Genesis Bible Study

Genesis Bible Study – Chapter 35

By Carri Pratt

“Jacob had twelve sons” Genesis 35:22b

This chapter brings much sorrow to Jacob. His father, Isaac, dies and his favorite wife, Rachel, dies in child birth. It is heart breaking when those we love depart this earth. 

The very bright spot of this moment in his life, is that he sees what God has given him, his children. Twelve of his children were sons. “Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord, children a reward.” Psalm 127:3-5

It is not a coincidence that there were twelve sons of Jacob, twelve apostles and twelve gates to Jerusalem. “The meaning of 12, which is considered a perfect number, is that it symbolizes God’s power and authority, as well as serving as a perfect governmental foundation.” www.Biblestudy.org 

The number 12 is also used 22 times in the book of Revelation; six times in chapter 21:12-14 alone:

“The city had a massive high wall, with 12 gates. Twelve angels were at the gates; the names of the 12 tribes of Israel’s sons were inscribed on the gates. ¹³ There were three gates on the east, three gates on the north, three gates on the south, and three gates on the west. ¹⁴ The city wall had 12 foundations, and the 12 names of the Lamb’s 12 apostles were on the foundations.” Revelation 21:12-14

Challenge: It is often times easy to skip over the details listed in the Bible, especially if we think it has no direct bearing on our personal lives. As you read Genesis, keep in mind that the events described effect the entirety of history, including the world we live in today.