1) genesis

its parts

- primeval history - ancestral history

outline of genesis

1. Four Events (Genesis 1-11) Creation Fall Flood The nations 2. Four People (Genesis 12-50) Abrahm Isaac Jacob Joseph

what is the importance of genesis in christianity

Christianity has interpreted Genesis as the prefiguration of certain cardinal Christian beliefs, primarily the need for salvation (the hope or assurance of all Christians) and the redemptive act of Christ on the Cross as the fulfillment of covenant promises as the Son of God.

what is the importance of gensis in judiasm

In Judaism, the theological importance of Genesis centers on the covenants linking God to his chosen people and the people to the Promised Land.

what is it

The Book of Genesis, the first book of the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament, is an account of the creation of the world and the origins of the Jewish people.

the ancestral history

The ancestral history (chapters 12-50) tells of the prehistory of Israel, God's chosen people.[5] At God's command Noah's descendant Abraham journeys from the Sumerian city of Ur into the God-given land of Canaan, where he dwells as a sojourner, as does his son Isaac and his grandson Jacob. Jacob's name is changed to Israel, and through the agency of his son Joseph, the children of Israel descend into Egypt, 70 people in all with their households, and God promises them a future of greatness. Genesis ends with Israel in Egypt, ready for the coming of Moses and the Exodus. The narrative is punctuated by a series of covenants with God, successively narrowing in scope from all mankind (the covenant with Noah) to a special relationship with one people alone (Abraham and his descendants through Isaac and Jacob).[6] the "ancestral history" is structured around the three patriarchs Abraham, Jacob and Joseph.

primeval history

The primeval history sets out the author's concepts of the nature of the deity and of humankind's relationship with its maker: God creates a world which is good and fit for mankind, but when man corrupts it with sin God decides to destroy his creation, saving only the righteous Noah to reestablish the relationship between man and God.

The first covenant

is between God and all living creatures, and is marked by the sign of the rainbow; the second is with the descendants of Abraham (Ishmaelites and others as well as Israelites), and its sign is circumcision; and the last, which does not appear until the book of Exodus, is with Israel alone, and its sign is Sabbath. A great leader mediates each covenant (Noah, Abraham, Moses), and at each stage God progressively reveals himself by his name (Elohim with Noah, El Shaddai with Abraham, Yahweh with Moses

chapter 20

★THEMES Abraham And Abimelech Abimelech Abraham Heathen Philistines Rulers Sincerity ★SUMMARY In Chapter 21, God fulfills his promise to give Sarah a son. Sarah and Abraham were very old. However, God kept his promise to them in a unique way. Sarah finally conceived a baby boy, and upon giving birth they named him Isaac. The boy was circumcised on the eighth day in accordance with God's covenant with Abraham. Hagar, Abraham, and Ishmael Previously, in Chapter 20, Hagar and Abraham had a baby boy. As Isaac was growing up, Sarah noticed Hagar's son mocking, and out of anger, she confronted Abraham and forced Hagar from his home. Abraham, who was entirely honest, found it difficult to comply with Sarah's request without involving God. Once in the wilderness, Hagar and her son faced a difficult situation. And then, upon crying to God, he sent his messenger to comfort her and to breathe new life into her son, Ishmael. Ishmael would eventually grow up to be a successful archer. Abraham and Abimelech worked together and forged a special covenant.

chapter 17

★THEMES Abram And Circumcision The Sign Of The CovenantIsaac's Birth Promised Abraham's Household Circumcised The Mark Of The Covenant Religion ★SUMMARY God appeared to Abram when he was 90 years old and told him that he would multiply his house. Abram bowed before the Lord and listened as he continued to speak. God changed his name from Abram to Abraham and declared that his offspring would inhabit the land forever. In return, God charged Abraham to circumcise every male child in his house and to call his wife Sarah instead of Sarai. Abraham's Request Hearing God's words, Abraham struggled to believe that a son would be born to his wife at the age of 90. He asked God if Ishmael could not walk before him. God replied saying that he would bless Ishmael for Abraham's sake, but that his inheritance would be passed to the son that Sarah would bear. Following God's Commandment When Abraham talked with God about their covenant, God commanded Abraham to circumcise every male child eight days after his birth. He stated that any male who was not circumcised would be cut off from his people for breaking his word with God. Therefore, Abraham circumcised every male in his house that same day and was himself circumcised also.

chapter 14

★THEMES Abram Rescues Lot Melchizedek's Blessing Amorites Babylon ★SUMMARY Chapters 13 and 14 of the Book of Genesis introduce many new stories, especially the story of Lot and King Chedorlaomer. In Chapter 14, Lot pitched his tents near Sodom upon arrival. We are given an account of the first war. The kings of corresponding cities on the plain of Jordan were invaded by four other Kings: Shinar, Ellasar, Elam, and King Tidal. This resulted in a revolution. The Kings served Chedorlaomer for 12 years before rebelling in the 13th year. King Chedorlaomer sought a victory. All the kings were invading from Mesopotamia. The Battle of Kings Battle lines were drawn in the valley of Siddim. As the four Kings defeated their enemies, the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled. Admah, Zeboiin, and Zoar also invaded. The four kings seized the spoils of war after which they had looted from cities along the way. Abram got caught up in the violence. He defeated the four Kings and saved Sodom and Gomorrah in the process. He refused any reward from the King of Sodom.

chapter 5

★THEMES Adam's Descendants To Noah\ Genealogy ★SUMMARY Adam's Legacy Adam lived for 930 years and begot Seth at 130 years old. Seth begot Enos at 105 years old and died at the age of 912. Enos fathered Cainan at 90 years old, and died at age 905. Cainan begot Mahaleel at 70 years old, and died at age 910. Mahaleel lived 65 years and fathered Jared, dying at age 895. Jared begot Enoch at age 162 and died at age 962. Enoch fathered Methuselah at age 65, and died at the end of 365 years. The Birth of Noah Methuselah begot Lamech and died at 969 years of age. Lamech lived for 777 years and fathered a son. He called him Noah, meaning "comforter" or "liberator." Noah begot three sons called Ham, Japheth, and Shem.

chapter 4

★THEMES Cain And Abel The Line Of Cain Adam's Godly Descendants Adam To Enosh Cain's Family ★SUMMARY Cain and Abel Chapter 4 depicts the tragic story of the brothers, Cain and Abel. Cain and Abel were twins born of Adam and Eve. Abel was a sheep herder; Cain was a farmer. Over time, Cain and Abel began presenting offerings to God. The Lord was pleased with Abel's offerings. However, he was dissatisfied with Cain's offerings. Cain responded angrily to God's criticisms. God warned Cain of the dire consequences of hatred, anger, and sin. In spite of God's warning, Cain killed his brother Abel. He was overcome by sin and ultimately upset and shocked their family. God's Response to Abel When God found out Cain had killed Abel, he was furious and so he punished Cain by placing a curse on him. The soil which Cain worked would be fruitless and would from then on would not harvest crops. When Cain became upset by the curse which was set upon him, God made it so he could not kill anyone else. Cain's New City Chapter 4 describes the creation of a new, iniquitous society: a city of Cain's descendants. Cain named it "Nod" and it was located to the East of Eden. Cain's city was full of selfishness, violence, and corruption. Genesis 4 to 11 tells us of the emergence of Humanity's sin on Earth. The Bible's Chapter 4 also presents the lives Abel and Seth, men born of Adam and Eve.

chapter 1

★THEMES Creation History Miracles ★SUMMARY consists of 31 verses -provides an overview of how the world was created in -6 days. -The text describes how the Lord spoke all things into being except humankind, whom He created in his image. -In the Beginning Before the creation of the earth, the universe was a dark void with water being the only substance in existence. God's spirit moved upon the water's surface and He created the heavens and the Earth. -Day One On the first day, God commanded light into existence. He saw that it was good and separated the light from the darkness so that morning and evening would be distinguishable from each other. He named the light day, and the darkness night. -Day Two On the second day, God separated the waters with a void which He called the sky. Water then existed below the sky and in the clouds above it. -Day Three On the third day, God gathered all the waters below into one place and called them "seas." The dry ground that appeared as a result He named "land." He then caused the land to produce vegetation including trees, bushes, and grass. -Day Four On the fourth day, God placed the moon, sun, and stars in the heavens. The lights would serve to mark holy times and the days in general. -Day Five On the fifth day, God created all the creatures that live in the water and the air. He commanded them to multiply and fill the Earth. -Day Six On the sixth day, God created all creatures that dwell on dry land including wild animals, creeping things and livestock. Afterwards He created humankind in His image, so that they might rule over all the animals of the earth. The Lord blessed them and told them to multiply across the lands. At the end of the sixth day, the Lord was pleased with what He had created.

chapter 22

★THEMES God Tests Abraham Rebekah's Family The Lord's Seventh Promise To Abraham ★SUMMARY God had a long endearing relationship with Abraham. They were very close. God would often consult Abraham before making his decisions. In Genesis 22, God seeks to further improve and better his relationship with Abraham. The Lord and Abraham For a long time, God promised to make Abraham a father of nations. Thus when Isaac was born, God's promises materialized. It was very clear that God's trust of Abraham's faith rested solely with Isaac. God wanted to test Abraham's loyalty. And so He came to Abraham one day and made a difficult request: he must sacrifice his only son. Because he was entirely loyal, Abraham chose to obey God's command. Abraham and Isaac Abraham took his son to a mountain to sacrifice him. Just before Abraham struck Isaac with a knife, God's angel manifested and gripped Abraham's hand, commanding him not to harm his son in such a way. God acknowledged Abraham's resolve. He showed Abraham an alternative sacrificial ram just a few meters away on the altar of which he constructed for Abraham to slay his son.

chapter 9

★THEMES God's Covenant With Noah And Humankind Noah's Descendants God's Promise - The Sign Of The Rainbow ★SUMMARY Genesis Chapter 9 covers the events that took place after Noah and his family survived the floods meant to wipe out the wicked people of earth. It also includes God's promise to Noah that He would never flood the earth again. A New Beginning When the flood subsided, Noah and his family left the ark with God's blessing. He instructed them to be fruitful and multiply to replenish the earth. He also gave them dominion over every beast of the earth including birds and fish. However, God commanded Noah never to ingest animal blood, or to shed the blood of another man. After Noah and his family had departed from the ark, God promised that he would never unleash a flood that would destroy the earth again. He caused a rainbow to appear in the sky alongside the rains as a reminder of the covenant that he had made with Noah. Life After the Rains With the rains gone and the land dry again, Noah became a farmer. He planted a vineyard and took to drinking the wine. Noah Curses Ham Noah became drunk and fell asleep in his tent, naked. His youngest son, Ham, noticed this and told his brothers. Shem and Japheth then procured a piece of cloth and covered their father's nakedness. Upon waking up, Noah realized what Ham had done and cursed him and his descendants to be servants to the houses of his brothers.

chapter 26

★THEMES Isaac And AbimelechIsaac's DeceptionConflicts Over WellsThe Lord Appears To IsaacCovenant With Abimelech Esau's Wives Abimelech Malice Philistines ★SUMMARY Genesis 26 is an intriguing tale of how Isaac assisted his family during a terrible famine. He considered the Lord's advice. Ultimately, Isaac became richer and more prosperous in the end. The Great Famine Because a famine occurred in Canaan, Isaac had to escape to a safer place called Gerar, a city under the rule of King Abimelech. When he arrived, he was enthusiastically embraced by the people, given a place to rest and food to eat. Isaac was only worried about his wife, Rebecca. She was very beautiful and he feared that the people of the city may kill him he they found out she would choose him as a husband. Therefore, Isaac took on a disguise and pretended that Rebecca was his sister. Isaac's Dilemma The king caught Isaac and Rebecca making love. Isaac was placed in an awkward spot; he had to explain to the king the extent of his relationship with Rebecca. Isaac had to tell the truth, and in a strange series of events the king accepted his explanation. Even more, the king commanded his subjects to acknowledge and accept Isaac's marriage to Rebecca.

chapter 24

★THEMES Isaac And Rebekah Abraham's Servant Finds A Wife For Isaac Isaac And Rebekah Are Married Abraham Eliezer Isaac Marriage Servant Wife ★SUMMARY An elderly Abraham, to whom God had given much, called his oldest servant to look after his belongings and to make him swear to find a wife for his son, Isaac. Abraham also made the servant swear that he would bring his son a wife from the native lands, not where he lived at the time. Abraham expressed his strong faith in God and hoped that he would send an angel to assist his servant. Abraham said then that if the girl would be unwilling to accompany him back, the servant would be free of his oath. Abraham and the Wife of Isaac The servant took many camels and gold and went to the city of Nahor, which was in Mesopotamia. There, the servant went to a well where the city's women would come to retrieve water. There the servant prayed to the Lord that the damsel would be destined to be the wife of Isaac. Shortly afterwards, Rebekah came with a pitcher of water to give to the daughter of a brethren of Abraham.

chapter 46

★THEMES Jacob And His Offspring Go To Egypt Jacob's Family Jacob Arrives In Egypt ★SUMMARY In Genesis 46 Jacob and his family travel to Egypt and reunite with Joseph. Though Jacob is afraid, God speaks to him and assures him that He will bring them into and out of Egypt. Egypt After learning that his son was still alive, Jacob journeyed to Beersheba where he offered several sacrifices to God. One night, God came to him in a vision and ordered him to move to Egypt where He would make a great nation of his decendants. Jacob's sons carried their father and their children in wagons which had been sent by Pharaoh. They took all of their livestock and belongings as they intended to resettle in an area of Egypt called Goshen. Jacob was accompanied by all of his sons, daughters, grandsons, and granddaughters. Jacob's Family The family that went with Jacob to Egypt are as follows: Reuben, the firstborn, had four sons named Phallu, Carmi, Hezron, and Hanoch. Simeon, Jacob's second born, had six sons: Jamuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar, and Shaul. Levi had three sons called Merari, Kohath, and Gershon. Judah's sons included Shelah, Zerah, and Pharez. Pharez had two sons: Hezron and Hamul. The sons of Issachar included Job, Phuvah, Tola, and Shimron. Zebulun had three sons: Elon, Jahleel, and Sered. Gad had seven sons while Asher had four sons and one daughter. Benjamin had ten sons while Joseph had two sons called Manasseh and Ephraim. Dan had one son while Naphtali had four sons. Reunion Jacob sent Judah ahead to inform Joseph that they were coming from the direction of the land of Goshen. When he heard the news, Joseph got into his chariot and went to meet his family. When he met his father, they both cried for a long while out of happiness. Joseph told them that he would introduce them to Pharaoh and instructed them to say that they were all shepherds.

chapter 48

★THEMES Jacob Blesses Ephraim And Manasseh Ephraim's Greater Blessing Benedictions Will ★SUMMARY In Genesis 48, Jacob's final words were recorded as he gave a blessing from God unto the sons of Joseph. The 21 verses depict the details of the blessing and the prediction that Ephraim's lineage would be greater than that of Manasseh's. Joseph's Father After his family had been in Egypt for 17 years, Joseph was informed that his father's health was failing. So Joseph took his two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim and went to visit his father. When they arrived at Jacob's home, he was informed that Joseph had come to visit him. Jacob sat on his bed and called for the visitors. He informed them that the Lord God had appeared to him in Luz in the land of Canaan and blessed him. Moreover, God had told Israel that He would make him fruitful and multiply his descendants so as to become a great nation. Jacob and Joseph's Sons Jacob then told Joseph that although Manasseh and Ephraim were born in the land of Egypt and not in the home of their ancestors, he accepted them into his family and considered them his grandsons. He told Joseph of how Rachel had died in Canaan and was buried in Ephrath, Bethlehem. Joseph brought his two sons near to their grandfather, since Jacob's sight had waned and he could not see them. Joseph placed Jacob's left hand on Manasseh's head and his right onto Ephraim's head. Jacob prayed for them and then blessed them. Blessing Joseph and His Sons Jacob then stretched out his hands and laid them on his grandsons. He blessed Joseph and prayed that his two grandsons be blessed by the God of Abraham and his father Isaac. Joseph noticed that his father had placed his right hand on Ephraim, who was the youngest. He tried to correct his father and lay Jacob's right hand on Manasseh. However, Jacob refused and told him that he knew that he had placed his right hand on the youngest. Jacob told them that although Manasseh's line would multiply and become great, Ephraim's generations would become a greater multitude of nations. Jacob blessed them all and told them that although he was dying, God would be with them and would take them back to Canaan.

chapter 49

★THEMES Jacob Blesses His Twelve Sons The Death And Burial Of Jacob Jacob's Burial Instructions Benedictions Intercession Israel ★SUMMARY Genesis Chapter 49 Genesis 49 details the blessings and predictions that Jacob gives each of his sons. He tells them that they will become a great nation and that they will become the 12 tribes of Israel. His prophesies to his sons were not his own, but were shown to him by the Lord. Jacob's Blessings Reuben, Jacob's firstborn, lost his inheritance because of his sin wherein he lay with his father's mistress. Israel decreed that his tribe would be as unstable as water and would not be successful. Both Levi and Simeon were hateful and unforgiving. Jacob sentenced them to be separated from each other in the promise land, for, together in their anger, they had killed a man. To Judah, Jacob promised praise and dominion over the tribes of Israel. He compared him to a lion and foretold that the scepter would reside in his tribe until the time of Shiloh. To Zebulun, Jacob gave the sea and all of its trade. He proclaimed that it would be a great port, with its border stretching as far as Zidon. Jacob then prophesied that Issachar would be like a strong donkey crouched between two burdens and that he would become a servant to the other tribes of Israel. Dan, Jacob foretold, would be a judge to the other tribes. He compared him to a snake on the path that would attack riders as they passed. Jacob promised that the tribe of Gad would become warriors. He declared that, while they would be overtaken for a time, they would eventually overcome. Jacob proclaimed that Asher would be rewarded with the best grain in all the land and become rich as a result of it. He promised that royalty would come of his lineage. Naphtali, Jacob predicted, would be like a deer, using beautiful words. To his oldest son by Rachel, Jacob promised a fruitful lineage. He promised that, while others would hate and try to destroy him, the tribe of Joseph would be made strong by the will of God. Jacob compared his youngest son to a ravenous wolf, saying that he would devour his prey in the morning and then split the reward amongst the other tribes in the evening. Jacob's Death After giving each of his sons their blessings, Jacob tasked them with transporting his body to the burial place of his ancestors after his death. He told them that this place was in Canaan, in the field of Machpelah, on an area of land purchased from Ephron the Hittite. Following his instructions, Jacob laid down on his bed and died.

chapter 35

★THEMES Jacob Goes Back To Bethel The Twelve Sons Of Jacob Rachel's Death Israel's Sons Isaac's Death Jacob's Sixth Encounter With God - His Name Changed To Israel The Sons Of Jacob ★SUMMARY Jacob Journeys to Bethel After Jacob's sons had killed Hamor and Shechem, the Lord God commanded him to travel to Bethel to make his home and build an alter. In keeping with the Lord's instructions, Jacob told his family and all the people that lived with him that they were heading to Bethel where he would erect an alter to God, since the Lord had answered his prayers during times of distress. Jacob ordered them to change their garments and gather all the gods that they had. After collecting them, Jacob hid them with the bodies of the men from the city. Jacob Builds an Alter Jacob arrived safely in Bethel and settled with all the people that accompanied him. He built an alter to God and called the place Elbethel meaning "God of Bethel." While there, Rebekah's nurse, Deborah, died, so Jacob buried her in Bethel under an oak tree. God Appears to Jacob When Jacob was leaving Padanaram, the Lord appeared to him and blessed him. He told him that his name would no longer be Jacob, but Israel. He then commanded Israel to multiply, promising him that kings would come from his line. The Lord also promised to give Israel the land that He gave to Abraham and Isaac. After communing with God, Israel built a pillar of stone and poured a wine offering and oil onto it. He named the place "Bethel" because God had spoken to him. Rachel's Death As Israel was leaving Bethel, his wife Rachel went into labor. The labor was hard and painful and, as a result, she died after giving birth. Though she called him Benoni, Israel named his newborn son Benjamin. After her death, Israel buried Rachel in Ephrath, Bethlehem. Israel journeyed on and set his tents past the tower of Edar. Israel's Sons Israel had sons by four different women. Rachel's sons were Joseph and Benjamin. Leah's son included Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar and Zebulun. Rachel's handmaid had two sons called Dan and Naphtali, while Leah's handmaid had two sons called Asher and Gad. Isaac's Death Jacob then returned to Mamre, his father's city. Isaac was very old by that time and died a short while after Israel had arrived. Israel and Esau buried him in his homeland.

chapter 32

★THEMES Jacob Fears Esau Jacob Wrestles With God Jacob Sends Gifts To Esau ★SUMMARY Genesis 32 depicts Jacob's journey to his father's land in Canaan. While he travels, he attempts to make amends with his brother, wrestles with God, and receives the new name of Israel. Jacob Sends Gifts to Esau When Jacob left for Canaan, he knew that he would have to travel through a region controlled by his brother Esau. Therefore, he sent messengers to his brother in Seir, in the country of Edom. He ordered the messengers to tell Esau that Jacob had been living with Laban and had since come into possession of many cattle, flocks and servants. He also instructed them to ask Esau to have mercy on him. Upon their return, the messengers informed Jacob that Esau was on his way to meet them, accompanied by 400 men. Jacob became very afraid and divided the people and flocks into two separate groups, reasoning that if Esau attacked one group, the other could escape. Jacob then prayed to God, asking him to protect him and his family. After praying, he took 200 goats, 30 camels, 220 sheep, and 10 bulls, and gave them to his servants to be taken to Esau as gifts. Jacob instructed them to tell Esau that they were Jacob's servants and that the host of gifts was meant as a peace offering. He then sent his 2 wives and 11 sons ahead and remained to meet Esau by himself. Jacob is Given a New Name That night, Jacob wrestled with a man until morning. And as dawn broke, the man told Jacob to let him go as they had persisted through the night and he had dislocated the joint on Jacob's thigh. Jacob refused and told the man that he would only free him if the man blessed him. The man agreed to bless Jacob and told him that, from that day, he would no longer be called Jacob but Israel for he had struggled with God and men and prevailed. Jacob called the place Peniel, because he had met with God face to face.

chapter 31

★THEMES Jacob Flees From Laban Laban Overtakes Jacob Jacob's Covenant With Laban Laban And Jacob Make Peace The Agreement Between Jacob And Laban The Search For The Stolen Idols Ingratitude Jacob ★SUMMARY When Jacob overheard Laban's sons saying that he had taken away all that belonged to their father, God told him to leave and join his father, Isaac. He gathered his wives, Rachel and Leah, and all of his livestock in preparation to travel to the land of Canaan. As they left the following morning, Rachel stole images that had belonged to Laban, as he had left to shear his sheep that same morning. Laban Pursues Jacob Laban remained unaware of Jacob's departure for three days. Finally, on the third day, he was told of Jacob's and his daughter's flight by one of his servants. After hearing the news, he took his brethren and pursued Jacob for 7 days, overtaking him at mount Gilead where he had pitched a tent. Then God appeared to Laban in a dream, forbidding him from doing Jacob harm. So, when Laban confronted him, he asked why Jacob had stolen his gods and departed in secrecy. Jacob replied that he had been afraid that Laban would retain his daughters by force. As to the images, Jacob declared that whoever Laban found them with would be killed as he was unaware that Rachel had stolen them. However, Rachel avoided death by sitting on the images and claiming she could not move due to the fact that she was menstruating. The Covenant Laban and Jacob agreed to make a covenant to dispel any hostility between them. They gathered stones to construct a pillar which would function as a witness to the pledges they made. Jacob promised never to marry any wives apart from Leah or Rachel. He then made a sacrifice on the mountain and swore that he would not harm Laban in future. Early the next morning, Laban woke up, blessed his daughters and sons, and returned to his home.

chapter 28

★THEMES Jacob Flees To Haran Jacob's Dream Esau Marries An Ishmaelite ★SUMMARY Genesis Chapter 28 Previously, in Chapter 27, Isaac blessed Jacob and gave the responsibility of leadership to Abraham. Laban was one of Rebecca's brothers who lived on the outskirts of Canaan. And so when it was Jacob's time to look for a wife, Laban's home seemed to be the best place to begin. Jacob packed up his luggage and left home to try to find love in a region that was so far away. Abraham, Esau and Jacob After accepting his father's wish, which was to not marry any Canaanites, Esau wedded a daughter from the lineage of Ishmael, Abraham's son born of Hagar. Meanwhile, as Jacob traveled to the mountains of Syria, he had to spend nights in caves, which were on the trajectory of his travels. One night Jacob had a dream. He dreamed that he saw a ladder connecting the earth to heaven, with many of God's messengers moving up and down on it. The Lord then appeared to him. God's Promise to Jacob As the lord appeared to Jacob, he exclaimed "...You and your seed shall be blessed." When he woke up, Jacob could not believe what had just happened. He knew for sure that he had attained God's grace and that he was destined for great things ahead and would be blesses by his father and by his grandfather.

chapter 29

★THEMES Jacob Flees To Haran Jacob's Marriages Jacob Deceived Jacob's Sons Haran Jacob Marriage Wife ★SUMMARY Chapter 29 of the Book of Genesis tells the story of Jacob's intense love for Rachel and the lengths he would go to protect her. We find Jacob being counseled by his father, Isaac, not to choose a wife from among the Canaanite women. This was the same order that Isaac had received from his father, Abraham, who was the patriarch of the Israelites. The Canaanites were so-called pagan and both Abraham and Isaac understood the importance of choosing a wife within the tribes of Israel. The merging of pagan worship with Christian practice was expressly forbidden. Isaac encouraged Jacob to travel to Paddan Aram where Laban, Isaac's brother-in-law and Jacob's uncle, lived with his family. Isaac tells Jacob that he must marry one of Laban's daughters. Jacob Meets Rachel Jacob met Laban's beautiful daughter, Rachel, who was her father's shepherdess. He stayed and worked with Laban. In consideration of Jacob's hard work, Laban pledges a gift to Jacob in exchange for his labor, and Jacob immediately asks for Rachel's hand in marriage. As a further kind gesture, Jacob offers to work another seven years in exchange for Rachel's hand in marriage. Laban agrees. Jacob's love for Rachel was clear; seven years seemed short because Jacob's love was steadfast. The Deception of Laban Although Laban agreed with the marriage his motives were less altruistic than Jacob realized. He feared that his older daughter, Leah, who had vision problems and lacked the physical beauty of Rachel, would be unable to marry and may have to live out her life alone. Laban tricked Jacob into making love to Leah, believing her to be Rachel.

chapter 33

★THEMES Jacob Meets Esau And Settles At Shechem ★SUMMARY Genesis Chapter 33 Genesis 33 describes the meeting between Esau and Jacob. Although Jacob expected his brother to harm him, Esau actually forgave him. The two brothers made amends and Jacob arrived in Canaan. Jacob Meets Esau When Jacob saw his brother coming in the distance accompanied by 400 men, he divided his children amongst Leah, Rachel and two handmaids. The maids together with their children were put in the front line, followed by Leah and her children, with Rachel and her son Joseph bringing up the rear. Jacob went ahead of them and bowed to the ground 7 times as he came towards Esau. Instead of meeting his brother with anger, Esau met him with peace and acceptance in his heart. The brothers embraced and wept at their reunion. When Jacob's wives and the handmaids arrived, Esau asked Jacob who they were. Jacob told him that they were his wives and children. He introduced them, starting with the handmaids and their children, then Leah and her children, and finally Rachel and her son. After meeting his brother's family, Esau told Jacob to take back the gifts that he had sent to him. Jacob refused and begged him to accept them, saying that God had blessed him greatly. Esau relented and accepted his brother's gifts. Jacob and Esau Separate After accepting the gifts, Esau suggested that they break camp and go their separate ways. Because he had young children and several animals that required nursing, Jacob asked Esau to lead while he proceeded at a slower place. Esau agreed and went back to Seir while Jacob journeyed south, toward Succoth, to build a home. Jacob and his family arrived safely at the city of Shechem in Canaan. Here, he bought a piece of land and settled there. After pitching his tent, he erected an alter and called it EleloheIsrael, meaning "the God of Israel."

chapter 47

★THEMES Jacob Settles In Goshen The Famine In Egypt Continues Israel Settles In Goshen ★SUMMARY Genesis 47 details how Joseph's family received the land of Goshen as their dwelling place. It also relates how Joseph dealt with the people throughout the famine and how he procured the money, cattle, and land of the Egyptians for Pharaoh. Pharaoh and Joseph's Family When Joseph learned of the arrival of his family, he hurried to meet them. He then introduced five of his brethren to Pharaoh, who questioned them about their purpose in coming and their needs during their stay. They told the Pharaoh that they were shepherds and requested to dwell in Goshen, so as to tend to their flocks. Pharaoh grants this request and petitions them to take charge of his cattle as well. Afterwards, Joseph brought in his father to present to Pharaoh. Upon meeting the King, Jacob gave his blessings. Pharaoh questioned him about his age, to which Jacob responded that he was 130 years old. After blessing the Pharaoh for the final time, Jacob returned to the rest of his family in Goshen, where Joseph provided them with enough food to live well on. Famine During the years that Jacob and his family were established in Goshen, the seven year famine was still upon Egypt. The people exhausted their financial reserves in purchasing grain, and many began to suffer greatly. As Pharaoh's trusted representative, the people of Egypt and Canaan came to Joseph asking for relief. Joseph bartered with the people, offering to give them bread and grain in exchange for their livestock. The Egyptians agreed, and Joseph greatly increased the Pharaoh's flocks and herds. The following year, the people again sought out Joseph as the famine continued its course. Having already sold their livestock the year before, and having no money, they asked Joseph to purchase their lands and allow the people to live in subjection to Pharaoh as payment. Joseph agreed to their request, and the people's lands, crops, and lives became the properties of Pharaoh. Joseph provided the people with food and seed for planting. He decreed that, since they were now subservient to Pharaoh, they would give a fifth of every harvest to the King. Because they were grateful to Joseph for saving their lives, they agreed. However, none of the land owned by the priests was sold as they had received a sufficient allotment from Pharaoh to sustain them. As for the Israelites, they prospered and multiplied in the area of Goshen. Jacob's Waning Years Jacob remained another 17 years in Goshen, growing older and watching his family grow as well. As he became feebler with old age, he asked Joseph to swear an oath whereby Joseph would promise to not bury Jacob in Egypt, but instead would return Jacob's body to the burial place of his ancestors. Joseph agreed and swore the oath as his father requested.

chapter 27

★THEMES Jacob Steals Esau's Blessing Esau's Anger Esau Begs For Isaac's Blessing Esau Hypocrisy ★SUMMARY Isaac was now 137 years old. He had become weak and blind and realized he would die soon. Therefore, he prepared to hand down all that he had to his eldest son, Esau. Before this, God spoke to Rebecca, telling her that his younger son, Jacob, would take on his kingship. Then Rebecca realized that the handing down of the estate would come soon. She also knew that she had to do something to stop Isaac from accepting that all of the items would be given to Esau. Rebecca, Isaac, Jacob and Esau Esau spent a lot of his time hunting, and consequently, Rebecca made arrangements to trick Isaac into confusing Jacob for Esau. Rebecca prepared Jacob a special bowl of soup from a child's flesh spiced with onion, garlic, lemon juice and salts to take to his father. Jacob was made to wear a piece on his cheeks and put on a long white robe so that he may pass for Esau. He also wore a deep perfume that closely resembled the "aromatic odors of the Syrian fields". After these preparations, Jacob confidently looked to his father, who gave the blessing to him and ultimately passed the estate to him instead of Esau.

chapter 30

★THEMES Jacob's Children Jacob's Prosperity ★SUMMARY Genesis 30 describes Jacob's family and how over time his family grew. Moreover, it follows a conflict between two sisters, Rachel and Leah, who both intended to bare the most children for Jacob. When Rachel realized that she could not have children, she began envying her sister, Leah. She was so adamant about this that she went to Jacob and asked him to help her conceive a child, or she would die. This angered Jacob and so he subsequently he told Rachel that he did not have the powers of God. As did Sarah, Rachel wanted to conceive, so she suggested that Jacob have intercourse with her maid, Bilhah, so that she could have a son. Jacob agreed and Bilhah bore him two sons. The first son was Dan, meaning justice, while the second was called Naphtali, meaning to wrestle. Leah could not bear children, so she gave her servant, Zilpah. Zilpah bore two sons: Gad and Asher. Leah Bears More Children After Asher was born, Leah and Jacob had a son named Issachar. Following this, Leah and Asher had another son named Zebulun, and a daughter: Dinah. Rachel continued her prayers to God to bless her with a son. These were acknowledged and she became pregnant by Jacob. Rachel gave birth to a son whom she named Joseph.

chapter 39

★THEMES Joseph In Potiphar's House Joseph In Prison Joseph Put In Prison Joseph Is Put Into Prison ★SUMMARY Genesis 39 begins with Joseph being sold by the Ishmeelites as a slave to Potiphar, Pharaoh's officer and commander of the guard. He sees that Joseph is successful at whatever he undertakes and appoints him as his personal attendant, putting him in charge of his whole household and entrusting him with all his possessions. However, Potiphar's wife claims that Joseph tried to rape her, so he is imprisoned. Potiphar is Pleased with Joseph After Potiphar purchased Joseph, he noticed that the Lord's blessing was with him in whatever he did. Joseph served Potiphar well and eventually found favor in his sight. He was given the highest position in the household and oversaw all of Potiphar's possessions. And the Lord blessed Potiphar's house for Joseph's sake. Potiphar's Wife Tempts Joseph As time passed, Potiphar's wife became attracted to Joseph and invited him to sleep with her. Being virtuous, Joseph refused and said he would not betray her husband in such a manner or sin against God. Though he rejected her advances, Potiphar's wife continued trying to tempt Joseph even as he continued to refuse. Joseph is Accused One day, Potiphar's wife and Joseph happened to be alone in the house together. Seizing the opportunity, she tore off his tunic and insisted that he sleep with her. Joseph ran out of the house in an effort to avoid the situation, leaving his clothing with her. Upset and humiliated by this rejection, Potiphar's wife called the other servants and claimed that Joseph tried to attack her and ran away when she screamed. She repeated the lie to Potiphar upon his return home. Her husband believed her and became so enraged that Joseph would attempt such a thing. He had Joseph arrested and sent to jail. Joseph is Imprisoned Though he had been arrested, Joseph continued to be blessed by God and found favor with the chief jailer. He gave Joseph charge of all the prisoners and made him responsible for all that happened in the jail.

chapter 40

★THEMES Joseph Interprets Dreams In Prison Baker Butler Fortune, Changes of Prisoners Punishment ★SUMMARY Genesis 40 is about how Joseph interpreted the dreams of Pharaoh's chief baker and butler while still in jail. The 23 verses in this chapter describe how the two men's dreams came true after Joseph had interpreted them. Pharaoh's Officers Sent to Jail Some time after Joseph was incarcerated, the Pharaoh's chief butler and baker offended him. The king became angry and had them imprisoned. As the chief jailer had tasked him with taking care of the other prisoners, Joseph was put in charge of serving the two officials. The Dreams of Men After they had been in jail for a season, the chief butler and baker started having dreams. When Joseph came to see them the next morning, he asked them why they looked sad. They told him that they had a dream but there was nobody to interpret it. Joseph asked to hear the dreams of each man so that he might interpret them. The Butler's Dream In the chief butler's dream, he saw a vine before him. The vine had 3 branches that had produced ripe grapes. In the dream, the butler held Pharaoh's cup in his hand and pressed the grapes into the cup and served them to the Pharaoh. After hearing the dream, Joseph told the butler that the branches meant that in 3 days, Pharaoh would put him back in his usual position and the butler would continue serving the King. When he had finished explaining the meaning, Joseph asked the butler to remember him when he returned and persuade Pharaoh to release him from jail. The Baker's Dream In the chief baker's dream, he had 3 white baskets on his head. The top basket held various types of bread for the king, but, before he could be served, birds flew down and ate the bread. Joseph told him the dream meant that within 3 days, he would be removed from prison and hanged from a tree where birds would eat his flesh. Joseph's Predictions Three days later, Pharaoh held a big feast in his palace for his birthday. All the servants were invited, including the chief butler and baker. The chief butler was reinstated in his original position and continued to serve Pharaoh. The baker, however, was hanged as Joseph had predicted. And, though he had promised to speak on his behalf, the chief butler forgot about Joseph.

chapter 41

★THEMES Joseph Interprets Pharaoh's Dreams Joseph Rises To Power Joseph's Administration Joseph Advises Pharaoh Joseph Tells The Dreams' Meaning Joseph In Charge Of Egypt Egypt Famine God ★SUMMARY Genesis 41 relates how Joseph was brought out of prison to serve the Pharaoh. He interprets the Pharaoh's dream and is then placed in the second highest office in all of Egypt to ensure that the people are ready for an oncoming famine. Pharaoh's Dreams While Joseph was still in prison, the Pharaoh had a dream in which he stood by the river and saw seven healthy and well fed cows come from the waters. Afterwards, seven thin and sickly cows came out of the river and ate the healthy ones. In the second dream, he saw seven healthy heads of corn. Then seven thin heads of corn came and swallowed the healthy ones. The following morning Pharaoh called for all the wise men and magicians of Egypt. He recalled the dreams to them but no one could interpret their meanings. The Chief Butler Remembers Joseph When no one could discern the meaning of Pharaoh's dreams, the chief butler remembered Joseph and told Pharaoh how he had correctly interpreted the dreams that he and the baker had. He told Pharaoh that the interpretations given to them by Joseph both came true. Hearing this, Pharaoh ordered for Joseph to be brought before him so that he could interpret the dreams concerning the seven cows and heads of corn. After he had arrived, Pharaoh narrated the dreams to Joseph. Joseph told the Pharaoh that the dreams were of one meaning and that Egypt would experience seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. He also informed Pharaoh that, as God was showing him what He was going to do, Pharaoh should look for a wise man to be put in charge of collecting part of the food throughout Egypt in preparation for the famine. Joseph is Given a Position of Power Because he interpreted Pharaoh's dreams, Joseph was made second in command of all Egypt. He was given Potipherah's daughter, Asenath, as a wife and was tasked with overseeing the collection and storage of the surplus from the harvests. Joseph and Asenath were blessed with two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, before the start of the famine. When food from the harvest began to dwindle, the people came to Pharaoh, asking for help. Pharaoh instructed his people to go to Joseph, as he had stored enough food to last them through the famine. The shortage of food was felt throughout all the land and many other countries also went to Egypt to buy provisions.

chapter 45

★THEMES Joseph Reveals His Identity The Return For Jacob Joseph ★SUMMARY In Genesis 45, Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers. At first they were afraid, but Joseph calmed them, telling them that he was sent to Egypt by God. Joseph's brothers rejoice and leave to inform their father that Joesph was alive. Joseph Reveals His Identity Upon seeing Judah beg to switch places with Benjamin, Joseph revealed his identity to his brothers. He told them not to fear or be angry with themselves for what they had done to him because it was God that sent him to Egypt to preserve the life of his family. After revealing his identity, Joseph instructs his brothers to return to Israel so that he might know his son was alive. Moreover, he tells his brothers to gather all of their belongings and family members in Caanan and bring them to Egypt so that they might live out the remaining five years of famine with enough food to eat. Pharaoh is Pleased for Joseph Eventually, the Pharaoh heard the news of Joseph's family and invited him to bring his household to Egypt. He provided wagons to bring the women and children and to carry Joseph's father in his old age. Joseph's Brothers Return to Israel Before his brothers returned home to Israel, Joseph gave them many gifts and items of clothing. Benjamin, the only brother Joseph shared a mother with, received more gifts than any of his brothers. When they had returned to Canaan, Israel was astounded to learn that Joseph was still alive. When the wagons arrived to take him into Egypt, he exclaimed joyfully and professed his wish to see his lost son again before he died.

chapter 37

★THEMES Joseph Sold Into Slavery By His Brothers Joseph's Dreams Joseph Sold Into Slavery Malice ★SUMMARY Genesis 37 deals with Israel's favor for his young son and the conspiracy of Joseph's brothers to rid themselves of him. Because Israel loved him best, He gave Joseph a beautiful multicolored coat that caused jealousy among his other sons. As a result, Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery and told their father that he had been killed by an animal. His Brothers' Jealousy Joseph was born to Israel, formerly called Jacob. As his youngest son, he loved Joseph so much that it elicited jealousy in the hearts of his other children and caused them to treat him harshly. Their hatred increased when Joseph related to them that his dreams had shown the other members of his family bowing down to him. When Israel gifted Joseph with a magnificent coat, the jealousy reached such a point that the brothers began plotting to rid themselves of Joseph. The Plan The brothers did not have to wait long for their opportunity to harm Joseph. After they had left one day, Israel asked Joseph to travel to where they were herding his sheep and check to ensure that all was well. Joseph agreed to comply with his father's wishes and traveled in search of his brothers. However, as Joseph appeared in the distance, they saw him coming and began plotting to do away with him. They decided to seize Joseph and throw him into an empty cistern, tear up his coat, and fabricate a story to tell their father about the demise of his son. The brothers succeeded in capturing Joseph and threw him into the cistern, but two of his brothers, Reuben and Judah, did not wish to for him to actually die. The Aftermath The brothers compromised and sold their brother to a band of Ishmeelites for 20 pieces of silver instead. Afterwards, they tore Joseph's coat to shreds, dipped the damaged garment in goat's blood, and returned to their father to recount their lie. Upon hearing the story, Israel's heart was broken and he mourned the loss of Joseph for many days. Though his sons and daughters tried to console him, he tore his clothes and claimed that he would die still mourning the death of his son. Joseph's Journey After he had been sold to them, the Ishmeelites journeyed to Egypt where Joseph was sold to Potiphar, an advisor to the Pharaoh and captain of his guard.

chapter 50

★THEMES The Death Of Joseph Jacob's Burial Joseph's Kindness Joseph Reassures His Brothers ★SUMMARY Genesis 50 concludes the Book of Genesis with a description of the burial of Jacob and the death of Joseph. It also features Joseph's kindness towards his brothers after the death of their father. The Death of Jacob After his death, physicians prepared Jacob's body for burial. Following their father's embalming, Jacob's sons, their families, and many of Pharaoh's officials took his body to the land Canaan. After burying him in the cave of Machpelah, Joseph returned to Egypt. When their father had passed on, Joseph's brothers were afraid that he might punish them for their actions against him. Therefore, they pleaded with him, claiming that Jacob had called for him to be forgiving. Joseph spoke to them kindly and forgave them for what they had done. He claimed that, though they had acted wickedly concerning him, God had bent their actions for good. Joseph did not to judge his brothers as his time in Egypt had saved the lives of many. The Death of Joseph After returning from Canaan, Joseph spent his entire life in Egypt. During his lifetime, he saw three new generations come from his sons. Before he died, Joseph consoled his brethren, telling them that God would help them to leave Egypt. Following his death at 110 years old, Joseph was embalmed and laid in a coffin in Egypt.

chapter 44

★THEMES Joseph Tests His Brothers Judah's Plea For Benjamin ★SUMMARY Genesis 44 gives a description of how Joseph sneaked a cup into his brother's bag, with the intention of forcing all his brothers to come back to Egypt. When the cup is discovered in Benjamin's bag, Judah begs Joseph to let him stay in servitude in Benjamin's place. A Silver Cup is Placed in Benjamin's Sack After they had feasted together, Joseph ordered his servants to fill his brothers' sacks with food and to put the money they had brought back in the sacks too. Joseph also ordered his servant to put a silver cup in Benjamin's sack. After they had left the city and had gone for a short distance, Joseph ordered his steward to follow and overtake them. When he caught up with the party, he asked them why they had decided to steal from Joseph. The Cup is Found When the steward overtook Joseph's brothers, he did as he had been ordered and accused them of theft. The brothers replied that they had not stolen anything and pointed out that they had returned the money they had found in their sacks when they first came to Egypt to buy food. They declared that whoever the cup was found with could be taken back to Egypt as a slave to Joseph. The steward agreed and searched all the sacks, starting with the eldest brother. When the cup was found in Benjamin's sack, they returned to the city as quickly as possible. They were brought before Joseph where Judah began pleading for mercy and asking Joseph to take him as a slave instead. Judah Pleads with Joseph Judah explained that Benjamin was the only remaining son of his father's beloved wife. Moreover, he told Joseph that if Benjamin did not go back home, their father would certainly die of grief. He therefore begged Joseph to let Benjamin go home even if it meant staying behind in servitude himself.

chapter 42

★THEMES Joseph's Brothers Go To Egypt For Food The Brothers Return Home Joseph Sends Nine Of His Brothers Back To Canaan Jacob's [Israel's] Sons Report To Him Joseph's Brothers Return To Canaan Benjamin Deception Exports Falsehood Hypocrisy Joseph ★SUMMARY Genesis 42 contains 38 verses which detail how Joseph met with his brothers, more than 20 years after they had sold him as a slave. Jacob sent his sons to go and buy food in Egypt since there was famine in Canaan. Although they did not recognize Joseph at their first meeting, Joseph recognized his brothers and began to plan how he might reunite with his family. Jacob's Sons Go to Egypt When Jacob learned that there was plenty of food in Egypt, he sent his all of his sons except Benjamin to go and buy provisions. Since Joseph was in charge of selling food, when his brothers came to Egypt, they sought counsel with him, not knowing who he was. Though they did not recognize him, Joseph recognized his brothers and asked them where they came from. They responded, telling him that they were from Canaan. Joseph accused them of being spies but they denied the claim, saying that they were 12 brothers, missing only the youngest which stayed with their father and one who was no more. Joseph Calls for Benjamin Joseph told his brothers that he did not believe them and that one of them had to go back and bring their youngest brother to Egypt if they were to be proven innocent. He then put his remaining brethren in prison for 3 days. On the fourth day, he went to the prison and released all of them, except for Simeon. He ordered his servants to fill their sacks with corn. After they had been filled, Joseph put the money they had used to buy food back in the sacks as well. On their journey home, one of them noticed that his money had been replaced and all of them were frightened. Jacob's Sons Return Home When they arrived home, they told their father what had happened in Egypt. They told him that the governor had taken Simeon and would only release him if they brought Benjamin back to prove they were not spies. As Jacob believed that Joseph was already dead and had learned that Simeon was detained, he was reluctant to let Benjamin go. Although Reuben had sworn to bring Benjamin back, Jacob insisted that if something happened to Benjamin he would die of sorrow.

chapter 43

★THEMES Joseph's Brothers Return To Egypt The Return To Egypt The Banquet At Joseph's House A Feast At Joseph's Palace ★SUMMARY Genesis 43 deals with the continuation of the famine. When the grain that they bought in Egypt runs out, Joseph's brothers return with Benjamin to buy more. Joseph welcomes them into his home and they share a meal together. Israel Sends His Sons Back to Egypt When their provisions from Egypt ran out, Israel instructed his sons to go and buy more food. Although he was reluctant to let Benjamin go, procuring fresh supplies for the family took precedence. Before the brothers began their journey, they gathered twice as much money as the last time in case its return to their sacks was an oversight. They also packed fruits and spices to present to Joseph as a gift. Joseph's Brothers Return to Egypt The brothers arrived in Egypt and stood again before Joseph. As Joseph was busy with his public duties, he put them in the care of a confidential servant until later in the day. He told them that he would arrive at noon to dine with them. Joseph and His Brothers Share a Meal When the men entered the house they were very afraid. They spoke to the servant explaining that the money they had used to buy food the last time was found again in their sacks. He silenced them, saying that he had their money and that God must have blessed them with more. He then led them into the house where they prepared their gift for Joseph. Joseph arrived at noon and greeted them. He inquired of Benjamin and asked about the health of their father. They passed the time merrily, drinking wine and eating food.

chapter 38

★THEMES Judah And Tamar ★SUMMARY Judah's Marriage and Sons Judah took for a wife a Canaanite woman called Shuah. She conceived three times and gave birth to Er, Onan, and Shelah. Now, when the firstborn son was old enough to marry, Judah procured a wife for him by the name of Tamar. However, Er was a wicked man in the sight of the Lord. And so, God destroyed him. Widowed and childless, this meant that Onan carried the responsibility of inheriting her and producing an heir for his brother. Onan displeased the Lord also, in that he slept with Tamar but did not allow her the chance to become pregnant. For his iniquity, God slew Onan as well. At this point in time, Shelah was still too young to marry. Therefore, Judah instructed Tamar to go home and live with her father until he was old enough for marriage. Judah Breaks His Word to Tamar Over time, Tamar saw that Shelah was of age, but she had not been given to him as a wife. Therefore, She disguised herself as a prostitute and Judah saw her in the city. Not recognizing her as his daughter-in-law, Judah laid with her and she became pregnant with twins. She was given his signet, bracelets, and staff as a pledge until she received her payment. However, after Judah left, she took off her disguise so that the prostitute he slept with could not be found. Judah Calls for Tamar's Death When Judah heard that Tamar had become pregnant, he became very angry and called to have her burned. However, before her sentence could be carried out, Tamar produced the ring, bracelets, and staff, proving that Judah was the father. After seeing this, Judah relented because he had originally broken his word and condemned her to be childless. So Tamar gave birth to twin boys, Pharez and Zarah.

chapter 6

★THEMES Prelude To The Flood Judgment Decreed God Warns Noah Noah Flood Judgments Religion ★SUMMARY Genesis 6 describes how, over time, men and women began to procreate and increase in numbers. Men and women placed less emphasis on spiritual matters and thus less emphasis on God in their lives. They became known as the 'Giants of the Earth'. Furthermore, humanity became secularized as time passed, and this made men and women begin to question their relationship with God. As a result, God was affected-angered-and he began to consider his decision to create man. God's Response and Noah's Ark Corruption and the violence among men became so commonplace that God made a radical decision. He chose to punish men and women collectively and forcefully. God called on a man named Noah while simultaneously creating a great flood to punish humanity. Noah was austere and kind, and this pleased God; he hoped Noah would serve as a role model for a fallen peoples. God commanded Noah to build a giant "Ark", and if he did so he would save himself from the flood soon to come. God advised Noah on how to build the ark. Noah followed his instructions carefully and built the ark according to God's specific design. Two By Two Because God believed humanity had forsaken him, he chose instead to have Noah save every species of animal by walking them to the ark "two by two". Each animal species would enter the ark as a male and a female. God decided also to save all of Noah's family, including his own wife, sons, and the wives of his sons. As they prepared for the great flood, Noah gathered food and supplies so as to provide his family and the many animals with the necessities for a long journey. God wanted to recreate the human species anew and establish a special covenant with Noah and his family.

chapter 23

★THEMES Sarah's Death And Burial Burial Hittites Sarah ★SUMMARY Genesis 23 is about the death and burial of Abraham's wife, Sarah. Sarah was 127 years old and died in a place called Kirjatharba in the land of Canaan. The Bible says that Abraham was very sad because for a long time; he depended on and loved Sarah very much. Living without Sarah was inconceivable to Abraham. Sarah soon died and Abraham was forced to negotiate with the locals for a piece of land to bury Sarah. Finding a place to bury Sarah was not easy. Genesis 23 explains that Abraham had to humble himself before local merchants who viewed him as a mere stranger. Burying Sarah Abraham finally got the right to buy Sarah's grave. A merchant named Ephron said of Abraham, "The land is worth four hundred shekels of silver; what's that betwixt me and you? Bury therefore your dead wife". After purchasing the merchant's land, Abraham proceeds to bury his beloved wife in a cave. Although we see Abraham confounded with the task of buying a cave to bury her, God finally helps Abraham find a cave to bury his wife's remains.

chapter 16

★THEMES Sarai And Hagar Hagar And The Angel Of Yahweh Hagar Polygamy ★SUMMARY Genesis 16 is an intriguing narrative about how Sarai and Abram received intimate promises from God. God promised Abram many children even though Sarah was barren and growing older and weaker every day. After many years of waiting, Sarai began to doubt God's promises to Abram. She could not see how Abram could father a nation while she was unable to have a child. So Sarai decided to take matters into her own hands by requesting that her husband sleep with one of their maids named Hagar. Consequently, Abram slept with Hagar and conceived a child. God Speaking to Hagar An angel appeared to Hagar in the wilderness, commanding her to go back to Sarai and ask her for forgiveness. She carried a son and promised to bear even more, ultimately sending them to the remote parts of the world. After God's angel appeared to Hagar, she exclaimed "El-roi!, is it true that I've seen the lord and stayed alive?" This occurred in a placed named Beer-lahai-roi.

chapter 21

★THEMES The Birth Of Isaac Hagar And Ishmael The Covenant Between Abraham And Abimelech ★SUMMARY In Chapter 21, God fulfills his promise to give Sarah a son. Sarah and Abraham were very old. However, God kept his promise to them in a unique way. Sarah finally conceived a baby boy, and upon giving birth they named him Isaac. The boy was circumcised on the eighth day in accordance with God's covenant with Abraham. Hagar, Abraham, and Ishmael Previously, in Chapter 20, Hagar and Abraham had a baby boy. As Isaac was growing up, Sarah noticed Hagar's son mocking, and out of anger, she confronted Abraham and forced Hagar from his home. Abraham, who was entirely honest, found it difficult to comply with Sarah's request without involving God. Once in the wilderness, Hagar and her son faced a difficult situation. And then, upon crying to God, he sent his messenger to comfort her and to breathe new life into her son, Ishmael. Ishmael would eventually grow up to be a successful archer. Abraham and Abimelech worked together and forged a special covenant

chapter 12

★THEMES The Call Of Abram Abram's Journey Abram In Egypt ★SUMMARY The Bible story of Abram is integral to understanding a man's direct relationship with God. We recognize Abram as the father of nations because of his long travels and how he worked very hard ensure God's trust and thus his own faith as well. God gave Abram many instructions and had him travel to many regions. Chapter 12 describes the many ways Abram was tested by God and how he interacted with the many the cultures and societies he encountered as he traveled East. Abram stopped in two places: the Mountain of Bethel and Egypt. Abram and His Travels At the Mountain of Bethel, Abram built an alter to God. When he arrived in Egypt, he encountered a terrible famine. It was also in Egypt that Abram married his barren wife, Sarai. It was believed that if Abram was captured by the Egyptians, Sarai's beauty alone would protect him. Ultimately, the Lord plagued Egypt, and in return, Pharaoh sent Abram and his wife away.

chapter 25

★THEMES The Death And Descendants Of Abraham Jacob And Esau Abraham's Death Ishmael's Family Records Esau Sells His Birthright The Death And Burial Of Abraham ★SUMMARY After Sarah died, Abraham married another wife, Keturah, with whom he fathered six children: Zimran, Medan, Jokshan, Midian, Shuah, and Ishbak. Abraham's family began to increase. He also had concubines who gave birth to two sons. As Abraham realized that he was getting older, he decided to avoid a conflict between Isaac and his young ones by sharing with them. Abraham gave Isaac a large amount of his wealth. He passes away at 315. Isaac Takes Over From His Father After Abraham's death in the cave, Machpelah, we can now follow Isaac's story. At the age of 40 he meets a beautiful woman named Rebecca. Rebecca was also barren. As Isaac called on the Lord to help Rebecca conceive, she became pregnant with twins. The twins became very competitive even in Rebecca's womb. As Rebecca became privy to the situation, she too called on God and he told her that the twins would represent two warring nations, and the older son was to assist the younger one.

chapter 36

★THEMES The Descendants Of Esau The Kings Of Edom Seir's Family Edomites Esau Genealogy Rulers ★SUMMARY Genesis 36 revolves around Esau's lineage, a people known as the Edomites. Esau's descendants inhabited Mount Seir since their livestock and wealth was so abundant that they could not abide with Jacob and his descendants. Esau Marries Women from Canaan When he departed from his family Esau had promised to abide by his father's command not to marry a foreigner. However, he broke his vow and married three daughters of Canaan: Adah, Anah, and Bashemath. He took his wives and all that he had acquired with him when he went down to meet his brother Jacob. After the two brothers had reconciled, it became apparent that their livestock and wealth was so great that they could not live together. Therefore, Esau gathered his belongings and went to live on Mount Seir. Esau's Geneology Esau fathered many sons before going to meet his brother Jacob. His wives gave birth to five sons, called Eliphaz, Reuel, Juesh, Jaalam, and Korah. His family tree continued to expand after he returned to Mount Seir. Eliphaz's Lineage Esau's son Eliphaz married a concubine named Timna who bore him six sons named Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, Kenaz, and Amalek. Of these sons, Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, Amalek, and Kenaz became dukes. Reuel's Descendants Reuel had four sons called Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah. All of the sons of Reuel became dukes. Aholibamah's Geneology Aholibamah was the daughter of Anah and she bore Jeush, Jaalam, and Korah. Like Reuel's descendants, all of the sons of Aholibamah also became dukes. Esau's Lineage Continued Esau's family continued to expand, with many of his offspring achieving high political offices. As his offspring continued to multiply, they reached such numbers that they became known as a separate people, the Edomites.

chapter 11

★THEMES The Descendants Of Shem The Descendants Of Terah The Tower Of Babylon ★SUMMARY Genesis 11 outlines how the different languages of the world came into being. The Tower Of Babel As the human race grew, the whole world was speaking one language and all descendants of Ham, Japheth and Shem still could communicate with one another regardless of their different locations and social habits. With time, as they migrated eastwards to occupy new territories of the world, they reached a plain land called Shinar. Here, they decided to build a city and a tower tall enough to touch the heavens. The tower would be a symbol to unite the people in case they became scattered across the land. God realized that the people were poised to accomplish anything in their unity so he caused the people to speak different languages. He confused their tongues so they would be limited to a certain scope of thinking. The city was called Babel, which means "a place of confusion." Shem's Lineage Shem begot Arphaxad, who begot Salah. Salah begot Eber, who begot Peleg. Peleg begot Reu, who begot Serug. Serug begot Nahor, who begot Terah. Terah begot Abram, Nahor, and Haran. Haran begot Lot and died before his father Terah in Ur of the Chaldees. Abram took for a wife a woman by the name of Sarai, who turned out to be barren. His brother Nahor married a woman called Milcah. Terah took his sons and their families out of the land of Ur to a place called Haran where he died at the age of 205.

chapter 10

★THEMES The Descendants Of The Sons Of Noah The 30 Descendants Of Ham The 26 Descendants Of Shem Descendants Of Japheth Conclusion Dispersion Earth Genealogy ★SUMMARY Genesis 10 explains the origin of our nations. It is a comprehensive narrative of how Noah's family increased after the catastrophic flood. After Noah and his family settled themselves, his three sons sought out to accomplish what God instructed them to do when he handed down the ark covenant: peopling the world. Noah's Lineages The second verse of chapter 10 discusses Japheth's family, which consisted of seven children: Gomer, Magog, Madai, Tubal, Javan, Tiras and Meshech. It is believed that Japheth's people inhabited mainly coastal areas around the Palestinian coastline. They are the descendents of the people of today's modern Greece. Ham fathered many sons. Nimrod was his most outstanding son, a mighty warrior who lived in Canaan, Philistine, and Assyria. These people were the family of Noah, nations spreading all over the known Earth after the flood.

chapter 7

★THEMES The Flood Entering The Ark God Meteorology and Celestial Phenomena Miracles Noah ★SUMMARY After completing the construction of the ark, God commanded Noah to house pairs of all the animals of the earth within seven days. God instructed him to collect pairs of animals in groups of two or seven, according to their kind. At the end of the seven days, he and his family were to board the ark to escape the wrath of the waters. The Flood Begins After the days that had been allotted by the Lord had passed, Noah and his family boarded the ark along with the animals. Noah was 600 years old when God caused the flood waters to rain down for 40 days and 40 nights. The waters continued to swell until nothing of the land could be seen. Every man and animal that had been left died except for Noah and his family, whom God kept safe. The flood was upon the earth for a total of 150 days.

chapter 8

★THEMES The Flood Subsides The Lord's Promise God's Covenant With Noah ★SUMMARY After the flood, God forced more consequences on humanity. Genesis, Chapter 8 details the actions of Noah and those animals and people who gathered with him on the ark. God set into motion a great wind to dry the water which was left over after the great flood. He stopped the rain, a process which took one hundred and fifty days. » All the Books in the Bible « After the flood, Noah's ark is said to have settled on the mountains of Ararat. And after a ten month period, the peaks of mountains could finally be seen. Noah, the Dove, and the Olive Leaf The book of Genesis chapter 8 reveals that when Noah to left the ark, God sent a dove as a sign that he would stop the judgments. The dove brought with it an olive leaf to demonstrate that the waters had indeed abated and vegetation would begin growing again. After some time, Noah emerged and looked carefully at what had come of the ark. "Increase and Multiply" God told Noah that he and his family could now leave the ark. He asked them to be fruitful and multiply, to recreate humanity which would then start anew. The same applied to all of the animals that God asked Noah to safeguard in the ark. Noah built an altar, burnt offerings on it, and praised his savior. He was pleased with Noah so he made a covenant with him. In Chapter 8, God ultimately promised never to again attack his own people-his flock-nor would he judge and attack the Earth's people and animals as he did in the great flood.

chapter 2

★THEMES The Generations Of Heaven And Earth The Seventh Day God Rests The Man And Woman In Eden The First Woman ★SUMMARY God's First Creations: Adam and the Garden of Eden The second chapter of the Genesis discusses how God created man. Genesis tells us that Adam was the first human created on Earth, out of the dust. God endowed him with the breath of life, and in this instance, he gave Adam a soul. Soon afterwards, God created the Garden of Eden; in this garden, he placed a special tree, which Adam was forbidden to eat from. God's command was steadfast and so he expected Adam to abide by it. In the Garden of Eden, God grew trees to provide sustenance to man and flowing rivers from which to drink. The four rivers are now the Pison, Gihon, Hiddekel, and Euphrates. God's Creation of Eve At this point, God realized that man should not live alone. He then created the creatures on Earth and asked Adam to name them. God decided ultimately that Adam would need more than just the animals of the land and the sky. As a consequence, he took one of Adam's ribs, and from this rib, he created Eve. God made Eve a part of Adam: a part of Man; she was created from Adam's own body. This is an essential part of Genesis; this is why Christian, Protestant and Catholic recognize man and wife, through Adam and Eve's union: "they shall be one flesh".

chapter 13

★THEMES The Parting Of Abram And Lot The Lord's Third Promise To Abram Abraham ★SUMMARY Abram and Lot journeyed out of Egypt with their families to explore the south. They went as far as Bethel, where Abram had built an alter when they originally departed for Egypt. Here, Abram stopped to call on the Lord. The Separation of Abram and Lot Both Abram and Lot had an abundance of livestock, the multitude of which left the land unable to support them both. Arguments broke out between the herdsmen which caused strife between the houses. Although they were reluctant to, Abram and Lot separated their companies to avoid further dispute. Lot and Abram Settle Abram allowed Lot to decide which part of the land he wanted, so Lot settled in the plain of Jordan near Sodom. Because Lot occupied Jordan, God gave Abram the land of Canaan to inhabit. God's Promise to Abram After Abram had separated from Lot, the Lord spoke to him saying that all the land of Canaan was his and that his inhabitants would be as numerous as the sand on the earth. Abram took down his tent and walked the breadth of the land as God commanded him. He settled in the land of Hebron, and built a new alter to worship the Lord.

chapter 34

★THEMES The Rape Of Dinah And The Massacre At Shechem Dinah Falsehood Jacob Levi Shechem Simeon ★SUMMARY Genesis 34 describes the rape of Jacob's daughter, Dinah, by Hamor's son, Shechem. The chapter also details how the men in Hamor's city were tricked into being circumcised so as to coexist with the Israelites. Two of Jacob's sons then stole into the city and killed every male that lived therein. The Rape of Dinah After Jacob's family had settled outside the city, Dinah went out to visit the daughters of the land. Hamor the Hivite's son, Shechem, was the acting prince of the city when he first perceived Dinah. After seeing her, Shechem took and defiled Dinah by raping her. After he had done this, he fell in love with her and immediately went to ask his father to let him marry her. When Jacob learned that his daughter had been defiled, he decided to hold his tongue until his sons came back from the field where they were tending his cattle. When they returned home and learned what had befallen their sister, they became very angry. When he saw that Jacob's sons had returned home, Hamor went to consult with them, asking them to allow his son to marry Dinah. Jacob's Sons Deception He told Jacob that if he agreed to the marriage proposal, Hamor would allow Jacob's sons to marry the daughters in the city. He also promised to give them land where they could live as long as they wanted. Shechem then came forward and pleaded for mercy and pledged that he would give Jacob and his sons anything as long as they would allow him to marry Dinah. Jacob's sons refused and cunningly told Hamor that they could never allow their sister to marry an uncircumcised person. They told him that they would allow the wedding to take place only if all the men in the city agreed to be circumcised. Otherwise, they would take their sister and leave. Because Shechem was in love with Dinah, both men agreed to the proposal. They went to the gate of the city and summoned all the men and told them that Jacob and his family were free to dwell in the city as they were of peaceful intent. Hamor then commanded the men to be circumcised so that they might make unions between theirs and Jacob's children. The men agreed to this and were circumcised shortly thereafter. Jacob's Sons Betrayal Three days after the men of the city had been circumcised, they were sore and nursing their wounds. It was then that Jacob's sons Levi and Simeon entered the city and slew all the men, including Hamor and Shechem. They then took Dinah, destroyed the city, and took all of the livestock, wealth, and women as captives. When Jacob saw what his sons had done, he was greatly angered as he believed that the Canaanites and Perizzites would gather together against him and slaughter his family.

chapter 19

★THEMES The Rescue Of Lot From Sodom The Destruction Of Sodom Lot And His Daughters Lot Leaves Sodom, And The Cities Are Destroyed God Lot Miracles ★SUMMARY Chapter 20 pertains to the events surrounding the lives of Abraham, Abimelech, Sarah and God. Abraham went south and told Abimelech that Sarah was really his sister. God told Abimelech that he would kill him because he took a man's wife. He would not touch Sarah. God told Abimelech to pray and he may live, "if you don't restore her, you will die." Abimelech asked Abraham, "What do you want to do to me?" I know I have made you angry; you have brought on me and my nation sin and anger from God. Abraham said that Sarah really was his sister, his father's daughter, but not that of his mother. Abimelech gave sheep and oxen and his servants to Abraham and gave him Sarah. Consequently, Abimelech shared his land with Abraham and a great deal of silver. Abraham subsequently prayed, and God took care of Abimelech and all of his family. This saved and restored Abimelech's home.

chapter 18

★THEMES Yahweh Appears To Abraham As A Man Abraham Intercedes For Sodom Sarah Laughs Abraham's Plea For Sodom Abraham's Bargain With God ★SUMMARY Genesis 18 conveys a unique moment in Abraham's life. He receives three unexpected visitors in the middle of the day. These were not ordinary visitors from God. These men were God's special envoys and had a special message of Abraham. In his tent, Abraham spotted three men coming towards his home. He rushed outside, received them warmly, and had Sarah prepare them a special meal. As Sarah eavesdropped on the conversation she could not believe that they were discussing "a future son" that she would have. Sodom and Gomorrah During this time, there was a city called Sodom and Gomorrah. God saw only wickedness and sin, and many people were outwardly disobedient to God. So upon leaving Adam's neighborhood, God immediately judged and condemned the people who lived in Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham asked if God would destroy the entire city. He hoped that God would spare the good people.

chapter 15

★THEMES Yahweh's Covenant With Abram Abraham Prayer Religion ★SUMMARY Genesis Chapter 15 Genesis 15 focuses on the treaty between God and Abram. God reiterates and expands on his promise to multiply Abram's descendants in Canaan. The Lord Speaks to Abram Abram questioned the Lord about his inheritance as his wife was barren and could have no children. The Lord answered him, saying that one of Abram's own blood would be his heir and that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars. So Abram believed in the Lord's words and righteousness. Abram's Inheritance God also gave him possession of the land and Abram asked how he would inherit it. In answer, God asked Abram to bring a number of creatures for sacrifice. Abram did so, and kept birds of prey from the carcasses all day. At nightfall, he fell into a deep sleep, during which God told him that his descendants would be servants in a land that was not their own for 400 years. However, after that stretch of time, God promised that he would judge their afflicters as well.

chapter 3

★THEMES adam & eve good & evil The Fall Sin's Consequences Paradise Lost: God's Judgment God Pronounces Judgment Adam And Eve Are Sent Out Of The Garden ★SUMMARY The Serpent Tricks Eve Genesis 3:1 says that the serpent was the most cunning among all the animals that God had created. It knew that the Lord had commanded Adam to eat fruit from all of the trees in the garden except for the tree of knowledge of good and evil. So, the serpent decided to tempt Adam's wife. The woman claimed that God had forbidden her from eating of the tree lest she be killed. The serpent, however, countered her belief and told her that the fruit would not kill her, but give her knowledge equal to that of God. The woman ate the fruit and, afterwards, convinced Adam to do so as well. Man Hides from God Immediately after Adam had eaten the forbidden fruit, they noticed that they were naked and sewed leaves together to cover their bodies. Later, when they heard God walking in the garden, they hid themselves from Him in the bushes. When God called to them, asking where they were, Adam replied that they were hiding because of their nudity. When He asked how they came to know they were nude, they told the Lord of how the woman had been tricked by the serpent, and Adam by the woman. Consequences Because of its deceit, the Lord cursed the snake and told it that He would create enmity between it and the woman. He said that man would crush the serpent's head as the serpent would strike man's heel. God told the woman that she would suffer through painful child birth and that her husband would rule over her. Adam was told that he would labor to survive all the days of his life. Finally, God told them that because they came from dust, they would return to dust after death. Aftermath Adam named the woman Eve, because she was the mother of all mankind. The Lord knew that man was now able to differentiate between good and evil and therefore decided to banish them from Eden. He placed a flaming sword at the entrance in order to prevent man from reentering the Garden