Genesis Chapter 35 — Returning to Bethel and Israel's Legacy
Jacob returns to Bethel to build an altar to God, where he receives a renewed blessing and the name Israel. The chapter also records the birth of Benjamin and the deaths of Rachel and Isaac.
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Notable Verses
Genesis 35:10
“God said to him, “Your name is Jacob. Your name shall not be Jacob any more, but your name will be Israel.” He named him Israel.”
This verse marks the formal confirmation of Jacob's new name and identity by God at Bethel.
Genesis 35:11
“God said to him, “I am God Almighty. Be fruitful and multiply. A nation and a company of nations will be from you, and kings will come out of your body.””
This restates the Abrahamic covenant, emphasizing the future royal and national destiny of Jacob's descendants.
Chapter Summary
In Genesis 35, God commands Jacob to return to Bethel and build an altar. Before departing, Jacob instructs his household to remove all foreign gods and purify themselves. Upon arriving at Bethel, God appears to Jacob, confirming his new name, Israel, and reiterating the covenant promise of land and numerous descendants. The narrative then shifts to personal family events: Deborah, Rebekah's nurse, passes away, followed by the tragic death of Rachel while giving birth to Jacob's twelfth son, Benjamin. During their travels, Reuben commits a serious offense against his father's household. The chapter provides a formal list of Jacob's twelve sons, who would become the heads of the tribes of Israel. Finally, Jacob reunites with his father Isaac in Hebron. Isaac dies at the age of 180 and is buried by his sons, Jacob and Esau, marking the end of an era for the patriarchs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before returning to Bethel to worship God, Jacob required his household to undergo a spiritual purification. This involved removing idols collected from their time in Haran or the recent events in Shechem to ensure they were fully devoted to the God of the covenant.
Rachel was buried on the way to Ephrath, which is also known as Bethlehem. Jacob marked her grave with a pillar to commemorate her life and her death during the birth of Benjamin.
The sons of Leah were Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun. Rachel’s sons were Joseph and Benjamin. The sons of the servants Bilhah and Zilpah were Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher.
Study Note
The name 'Allon Bacuth' given to the burial place of Deborah literally translates to 'Oak of Weeping,' reflecting the household's mourning.
Related Chapters
Jacob's First Dream at Bethel
This chapter records Jacob's first encounter with God at Bethel when he was fleeing from Esau.
Jacob Named Israel
This earlier chapter describes the initial instance where Jacob's name was changed during his wrestling match with God.
Rachel's Weeping in Bethlehem
The New Testament references Rachel's burial place near Bethlehem in the context of the birth of Jesus.
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