Genesis 35:2

strange gods The images of the gods of foreigners, i.e. of another family, tribe, or nation. Rachel had carried away, from Haran, the household gods of her father's family. Cf. Genesis 31:19; Genesis 31:30; Genesis 31:32-35. The presence of the gods of the foreigner was displeasing in the sight of the God of Israel. Cf. Joshua 24:23, "Now therefore put away the strange gods which are among you, and incline your heart unto the Lord, the God of Israel"; words which were also spoken at Shechem.

purify yourselves Cf. Exodus 19:10; Leviticus 15:5. Purification was effected by ceremonial washings.