham purchases the first land in Canaan owned by Israelites.