Genesis 32:30

Authorized King James Version

And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּקְרָ֧א

H7121

called

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

יַֽעֲקֹ֛ב

H3290

And Jacob

jaakob, the israelitish patriarch

שֵׁ֥ם

H8034

the name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

הַמָּק֖וֹם

H4725

of the place

properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)

פְּנִיאֵ֑ל

H6439

Peniel

penuel or peniel, a place east of jordan; also (as penuel) the name of two israelites

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

רָאִ֤יתִי

H7200

for I have seen

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

אֱלֹהִים֙

H430

God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

פָּנִ֔ים

H6440

face

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

#10

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#11

פָּנִ֔ים

H6440

face

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

#12

וַתִּנָּצֵ֖ל

H5337

is preserved

to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense

#13

נַפְשִֽׁי׃

H5315

and my life

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of life connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about life, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Genesis.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern narrative literature addressing origins and identity shapes this text's meaning. The development from creation to divine election established God's sovereign care over history Understanding a worldview where divine beings actively governed natural and historical processes helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes life in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding life in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on life address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of life differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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