Biblical Context:
The account of Jacob building an altar at Bethel is found in Genesis 35:1-15. This event occurs after Jacob's return from Paddan-aram, where he had fled to escape his brother Esau's wrath. During his time away, Jacob had married Leah and Rachel, the daughters of Laban, and had become prosperous. The narrative of Jacob's journey back to Canaan is marked by divine encounters and covenantal reaffirmations.

Divine Command:
In Genesis 35:1, God instructs Jacob, "Arise, go up to Bethel and settle there. Build an altar there to the God who appeared to you when you fled from your brother Esau." This command serves as a reminder of Jacob's earlier encounter with God at Bethel, where he had a vision of a ladder reaching to heaven and received God's promises (Genesis 28:10-22).

Purification and Preparation:
Before ascending to Bethel, Jacob instructs his household to purify themselves, change their garments, and rid themselves of foreign gods (Genesis 35:2-4). This act of purification signifies a renewal of commitment to the God of Israel and a rejection of idolatry. Jacob's leadership in this spiritual preparation underscores the importance of holiness and devotion in approaching God.

Journey to Bethel:
As Jacob and his family journey to Bethel, a "terror from God" falls upon the surrounding cities, preventing them from pursuing Jacob's family (Genesis 35:5). This divine protection highlights God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and His sovereign power over the nations.

Building the Altar:
Upon arrival at Bethel, Jacob builds an altar and names the place El-Bethel, meaning "God of Bethel" (Genesis 35:7). This act of worship and dedication commemorates God's revelation to Jacob and acknowledges His continued presence and guidance. The altar serves as a tangible expression of Jacob's gratitude and commitment to the God who has been with him throughout his journey.

Reaffirmation of the Covenant:
In Genesis 35:9-12, God appears to Jacob again, blessing him and reaffirming the covenant made with Abraham and Isaac. God changes Jacob's name to Israel, signifying his role as the father of a great nation. The promises of land, descendants, and blessing are reiterated, emphasizing the continuity of God's redemptive plan through Jacob's lineage.

Significance of Bethel:
Bethel holds significant theological and historical importance in the biblical narrative. It is a place of divine encounter, covenantal promise, and worship. Jacob's actions at Bethel reflect a deepening relationship with God and a commitment to live in accordance with His will. The altar at Bethel stands as a testament to God's faithfulness and the transformative power of His presence in the lives of His people.

Legacy:
Jacob's building of the altar at Bethel is a pivotal moment in the patriarchal narrative, symbolizing a return to the foundational promises of God. It serves as a reminder of the importance of worship, obedience, and the rejection of idolatry in the life of faith. The events at Bethel foreshadow the establishment of Israel as a nation set apart for God's purposes, rooted in the covenantal relationship initiated by God with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.