John Calvin Commentary Genesis 35:9

"And God appeared unto Jacob again, when he came from Paddan-aram, and blessed him." — Genesis 35:9 (ASV)

And God appeared unto Jacob. Moses, having introduced a few words on the death of Deborah, recounts a second vision by which Jacob was confirmed after his return to Bethel. Once, in this place, God had appeared to him when he was on his way into Mesopotamia. In the meantime, God had testified in various ways, as was needed, that He would be present with him everywhere throughout his whole journey; but now he is brought back again to that very place where a more illustrious and memorable oracle had been given to him, in order that he may receive again a new confirmation of his faith.

The blessing of God here means nothing other than his promise; for though people pray for blessings on each other, God declares himself to be the sole Dispenser of perfect happiness. At this time, Jacob heard nothing new; but the same promise is repeated to him, so that he, as one who had returned from captivity to his own country and had gathered new strength to his faith, might accomplish with greater courage the remaining course of his life.