Of the Biblical Patriarchs, Jacob is the most mysterious. Possessing neither the faith nor virtues of Abraham, Jacob is chosen to be the bearer of Divine blessing and the father of Israel. His character emerges through a series of deceptions, intrigues and conflicts which cast serious doubt on the wisdom and appropriateness of God using Jacob as his prophet. A casual reading of the text would indicate that God is rather wary of being too …showed first 75 words of 1293 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1293 total…a larger plan of God which will be revealed in the life and history of the people of Israel. This and more, for Abraham's departure from Harran, Jacob's departure from Beersheba, and Israel's departure from Egypt, are all part of God's overall plan for humankind. The story of Jacob teaches us the most valuable lesson that a reconciliation of man's flaws can be achieved and an imperfect man and God can travel together through history.