Topical Bible: Jacob: Dreads to Meet Esau; Sends Him Presents; Wrestles With an Angel

◄ Jacob: Dreads to Meet Esau; Sends Him Presents; Wrestles With an Angel ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Jacob, the son of Isaac and Rebekah, and the twin brother of Esau, is a central figure in the Genesis narrative. His life is marked by a series of divine encounters and personal transformations, particularly during his return to Canaan after years of living with his uncle Laban. This entry focuses on the events surrounding Jacob's fear of meeting Esau, his strategic preparations, and his profound encounter with the divine.

Dreads to Meet Esau

After years of estrangement, Jacob prepares to meet his brother Esau, whom he had deceived out of his birthright and blessing (Genesis 27). Jacob's fear is palpable as he anticipates Esau's reaction, knowing that Esau had once harbored intentions to kill him (Genesis 27:41). In Genesis 32:7, the Berean Standard Bible states, "In great fear and distress, Jacob divided the people with him into two camps, and the flocks and herds and camels as well." This division was a strategic move to preserve at least part of his family and possessions should Esau attack.

Sends Him Presents

In an effort to appease Esau and mitigate potential hostility, Jacob sends a series of gifts ahead of his meeting with Esau. These gifts are substantial, consisting of livestock and servants, intended to convey goodwill and seek favor. Genesis 32:13-15 details the offering: "He spent the night there, and from what he had brought with him, he selected a gift for his brother Esau: 200 female goats, 20 male goats, 200 ewes, 20 rams, 30 milk camels with their young, 40 cows, 10 bulls, 20 female donkeys, and 10 male donkeys." Jacob's actions reflect both his humility and his desire for reconciliation, as he instructs his servants to tell Esau, "They belong to your servant Jacob. They are a gift sent to my lord Esau. And behold, Jacob is behind us" (Genesis 32:18).

Wrestles With an Angel

On the night before his encounter with Esau, Jacob experiences a mysterious and transformative event. He finds himself alone, wrestling with a man until daybreak. This struggle is not merely physical but deeply spiritual. Genesis 32:24-26 recounts, "So Jacob was left all alone, and there a man wrestled with him until daybreak. When the man saw that he could not overpower Jacob, he struck the socket of Jacob’s hip and dislocated it as they wrestled. Then the man said, 'Let Me go, for it is daybreak.' But Jacob replied, 'I will not let You go unless You bless me.'"

This encounter is widely interpreted as a theophany, a direct encounter with God, or an angelic being representing God. Jacob's persistence in seeking a blessing signifies his recognition of the divine nature of his opponent. The man responds by changing Jacob's name to Israel, meaning "he struggles with God," signifying a new identity and destiny. Genesis 32:28 states, "Then the man said, 'Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with men, and you have prevailed.'"

Jacob's wrestling with the angel marks a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey, symbolizing his transformation from a man of deceit to one who earnestly seeks God's blessing and favor. This event prepares him for the reconciliation with Esau and the continuation of the covenant promises given to Abraham and Isaac.