Genesis 35:2

So Jacob told his household and all who were with him, "Get rid of the foreign gods that are among you. Purify yourselves and change your garments.

Study Bible

So Jacob told his household
The phrase "Jacob told his household" indicates a patriarchal leadership structure, where Jacob, as the head of the family, exercises authority and spiritual responsibility. In Hebrew, "household" (בֵּיתוֹ, "beyto") encompasses not just immediate family but all those under his care, including servants. This reflects the communal nature of ancient Near Eastern families, where the head's faith and decisions impacted the entire group. Jacob's directive underscores the importance of spiritual leadership within the family unit, a principle that resonates with the biblical call for fathers to lead their families in the ways of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4).

and all who were with him
This phrase extends the command beyond Jacob's immediate family to include all those associated with him, such as servants and possibly other travelers. It highlights the inclusivity of God's covenant community, where all members, regardless of status, are called to holiness. The Hebrew word for "with" (אִתּוֹ, "itto") suggests a close association or fellowship, emphasizing that those who journey with God's people are also called to share in their spiritual commitments.

Get rid of the foreign gods
The command to "get rid of the foreign gods" is a call to renounce idolatry, a recurring theme in the Old Testament. The Hebrew word for "foreign" (נֵכָר, "nekar") implies something alien or strange, contrasting with the worship of Yahweh, the one true God. This reflects the historical context of the patriarchs, who lived among polytheistic cultures. Jacob's command is a decisive step towards spiritual purity, echoing the first commandment (Exodus 20:3) and foreshadowing Israel's ongoing struggle against idolatry.

that are among you
The phrase "that are among you" suggests that these idols were not just external influences but had infiltrated the community. The Hebrew word "among" (בְּתוֹכְכֶם, "betokhem") indicates something within or in the midst, highlighting the insidious nature of idolatry. This serves as a warning to believers about the subtle ways in which ungodly influences can permeate their lives, calling for vigilance and discernment in maintaining spiritual integrity.

Purify yourselves
The call to "purify yourselves" involves a ritual cleansing, a common practice in ancient Israelite religion symbolizing inner spiritual renewal. The Hebrew root טָהֵר ("taher") means to be clean or pure, both physically and morally. This purification process signifies repentance and a return to covenant faithfulness, preparing the people to encounter God. It underscores the biblical principle that holiness is essential for fellowship with God (Hebrews 12:14).

and change your garments
Changing garments symbolizes a transformation or new beginning. In the ancient Near East, clothing often represented one's status or condition. The Hebrew word for "garments" (שִׂמְלֹתֵיכֶם, "simlotekhem") can also imply a change in identity or purpose. This act of changing clothes signifies a break from the past and a readiness to embrace a new, consecrated life. It reflects the New Testament concept of putting off the old self and putting on the new (Ephesians 4:22-24), illustrating the transformative power of God's call to holiness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob
The patriarch of the Israelite tribes, Jacob is the central figure in this passage. He is leading his family back to Bethel, a place of significant spiritual encounter with God.

2. Jacob's Household
This includes his wives, children, and servants. They are instructed by Jacob to rid themselves of foreign gods and purify themselves.

3. Foreign Gods
These are idols or deities worshiped by people outside of the covenant community. Jacob's command to remove them signifies a return to exclusive worship of Yahweh.

4. Purification
A ritual act of cleansing, often involving washing and changing clothes, symbolizing a spiritual renewal and dedication to God.

5. Bethel
A significant location in Jacob's life where he previously encountered God. It represents a place of divine promise and covenant.

Teaching Points

Call to Holiness
Just as Jacob instructed his household to purify themselves, believers today are called to live holy lives, setting aside anything that competes with their devotion to God.

Exclusive Worship
The removal of foreign gods underscores the importance of worshiping God alone. Believers must examine their lives for modern-day idols that may distract from their relationship with God.

Spiritual Renewal
Changing garments symbolizes a fresh start and a renewed commitment to God. Christians are encouraged to regularly seek spiritual renewal through repentance and dedication.

Leadership in Faith
Jacob's role as a spiritual leader in his family highlights the responsibility of leading others in faith and setting an example of devotion to God.

Returning to God
Bethel represents a return to a place of spiritual significance. Believers are reminded to return to their spiritual roots and remember God's faithfulness in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some "foreign gods" or idols in your life that may be hindering your relationship with God, and how can you remove them?

2. How does the concept of purification in Genesis 35:2 relate to the New Testament teachings on holiness and sanctification?

3. In what ways can you lead your family or community in a deeper commitment to God, similar to Jacob's leadership?

4. Reflect on a "Bethel" moment in your life where you encountered God in a significant way. How can you return to that place of spiritual renewal?

5. How do the themes of exclusive worship and covenant faithfulness in Genesis 35:2 connect with the broader biblical account of God's relationship with His people?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-4
The commandment against idolatry connects with Jacob's instruction to remove foreign gods, emphasizing the exclusive worship of Yahweh.

Joshua 24:14-15
Joshua's call to the Israelites to serve the Lord and put away foreign gods echoes Jacob's directive, highlighting a recurring theme of covenant faithfulness.

2 Corinthians 6:16-18
Paul's teaching on being separate from idols and purifying oneself as God's temple aligns with the call to holiness seen in Jacob's command.