Genesis 32:6

6 The messengers returned to Ya`akov, saying, "We came to your brother Esav. Not only that, but he comes to meet you, and four hundred men with him."

Genesis 32:6 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 32:6

And the messengers returned to Jacob
After they had delivered their message, with the answer they brought back: saying, we came to thy brother Esau;
which, though not expressed, is implied in these words, and is still more manifest by what follows: and also he cometh to meet thee;
and pay a friendly visit, as they supposed: and four hundred men with him;
partly to show his grandeur, and partly out of respect to Jacob, and to do honour to him; though some think this was done with an ill design upon him, and which indeed seems probable; and it is certain Jacob so understood it, as is evident by the distress it gave him, and by the methods he took for his safety, and by the gracious appearance of God unto him, and the strength he gave him on this occasion, not only to pray to and wrestle with him, but to prevail both with God and men, as the following account shows. The Targums of Jonathan and Jerusalem call these four hundred men leaders or generals of armies, which is not probable; they were most likely Esau's subjects, his tenants and servants.

Genesis 32:6 In-Context

4 He commanded them, saying, "This is what you shall tell my lord, Esav: 'This is what your servant, Ya`akov, says. I have sojourned with Lavan, and stayed until now.

5 I have oxen, donkeys, flocks, men-servants, and maid-servants. I have sent to tell my lord, that I may find favor in your sight.'"

6 The messengers returned to Ya`akov, saying, "We came to your brother Esav. Not only that, but he comes to meet you, and four hundred men with him."

7 Then Ya`akov was greatly afraid and was distressed: and he divided the people who were with him, and the flocks, and the herds, and the camels, into two companies;

8 and he said, "If Esav comes to the one company, and strikes it, then the company which is left will escape."