07 - Torah Portion: וַיֵּצֵאVayetzé ("He Went Out")
Portion Summary
This seventhportion of the Book of Genesis, Vayetze,meaning "Hewent out,"covers (Genesis 28:10–32:3). It begins with Jacob leaving Beershebaand traveling toward Haran. On his journey, he dreams of a ladderreaching into heaven, with malakhim ascending and descending upon it,and YHVH confirming His covenant promises to Jacob.
The portion continueswith Jacob's arrival in Haran, where he meets Rachel, falls in lovewith her, and agrees to serve Laban seven years for her hand. Labandeceives Jacob by giving him Leah instead, and Jacob agrees to serveanother seven years for Rachel. The narrative includes the births ofJacob's twelve sons (through Leah, Rachel, and their handmaidensBilhah and Zilpah) and his daughter Dinah.
The story also recountsJacob's prosperity in flocks through YHVH's blessing despiteLaban's schemes, his growing family, and finally his decision toleave Laban's household. On his departure, Jacob is pursued byLaban, but YHVH intervenes, warning Laban in a dream. They make acovenant of peace before parting ways.
This portionhighlights dreamsand visions, divine covenant, endurance under deception,multiplication of YHVH's blessing, and encounters with malakhim.
Opening Prayer
Blessed are You, AdonaiYHVH our Father, Sovereign of Creation, who has given us Your Torahof truth, implanting within us eternal life through Y'shua ourMessiah. Blessed are You, YHVH Eloheinu, King of Creation.
Torah (Books of Moses)
(Genesis 28:10–32:3)
Jacob's dream at Bethel (28:10–22) – the ladder to heaven and YHVH's covenant promises.
Jacob meets Rachel at the well (29:1–14).
Marriage to Leah and Rachel; births of sons and Dinah (29:15–30:24).
Jacob's prosperity through the flocks (30:25–43).
Jacob flees from Laban; covenant made at Mizpah (31:1–55).
Malakhim meet Jacob on his return journey (32:1–3).
Key Verses:
(Genesis 28:12–15) – The dream of the ladder and YHVH's covenant promises.
(Genesis 29:31) – YHVH sees Leah's affliction and opens her womb.
(Genesis 30:27) – YHVH blesses Jacob, even Laban admits it.
(Genesis 31:24) – YHVH warns Laban not to harm Jacob.
Nevi'im (Prophets)
(Hosea 12:12–14) – Jacob fled to the field of Aram; YHVH reminds Israel of Jacob's service and His redeeming power.
(Isaiah 41:8–14) – Jacob as YHVH's chosen servant, upheld by His strength.
Ketuvim (Writings)
(Psalm 91:11) – Malakhim given charge to guard His people (linked to Jacob's vision).
(Psalm 121:3–8) – YHVH protects Jacob's journey.
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TORAH STUDIES: LINKING SCRIPTURES
Spiritual"Introduction to Torah" is a comprehensive study guide designed to facilitate a deeper understanding of the Scriptures, particularly the Torah, within the span of a year. What sets it apart is its emphasis on reading the Torah literally, along with...
