We are still dealing with stories which are told in the Bible, but this week from the books of Joshua, Judges, Samuel and Kings. These stories are qualitatively different from the Genesis narrative. Moreover, archeological finds testify to the growth and prosperity of the city during the First Temple period and even verify some of the names of relatively minor characters in the Biblical story. As opposed to the book of Genesis, which tells of individuals, the later books are about the growth of the Jewish nation. In many ways, the Bible's description of how this nation grew parallels the stages of an individual's journey towards personal maturity.
Genesis portrays a small family unit which embodies the still embryonic qualities of the nation.
The stories are symbolic. The traits of the sons of Jacob represent the roles which are later to be played by the tribes. Abraham's journeys through the land of Israel, and in particular his presence on Mount Moriah, consecrate the ground and impart it with national symbolism. In turn, settling in the city of Jerusalem is the symbol of Israel achieving national maturity. Joshua On entry into the Land of Israel, the People of Israel begin the process of weaning.