Jacob's dream of a ladder to heaven is found in Genesis 28:10-22. This passage narrates a significant event in the life of Jacob, one of the patriarchs of the Israelites. The dream occurs when Jacob is fleeing from his brother Esau, to whom he has caused great distress by deceitfully securing both Esau's birthright and his father Isaac's blessing. The key points of this narrative are as follows:

1. Jacob's Journey Jacob leaves Beersheba and heads toward Haran. On his journey, as the sun sets, he decides to stop for the night. He chooses a place to rest, using stones for his pillows, and lies down to sleep.
2. The Dream In his dream, Jacob sees a ladder that is set up on the earth, with its top reaching to heaven. Angels of God are ascending and descending on it. This vision symbolizes a connection between God in heaven and the earthly realm.
3. God's Presence Above the ladder stands the Lord, who speaks directly to Jacob. God reiterates the covenant He made with Abraham and Isaac, now extending it to Jacob. God promises Jacob the land on which he lies, affirming that his descendants will be as the dust of the earth, spreading in all directions. God also assures Jacob of His presence, guidance, protection, and the surety of returning him to this land.
4. Jacob's Response When Jacob awakens from his dream, he is filled with awe and fear, recognizing the place as the house of God and the gate of heaven. He takes the stone he had used for his pillow, sets it up as a pillar, and anoints it with oil, dedicating it to God. He names the place Bethel, meaning "house of God," although it was previously called Luz.
5. Jacob's Vow Jacob then makes a vow to God, stating that if God remains with him, keeps him safe on his journey, provides him with food and clothing, and ensures his return to his father's house in peace, then the Lord will be his God. He also pledges that the stone he has set up as a pillar will be God's house, and he commits to giving a tenth of all he receives back to God.

This dream and the ensuing covenant mark a pivotal moment in Jacob's life, signifying God's continuous presence and the unfolding of His plan for the nation of Israel. Jacob's recognition of God's presence in that place and his response of worship and commitment reflect the profound impact of the divine encounter.