Patriarchal Period

The Patriarchal Period in Ancient Hebrew history refers to the time when the foundational figures of Judaism, known as the patriarchs, lived. This era includes key figures such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, along with the matriarchs, like Sarah and Rebecca. It is traditionally viewed as occurring roughly between 2000 and 1700 BCE. The narratives of this period, primarily found in the Book of Genesis, focus on themes of covenant, faith, and the establishment of the Israelites as a distinct people chosen by God. It marks the beginnings of Jewish identity and foundational religious beliefs.