Before Jacob even moves, there's a crucial command given to his entire household. What does this purification signify?
God's instruction to Jacob is not just about returning to Bethel, but also about preparing himself and his household for worship. This involves a significant act of purification.
Cleansing from Idolatry
The commentaries reveal that Jacob's household had become corrupted by idols, likely through Rachel's influence and Jacob's own complicity through 'connivance.' God's command is clear: 'Arise, go up to Bethel... and make there an altar.' This implies that the worship at Bethel must be pure, untainted by foreign gods.
Removing Hindrances to Worship
Jacob’s prompt obedience, as described in the following verses (Genesis 35:2-4), shows him commanding his family to put away their foreign gods and be clean. This act of changing garments and purifying themselves demonstrates that genuine worship requires setting aside anything that distracts from or dishonors the one true God. It's a powerful reminder that our hearts and homes need to be cleansed before we can truly offer acceptable worship.
