Genesis 33:2

2 He put the slaves and their children in front, Leah and her children after them, and Rachel and Joseph last.

Genesis 33:2 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 33:2

And he put the handmaids and their children foremost
In the first division, as being less honourable and less beloved by him: and Leah and her children after;
still according to the degree of honour and affection due unto them; Leah being a wife that was imposed and forced upon him: and Rachel and Joseph hindermost;
being most beloved by him, and therefore most careful of them; Rachel being his principal and lawful wife, and who had the greatest share in his affection, and Joseph his only child by her.

Genesis 33:2 In-Context

1 Jacob saw Esau coming with 400 men. So he divided the children among Leah, Rachel, and the two slaves.

2 He put the slaves and their children in front, Leah and her children after them, and Rachel and Joseph last.

3 He went on ahead of them and bowed seven times with his face touching the ground as he came near his brother.

4 Then Esau ran to meet Jacob. Esau hugged him, threw his arms around him, and kissed him. They both cried.

5 When he saw the women and children, Esau asked, "Who are these people here with you?" "The children God has graciously given me, sir," Jacob answered.