The lives of the three patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in Genesis can be seen as epitomizing three primary emotions, which in turn correspond to the first three psychosexual stages described by S. Freud and the first three stages of psychosocial development elucidated by Erickson. These three emotions are described in the mystical writings of the Zohar as Chesed (lovingkindness), Geuvra (personal strength), and Tiferes (integration). Parallels of these emotions with the first three stages of development described by Freud and Erikson are discussed. Case vignettes are presented in which patients’ struggles can be seen as reflecting these issues. Implications for therapeutic technique are also be discussed.