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He himself passed over in front of them, and bowed himself to the ground seven times, until he came near to his brother.

Verse Takeaways

1

Courage in Humility

Commentators note that Jacob acted with both courage and wisdom. He "manfully went first" (Ellicott), placing himself in front of his family to protect them. His sevenfold bowing was a profound act of humility, a "token of complete submission" (Barnes) designed to turn away his brother's potential wrath. This shows that true leadership can involve both bravery and humble submission.

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Book Overview

Genesis

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Commentaries

7

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Genesis 33:1–20

18th Century

Theologian

סכת (sûkkôth) refers to Sukkoth, meaning “booths,” which consisted of poles forming a roof covered with branches, leaves, or gras…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Genesis 33:3

19th Century

Bishop

He passed over before them. — While providing some small chance of escape for his wives and children, arranged according to their rank, Ja…

Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon

On Genesis 33:3–4

19th Century

Preacher

God had been very gracious to him, and all his fears were gone, so he met Esau as a brother, not as an enemy, and the four hundred men were willing…

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John Calvin

John Calvin

On Genesis 33:3

16th Century

Theologian

And bowed himself to the ground seven times. Indeed, he might have done this to give honor: for we know that people in the East are accust…

John Gill

John Gill

On Genesis 33:3

17th Century

Pastor

And he passed over before them At the head of them, as the master of the family, exposing himself to the greatest danger …

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Genesis 33:1–16

17th Century

Minister

Jacob, having by prayer committed his case to God, went on his way. Come what will, nothing can come amiss to him whose heart is fixed, trusting in…

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