patriarchs

Definition:

The term "patriarchs" in the OT refers to the founding fathers of the Jewish people, particularly Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

It also can refer to the twelve sons of Jacob who became the 12 patriarchs of the 12 tribes of Israel.
The term "patriarch" has a similar meaning to "forefather," but more specifically refers to the most well-known male ancestral leaders of a people group.