The Voice of Jacob, the Hands of Esau

Jewish tradition calls Jacob the greatest of the forefathers. So how could he stand before his blind father and say, “I am Esau, your firstborn”? Rabbi Elie Mischel opens this week’s Torah portion, verse by verse.

Ready to watch the whole thing? Follow Jacob all the way to the ladder and home.

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“Rabbi Mischel did a great job explaining the struggles and blessings of Jacob’s life and how they illuminate the realities we also face in our lives. This story is also an encouragement to seek and trust God in everything.”

Maria T.

“I enjoyed the study of Jacob and applying it to my walk with God. I am very thankful for this study.”

Judith F.

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Continue Jacob’s story in Bible Plus

Rabbi Mischel follows Jacob from his father’s tent to his dream of the ladder and his return home, and asks what made him the greatest of the forefathers.

Why members join Bible Plus

See familiar stories in a new way

Learn how Jewish tradition has read these stories for thousands of years.

From Genesis to the Prophets

Study Abraham and Sarah, King David, Ruth, Esther, Isaiah and the Psalms, plus courses on prayer, the biblical festivals and more.

Rabbis and scholars you’ll get to know

Rabbi Elie Mischel, Mrs. Shira Schechter, Rabbi Tuly Weisz and others teach from Israel and explain what the Hebrew words really say.

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Most lessons are about 15 minutes. Watch on your phone, tablet or computer, and come back to them anytime.