Fathers- in- law in Tanach

Abstract

Lavan and Yisro are individuals in Tanach who are primarily known as fathers- in- law to two righteous men, Yaakov and Moshe. This paper will explore the character traits of Lavan and Yisro and how these traits impacted their behavior in the father-in -law role. Through this analysis, one will see how the contrasting natures and behaviors of these two fathers-in-law led to vastly different outcomes with their illustrious sons -in -law. In the case of Lavan and Yaakov the outcome was estrangement. With Yisro and Moshe it was engagement.