Symbolism of the Patriarch: Jacob and the Nation of Israel

The Symbolism of Israel

“Is it time for Israel, Father?

Abraham rests in peace divine.

He lives with Us in Glory land;

Triumphant flows his family-line.”

“Isaac gains him grandsons, two;

Twins to father nations, next.

Esau, firstborn, surrenders birthright

When by fainting hunger’s vexed.

Younger Jacob claims the Right –

At Isaac’s death, the blessing takes.

And with it My Covenant transfers

From Esau, who’s heritage breaks.

In fear of Esau, Jacob flees;

Comes to rest on pillow-stone.

And in the deep sleep I bestow

A Ladder-vision shone!

Upon this Ladder, angels tread;

At the top – behold My throne!

When he rises, Jacob worships;

Knows, though one, he’s not alone.

“Bethel: House Of God!” he says;

Names the place he now respects.

And with his stone of vision – sleep

A memorial – pillar sweet erects.”

“Jacob, I rename thee now!

Through thee comes My Nation, dear.

Though thou were the younger son,

Thou the honored Birthright revere!

So, be Israel! Delight in the name –

Contendeth with Me for a blessing?

Lo, on one side become lame,

But I bless; by faith thou wert pressing.”

“My Son, Jacob loveth Me true,

But Rachael he loveth the greater.

Like Sera, she cannot bear children;

Like Abram, will they trust their Creator?

See how I’ve tested each Patriarch!

I promise a continuous line –

And yet I challenge the covenant

To reveal if they verily art Mine.

Each chosen wife has suffered dear;

Barren, they art plagued.

But if they trust and come to Me

My answer is not vague –

I ANSWER! Hope they now My help?

In strong belief do they wade?

No! They seek the answer by flesh,

But by Promise it was made.

Jacob’s given sons – ten in all;

With three other women has laid.

But none has bitter Rachael borne,

Though she bore through servant Bilhah.

And her mothering sister Leah gave

Him children through servant Zilpah.

Why will they seek no blessing?

Why My timing do they doubt?

I promised offspring of thousands,

But striving, they bring this about.

I will continue to visit Leah,

Wife less loved though children borne.

She will yet bear Jacob more sons;

Rachael feels the stares of scorn.

And so she raises up her voice,

And begs Me lend Mine ear.

Yea, now I purpose to fulfill

My Promise – have no more fear.