Chapter 19 - The Return to Canaan

Summary

This script recounts the biblical story of Jacob's return to Canaan, his peaceful dwelling in Shechem, and the tragic events that unfolded, including the dishonoring of his daughter and the violent retribution by his sons, Simeon and Levi. It also details Jacob's journey to Bethel, his struggle with idolatry within his household, and the sorrowful loss of his beloved wife Rachel. The narrative further explores the favoritism shown to Joseph, the jealousy it sparked among his brothers, and the dramatic turn of events leading to Joseph's betrayal and sale into slavery, culminating in Jacob's inconsolable grief.

Takeaways

• 🕊️ Jacob's peaceful return to Canaan fulfilled the prayer he made at Bethel for a safe return to his homeland.
• 🛤️ In Shechem, Jacob bought land and erected an altar, continuing the tradition started by Abraham over a hundred years prior.
• ⚔️ Violence erupted in Shechem due to the actions of Jacob's daughter and the subsequent murder committed by two of his sons, leading to the destruction of the city.
• 😔 Jacob expressed deep grief and horror at the violent acts of his sons, fearing retribution from the local inhabitants.
• 🙏 Jacob called for the removal of idolatry from his household before journeying to Bethel, showing his commitment to worship the one true God.
• 🏚️ The inhabitants of the land were fearful and did not retaliate against Jacob's family for the slaughter at Shechem.
• 📜 Jacob recounted his first visit to Bethel to his children, emphasizing God's mercy and presence throughout his life.
• 😢 The death of Rachel, Jacob's wife, brought immense sorrow to Jacob, highlighting the depth of their love.
• 🏺 Joseph, Jacob's son by Rachel, was favored by Jacob, which led to jealousy and resentment among his brothers.
• 👥 The brothers' hatred for Joseph was fueled by his dreams of ruling over them and their father's obvious partiality towards him.
• 🚶 Jacob sent Joseph to find his brothers who were away with their flocks, unaware of the malice they harbored against him.

Q & A

What significant event occurs when Jacob returns to the land of Canaan?

Jacob returns to Canaan in peace, settling in the city of Shechem, where he buys a parcel of ground and erects an altar to God, fulfilling the prayer he made at Bethel for a peaceful return to his homeland.

Why does the situation at Shechem for Jacob and his sons end in violence?

The situation at Shechem ends in violence due to the dishonoring of Jacob's daughter by the prince of Shechem, which leads to Simeon and Levi murdering the prince and his people as an act of revenge.

What is the significance of the well that Jacob digs at Shechem?

The well that Jacob digs at Shechem is significant as it is the same well where, centuries later, Jesus speaks to the woman about the water of life, symbolizing the spiritual connection between the Old and New Testaments.

How does Jacob react to the violent actions of his sons at Shechem?

Jacob is horrified by the actions of his sons, expressing grief and concern about the repercussions, fearing that the people of the land will gather against him and his household due to their violent deed.

What does Jacob command his household to do before going to Bethel?

Jacob commands his household to put away the strange gods among them, to cleanse themselves, change their garments, and prepare to go to Bethel where he intends to make an altar to God.

What is the significance of the pillar of stone that Jacob sets up at Bethel?

The pillar of stone at Bethel signifies the renewal of the covenant promise between Jacob and God, marking the place where God appeared to him and reaffirmed His promises.

Why does Jacob's family history become troubled after the events at Shechem?

Jacob's family history becomes troubled due to the presence of false gods, idolatry, and the violent actions of his sons, which lead to a division among the family and a tarnishing of their reputation among the inhabitants of the land.

What is the significance of Rachel's death during the journey to Hebron?

Rachel's death is significant as it brings a deep personal grief to Jacob, who mourns the loss of his beloved wife. It also marks a turning point in Jacob's life, symbolizing the end of an era and the beginning of a new phase of his journey.

How does the favoritism shown by Jacob towards Joseph affect the family dynamics?

Jacob's favoritism towards Joseph, especially evident through the gift of a special coat, incites jealousy and resentment among his other sons, leading to a strained family relationship and setting the stage for future conflict.

What is the significance of Joseph's dreams about his sheaf and the celestial bodies?

Joseph's dreams are significant as they foretell his future rise to power and prominence, where his brothers will bow down to him, reflecting the divine plan for his life and the fulfillment of God's promises to his ancestors.

What is the turning point in the story that leads to Joseph's separation from his family?

The turning point is when Joseph's brothers, driven by jealousy and hatred, decide to sell him into slavery to a group of Ishmaelites traveling to Egypt, instead of killing him as initially planned.