Genesis 33:8

"What do you mean by sending this whole company to meet me?" asked Esau. "To find favor in your sight, my lord," Jacob answered.

Study Bible

“What do you mean by sending this whole company to meet me?” asked Esau.
Esau's question reflects a moment of surprise and perhaps suspicion. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, the sending of a large company or entourage could signify various intentions, such as a gesture of peace, a show of power, or a request for favor. Esau, having been wronged by Jacob in the past (Genesis 27), might have been wary of Jacob's intentions. The "whole company" refers to the gifts and servants Jacob sent ahead as a peace offering, which was a common practice to appease or honor someone of higher status. This encounter takes place in the region of Seir, where Esau had settled, indicating a geographical separation between the brothers that had persisted since Jacob fled to Haran.

“To find favor in your sight, my lord,” Jacob answered.
Jacob's response is one of humility and deference, addressing Esau as "my lord," which indicates a recognition of Esau's status and an attempt to reconcile. This phrase echoes the cultural norms of the time, where seeking favor was often accompanied by gifts and respectful language. The use of "favor" is significant in biblical narratives, often denoting grace or acceptance, and can be seen in other scriptures such as Ruth 2:10 and Esther 5:2. Jacob's approach can be seen as a type of Christ, who also seeks reconciliation and peace, offering Himself as a gift to restore broken relationships. This act of seeking favor is a turning point in Jacob's life, showing a transformation from his earlier deceitful ways to a more humble and penitent character.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob
The younger son of Isaac and Rebekah, who had previously deceived his brother Esau out of his birthright and blessing. In this chapter, Jacob is returning to Canaan after years in Haran and is seeking reconciliation with Esau.

2. Esau
The elder brother of Jacob, who was wronged by Jacob in the past. Esau is now meeting Jacob after many years, and there is tension regarding how he will receive Jacob.

3. The Company
Refers to the gifts and servants sent by Jacob ahead of his meeting with Esau. This was a gesture of goodwill and an attempt to appease Esau.

4. Canaan
The land to which Jacob is returning, which holds significant promise as the land given to Abraham and his descendants.

5. Reconciliation
The event of Jacob and Esau meeting after years of estrangement, highlighting themes of forgiveness and restoration.

Teaching Points

Seeking Reconciliation
Jacob's approach to Esau demonstrates the importance of taking initiative in mending broken relationships. We should actively seek peace and reconciliation with those we have wronged.

Humility in Relationships
Jacob refers to Esau as "my lord," showing humility and respect. In our interactions, we should adopt a posture of humility, especially when seeking forgiveness.

The Power of Gifts
Jacob's use of gifts to appease Esau illustrates how thoughtful gestures can help mend relationships. Consider how acts of kindness can pave the way for reconciliation in your own life.

Trust in God's Promises
Despite his fear, Jacob moves forward in faith, trusting in God's promises. We are encouraged to trust God even when facing difficult or fearful situations.

Forgiveness and Restoration
The eventual reconciliation between Jacob and Esau is a powerful reminder of the possibility of forgiveness and restoration, even after deep hurt.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's approach to Esau reflect principles of reconciliation found in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we apply Jacob's humility in our own efforts to mend broken relationships?

3. How do the gifts Jacob sent ahead of him serve as a practical tool for reconciliation, and how can we use similar strategies today?

4. What role does trust in God's promises play in Jacob's actions, and how can we apply this trust in our own lives when facing fear?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced reconciliation. How did it compare to the account of Jacob and Esau, and what lessons can you draw from both experiences?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 32
Provides context for Jacob's fear and preparation to meet Esau, including his prayer for deliverance and the sending of gifts.

Proverbs 21:14
Discusses how a gift given in secret can pacify anger, which relates to Jacob's strategy in sending gifts to Esau.

Matthew 5:23-24
Jesus teaches about reconciliation with a brother before offering a gift at the altar, paralleling Jacob's actions in seeking peace with Esau.