Genesis 32

Genesis 32 recounts a pivotal moment in Jacob’s life as he prepares to reunite with his estranged brother Esau after 20 years.

The chapter begins with Jacob continuing his journey home after leaving his father-in-law Laban. Angels of God meet him on the way, and Jacob calls the place “Mahanaim,” meaning “two camps.”

As he approaches his homeland, Jacob sends messengers ahead to Esau, humbly announcing his return and seeking favor. The messengers return with alarming news: Esau is coming to meet Jacob — with 400 men. Terrified of his brother’s potential revenge for stealing his birthright and blessing, Jacob divides his household into two groups, hoping at least one might escape if Esau attacks.

Jacob then prays earnestly to God, acknowledging his unworthiness of God’s faithfulness (“mercies” and “truth”) and asking for deliverance from Esau. He reminds God of the promise to make his descendants as numerous as the sand.

As a strategic gesture, Jacob sends waves of generous gifts ahead to Esau — goats, sheep, camels, cattle, and donkeys — hoping to appease his brother.

That night, after sending his wives, children, and possessions across the Jabbok River, Jacob remains alone. A mysterious man wrestles with him until daybreak. When the man cannot overpower Jacob, he touches Jacob’s hip socket, wrenching it. Despite his injury, Jacob refuses to let go until the man blesses him. The man renames Jacob as “Israel,” meaning “he who struggles with God,” acknowledging that Jacob has wrestled with God and with humans and has prevailed.

Jacob names the place “Penuel” or “Peniel” (meaning ”facing God”), saying, “I have seen God face to face, yet my life has been preserved.” As the sun rises, Jacob limps away because of his injured hip.