Genesis 35:15

Modern

Jacob called the place where God had spoken with him Bethel.

Traditional

And Jacob called the name of the place where God spake with him, Beth–el.

Literal

And Jacob called the name of the place where God had spoken with him Bethel.

Latin

…vocansque nomen loci illius Bethel.

Hebrew

English

Jacob called the place where God had spoken with him Bethel.

In fulfilling his vow (28:20–22), Jacob’s actions were almost identical to his actions in the earlier experience at Bethel (compare 28:16–19).

At Bethel, God confirmed the promise he made earlier. He reminded Jacob that his name was now Israel, proving that he had received the blessing.

This chapter discusses God's promises, Jacob's vow, and how Jacob's sons continue the covenant. Deborah, Rachel, and Isaac died. This marked the end of an era and the story of Isaac's family (25:19–35:29).
They removed idols (35:1–4) and established pure worship (35:6–7). During this time, they needed to renew their faith so Jacob's sons could continue the covenant.

Theme notes and profiles

Genesis 28:19
…and he called that place Bethel, though previously the city had been named Luz.

Israel: Patriarch, son of Isaac, father of twelve tribes

Bethel: Important city in Israel, associated with Abraham and Jacob