Jacob (1)
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Jacob (1) in the Bible?
The name Jacob derives from the Hebrew root 'aqab', meaning 'to follow' or 'to supplant', and functions as a theophoric name implying 'May God protect' or 'God sustains'.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the etymology of Jacob clarifies the narrative tension in Genesis regarding birthrights and divine election, helping readers grasp the theological themes of substitution and covenant fulfillment central to the patriarchal accounts.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Jacob (1) reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Jacob (1) in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Jacob (1) clarify?
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Jacob (1)." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/jacob-1/