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Course Duration: Seven weekly lessons

Pre-course Information Packet

1. Methods of Commentary on Torah Texts
2. Biographical Sketches of Ramban and Sforno
3. Historical Timeline of Relevant Events and People
4. Outline of Torah texts for the course

Lesson 1: Jacob & Esau: Origins of a Conflict

Torah Text: Genesis chapter 25:19-34 Torah Text: Genesis chapter 25:19-34 Torah Text: Genesis chapter 25:19-34

1. Isaac & Rebecca's Prayers
   • Issue: Why G-d wants man to pray
2. The Origins of the Rivalry between Jacob & Esau
   • Issue: Understanding two opposing world-views

Lesson 2: Isaac's Blessings

Torah Text: Genesis chapter 27 & 28:1-9 Torah Text: Genesis chapter 27 & 28:1-9 Torah Text: Genesis chapter 27 & 28:1-9

1. Isaac's Blessings:  Ramban's Approach
   • Issue: Confirming G-d's choice
2. Isaac's Blessings:  Sforno's Approach
   • Issue: An eternal partnership

Lesson 3: Jacob's Dream

Torah Text: Genesis chapter 28:9-22

1. Jacob's Vow to G-d
   • Issue: A successful connection to G-d
2. G-d's Blessing of Earth
   • Issue: Qualities of Jewish nationhood

Lesson 4: Jacob & Laban

Torah Text: Genesis chapters 29-32:1-3

1. Jacob Works for Laban
   • Issue: A Jewish work ethic
2. Jacob’s Family
   • Issue: Establishing the future of the Jewish People

Lesson 5: Jacob & Esau (Part 1)

Torah Text: Genesis chapters 32

1. Jacob Prepares to Meet Esau
   • Issue: Lessons for survival in Jewish history

Lesson 6: Jacob & Esau (Part 2)

Torah Text: Genesis chapters 32:23-33 & 33

1. The Battle With the Angel
   • Issue: Jewish Alone-ness
2. Jacob and Esau’s Wealth
   • Issue: Satisfaction with material success

Lesson 7: Dinah's Abduction

Torah Text: Genesis chapters 34