The subject, younger of twin sons, was born grasping his brother Esau's heel. He acquired the birthright and, at his mother's counsel, the blessing intended for the elder, and fled the resulting enmity.

At Bethel the subject saw a ladder set between earth and heaven with angels ascending and descending, and received the covenant promise given to Abraham and Isaac. He vowed to serve the LORD.

In Paddan-Aram the subject served Laban for two wives, Leah and Rachel, and for his flocks, enduring repeated deceit. He fathered eleven sons and a daughter there, and prospered.

Returning to Canaan, the subject wrestled through the night with a divine adversary at Peniel and would not let go without a blessing. His name was changed to Israel, and he went out limping from the hip.

The subject was reconciled to Esau, mourned the presumed loss of his son Joseph, and in old age went down to Egypt during famine. He blessed his sons and Pharaoh, and was carried back to Canaan for burial.