Genesis 16–50 (Word Biblical Commentary, Volume 2 | WBC)

Top Highlights

“His old name, Jacob, recalled his past underhand dealings; his new name, Israel, recalled this incident in which he wrestled with God and prevailed. ‘Thus his renaming as Israel is not merely an honourable accolade, it is itself a valuable gift, a blessing’ (Dillmann, 357). Whenever his descendants heard this name, or used it to describe themselves, they were reminded of its origin and of its meaning, that as their father had triumphed in his struggle with men (i.e., Esau and Laban) and with God, so they too could eventually hope to triumph. Within this episode, of course, his new name is a guarantee of a successful meeting with his brother Esau.” (Page 297)

“So this story of Jacob’s struggle with God summed up for Israel their national destiny. Among all their trials and perplexities in which God seemed to be fighting against them, he was ultimately on their side; indeed, he would triumph, and in his victory, Israel would triumph too.” (Page 303)

“To bestow a blessing, the blesser must know who he is blessing. But for an angel to ask Jacob’s name is superfluous. However, by divulging his name, Jacob also discloses his character. It is here a confession of guilt; as Jeremiah puts it, ‘Every brother Jacobs [rsv, is a supplanter]’ (Jer 9:3 [4]). In uttering his name, Jacob admits he has cheated his brother; cf. ‘Is he not rightly called Jacob? He has tricked me these two times’ (27:36).” (Page 296)

“The reference to dawn indicates first that the struggle continued a good while, and second explains why Jacob was unaware of his foe’s identity and indeed took him on. Had he realized that his enemy was divine, he would never have engaged him in a fight.” (Page 295)