The four major patriarchs of the Old Testament, prominent figures in the Book of Genesis, are:
1. Abraham: Considered the father of the Hebrew people, he made a covenant with God and is promised descendants as numerous as the stars.
2. Isaac: The son of Abraham and Sarah, he is a key figure in the continuation of the covenant.
3. Jacob: The son of Isaac and Rebekah, he is also known as Israel, and his twelve sons are the founders of the twelve tribes of Israel.
4. Joseph: The favorite son of Jacob, he was sold into slavery in Egypt but rose to power and saved his family from famine. Though not always listed, he is considered one of the patriarchs because of his significance in the story of Israel's origins and his role in bringing the Israelites to Egypt.