Patriarch Jacob

Sunday of the Holy Fore-Fathers
Troparion (Tone 2)
Thou didst justify the Forefathers by faith, when of old through them Thou didst betroth Thyself to the Church of the nations. The Saints rejoice in the glorious fruit of their seed, even in her who bore Thee seedlessly. By their prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls.

Patriarch Jacob was chosen by God to be the patriarch of a great nation and a fore-father of the Messiah. The name Jacob translates into English as "James" and means "usurper", since Jacob was the younger of twins, but came out of the womb grasping the heal of his brother Esau, apparently trying to hold him back. God gave Jacob the name of promise: Israel. Israel means "he who wrestles with God." God gave him this name after he wrestled with God in the dream and would not let him go until He blessed him. New Testament believers are called Israel and inherit the blessings that were given to him. The blessings are not given based on human genealogy, but to those who by faith wrestle with God. "[W]ork out your own salvation with fear and trembling." -Phillipians 2:12b

This Icon is by the hand of Constantine Youssis and is at St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

Order # ymj-05

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