Genesis 32:18 - Then you shall say, ‘They are your servant, Jacob’s. It is a present sent to my lord, Esau. Behold, he also is behind us.’”
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What does "Genesis 32:18" mean?
This verse is part of Jacob's elaborate plan to appease his estranged brother, Esau, whom he fears. Let's break down the meaning:
"Then you shall say, ‘They are your servant, Jacob’s.'": Jacob instructs the messengers to identify themselves and the livestock they are driving as belonging to Jacob, Esau's servant. This emphasizes Jacob's submission and humility. The use of the term "servant" is repeated to further emphasize this subservient position.
"It is a present sent to my lord, Esau.": This explicitly states the purpose of the large herds of animals: they are a gift (a present, a tribute) meant to gain Esau's favor and affection. Calling Esau "my lord" is another sign of Jacob's deference and attempt to de-escalate any potential conflict.
"Behold, he also is behind us.'": This part indicates that Jacob himself is following close behind the present. He's not hiding or trying to trick Esau entirely. The messenger is telling Esau, "The gifts are great, and Jacob is coming to see you personally." This is intended to reassure Esau that Jacob is coming with peaceful intentions, ready to face him directly.
Overall Meaning:
The verse highlights Jacob's fear and calculated approach to reconciliation. He is trying to:
Subdue Esau's potential anger: By presenting himself as a humble servant and showering Esau with gifts, Jacob hopes to soften Esau's heart and avoid a hostile encounter.
Show respect and acknowledge Esau's perceived superiority: Addressing Esau as "my lord" reinforces the idea that Jacob recognizes Esau's status and is willing to submit.
Communicate peaceful intent: Letting Esau know that Jacob himself is on his way suggests he is not trying to deceive or run away.
In essence, this verse is a key part of Jacob's strategy of diplomacy and damage control. He is desperately trying to repair the relationship with his brother after years of separation and past transgressions.
Genesis 32:18 - Then you shall say, ‘They are your servant, Jacob’s. It is a present sent to my lord, Esau. Behold, he also is behind us.’”
What does "Genesis 32:18" mean?
This verse is part of Jacob's elaborate plan to appease his estranged brother, Esau, whom he fears. Let's break down the meaning:
"Then you shall say, ‘They are your servant, Jacob’s.'": Jacob instructs the messengers to identify themselves and the livestock they are driving as belonging to Jacob, Esau's servant. This emphasizes Jacob's submission and humility. The use of the term "servant" is repeated to further emphasize this subservient position.
"It is a present sent to my lord, Esau.": This explicitly states the purpose of the large herds of animals: they are a gift (a present, a tribute) meant to gain Esau's favor and affection. Calling Esau "my lord" is another sign of Jacob's deference and attempt to de-escalate any potential conflict.
"Behold, he also is behind us.'": This part indicates that Jacob himself is following close behind the present. He's not hiding or trying to trick Esau entirely. The messenger is telling Esau, "The gifts are great, and Jacob is coming to see you personally." This is intended to reassure Esau that Jacob is coming with peaceful intentions, ready to face him directly.
Overall Meaning:
The verse highlights Jacob's fear and calculated approach to reconciliation. He is trying to:
Subdue Esau's potential anger: By presenting himself as a humble servant and showering Esau with gifts, Jacob hopes to soften Esau's heart and avoid a hostile encounter.
Show respect and acknowledge Esau's perceived superiority: Addressing Esau as "my lord" reinforces the idea that Jacob recognizes Esau's status and is willing to submit.
Communicate peaceful intent: Letting Esau know that Jacob himself is on his way suggests he is not trying to deceive or run away.
In essence, this verse is a key part of Jacob's strategy of diplomacy and damage control. He is desperately trying to repair the relationship with his brother after years of separation and past transgressions.