What role does respect play in the interactions described in Genesis 33:7? Setting the Scene Jacob, after years away from home, finally steps back onto Edomite soil to face Esau. Knowing their last encounter ended with a death threat, Jacob carefully orders his family into groups and goes ahead to meet his brother. Genesis 33:7 zooms in on how Leah, Rachel, and the children approach Esau: “Leah also approached with her children and bowed down. Then Rachel and Joseph came and bowed down.” (Berean Standard Bible) Seeing Respect in Action Respect saturates every movement in this verse. Notice the details: • Bowing is repeated three times—Leah bows, her children bow, then Rachel and Joseph bow. • Each person bows independently, not merely riding on Jacob’s earlier gestures. • The posture is low, not casual; it’s the classic Near-Eastern sign of deference before a superior or an elder. Why the Bows Matter 1. Recognition of Authority – By literally lowering themselves, Jacob’s wives and children acknowledge Esau’s position as the firstborn. 2. A Bridge over Past Hurt – Years earlier, Jacob had deceived Esau. Bowing communicates, “We value you; we wronged you, and we know it.” Respect becomes the first brick in rebuilding their relationship. 3. Family Unity – The wives and children mirror Jacob’s own seven bows in verse 3. Respect flows from the head of the family down to every member, showing that reconciliation isn’t just Jacob’s project; it’s everybody’s. 4. Submission to God’s Providence – They are fulfilling the prophecy spoken to Rebekah that “the older will serve the younger,” yet they choose to honor Esau anyway. Respect here is obedience to God’s command to live peaceably, even with those once considered enemies. Lessons for Today • Respect is proactive. Jacob’s family doesn’t wait for Esau to demand honor; they offer it freely. • Respect is visible. Words matter, but body language often speaks louder. A bowed head, a listening ear, or a thoughtful pause can disarm tension. • Respect paves the road for reconciliation. Genuine honor removes barriers pride erects. • Respect honors God first. When we esteem others, we echo the Creator who values every image-bearer. Living It Out – Approach strained relationships with tangible gestures of honor—an apology, a thoughtful gift, a willingness to yield. – Teach respect by modeling it; children in Genesis 33:7 learned to bow because they watched Jacob. – Remember that humility before people is an act of humility before God. Every respectful interaction whispers, “I trust Your way, Lord, more than my pride.” |
    |