The tribes that united to form the Israelite nation had separate and sometimes conflicting histories. The Biblical narrative of Jacob’s paternity should be taken as metaphoric because several tribes had long identifiable histories prior to unification. Subtle Biblical references refer to historic fact and precedent. The Book of Joshua 24 states the obvious, that the old-time fathers of Israel “served other gods.” Yes, they were pagans. Benjamin worshipped the moon. Southern tribes wore tassels similar to those commanded in Numbers 15 and worn by Orthodox men today. Other discoveries abound. This includes several chapters that also refer to parashot or portions of Genesis and Exodus.