Questions for Preparation and Self Study
Questions for Preparation in WORD format

Shiur #1 - Yaakov's Name Change to Yisrael
Shiur #2 - What is Yaakov Doing in Shechem?

Yaakov's Name Change to Yisrael

Even though Yaakov's name change to Yisrael appears to be quite similar to Avram's name change to Avraham, in essence, they are very different. In contrast with Avraham, where a single letter ["heh"] is added to his existing name - Yisrael constitutes an entirely new name. Furthermore, 'Yisrael' serves as an alternative name for Yaakov, in contrast with Avraham which became a replacement! In this week's shiur, we explain how the nature of this name change may reflect a very critical stage in development of the "bechira" process in Sefer Breishit.

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What is Yaakov Doing in Shechem?

Upon his arrival in Eretz Canaan, why doesn't Yaakov go home immediately? After all, he has been away from his parents for over twenty years! Similarly, why doesn't Yaakov return immediately to Bet-El to fulfill his "neder?" After all, he had promised God that 'should he return home safely,' he would establish a Bet Elokim in Bet-El! Instead, Yaakov buys property and establishes his household in Shechem. He only moves on to Bet-El much later, after the incident with Dena, and only after God commands him to do so! What's going on? In this week's shiur we suggest a very simple answer, based on a rather intricate analysis.

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