Jacob prepares for the worst as he anticipates having to confront his brother Esau upon his return home. He divides his household into two groups so that if Esau and his troops set upon one, the other might escape. He also sends a succession of valuable gifts to Esau in the hope of appeasing him.

The night before their “reunion” Jacob wrestles with a man (actually an angel) and defeats him. This stranger blesses him with a new name, Israel, the meaning of which is “he who prevails with God”.

Jacob’s fears regarding his brother turn out to be unfounded. Esau embraces him with affection and offers to escort Jacob’s family. Jacob declines the offer; Esau returns to Seir, and Jacob eventually settles in Shechem, a town named by its chieftain, Hamor, in honor of his son.

Jacob’s only daughter, Dinah is seduced by Shechem. The only circumstance under which Dinah’s brothers will allow them to marry is if all the Shechemite men undergo circumcision. Surprisingly, they agree. While they are recuperating, Simeon and Levi, Dinah’s brothers, slay them all to avenge their sister’s dishonor.

Jacob departs Shechem, journeying to Beth El, the site of his vision of the heavenly staircase. God’s promise to him is reiterated and his name Israel is re-confirmed. Rachel dies near the city of Bethlehem while giving birth to Benjamin. Jacob reunites with his father, Isaac. Isaac dies at the age of 180, and is buried by his two sons in the Cave of Machpelah.

The sidra ends with a genealogical listing of the descendants of Esau.