Genesis 32:13

And he lodged there that same night; and took of that which came to his hand a present for Esau his brother;

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיָּ֥לֶן

H3885

And he lodged

to stop (usually over night); by implication, to stay permanently; hence (in a bad sense) to be obstinate (especially in words, to complain)

שָׁ֖ם

H8033

there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

בַּלַּ֣יְלָה

H3915

there that same night

properly, a twist (away of the light), i.e., night; figuratively, adversity

הַה֑וּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

וַיִּקַּ֞ח

H3947

and took

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

מִן

H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

הַבָּ֧א

H935

of that which came

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

בְיָד֛וֹ

H3027

to his hand

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

מִנְחָ֖ה

H4503

a present

a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)

#10

לְעֵשָׂ֥ו

H6215

for Esau

esav, a son of isaac, including his posterity

#11

אָחִֽיו׃

H251

his brother

a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine revelation reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the tribal and clan-based society of the ancient Near East. The author writes to address the foundational narrative for Israel's identity and relationship with God, making the emphasis on creation and providence particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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