Genesis 32

1 angels. In visible appearance, in great numbers. Possibly referred to in Psa. xxxiv. 7. As at his departure from Canaan, so now at his return, God gives him assurance and evidence of Divine watchfulness.

2. Mahanam.** That is, “two camps” or “hosts”; probably his own company and the host of angels. General Gordon in one of his messages from Khartoum wrote, “The hosts are with us: Mahanam.”

9. O God.** This prayer contains four pleas, derived from (1) God’s Covenant, pledged also by His Name Jahveh (xxviii. 13); (2) His command to Jacob to return to Canaan (xxxi. 3, 13); (3) His past mercies (cp. xxiv. 27); (4) His promises (xxviii. 13-15).

10 over this Jordan. From the highland of Gilead the whole course of the Jordan is visible.

13 which came to his hand. This probably means “that which was in his possession.” The largeness of the present, the care shown in its selection, and the separation of the droves, so as to make Esau feel the value of the gift, and the directions to the servants—all show anxiety to appease his brother. But so far there is no expression of regret or penitence for the wrong that he had done.

22 the lord Jabok. Or, “the lord of Jabok,” is a rapid but narrow stream flowing into the Jordan from the east.

24 a man. Or, The Eternal Himself in a human form (ver. 30). It was He who wrestled with Jacob. A contest partly corporeal (ver. 25); partly spiritual (Hos. xii. 3, 4). Jacob had previously aimed to obtain the fulfilment of God’s promises by cunning. God now teaches him to put aside such means, and to throw himself dependently upon His care. Jacob succeeds when, ceasing to wrestle, he betakes himself to prayer. Then Jacob becomes Israel; the Supplanter becomes the Prince.

28 prevailed. Some ancient versions render the last clause, “thou hast power with God, and with men thou shalt prevail”; making Jacob’s successful importunity with God a pledge of his success with Esau.

30 preserved. It was a prevailing belief that no one could see any manifestation of the Deity, and live. Cp. Exod. xxxiii. 20.

31 halted. He limped; carrying with him a token of what had occurred, and a memento of the weakness which had necessitated the conflict, possibly, like Paul’s thorn in the flesh, to keep him from being unduly lifted up (2 Cor. xii. 7). Penuel and Peniel are the same.

32 eat not. A traditional custom, not enforced by any law.