Genesis 32:27

"What is your name?" the man asked. "Jacob," he replied.

Study Bible

What is your name?
This question, posed by the mysterious man who wrestles with Jacob, is deeply significant. In the Hebrew context, a name is not merely a label but a reflection of one's character and destiny. The Hebrew word for "name" is "shem," which can denote reputation, fame, or memory. By asking Jacob his name, the man is prompting a moment of self-reflection and confession. Jacob, whose name means "supplanter" or "heel-grabber," is confronted with his past actions of deceit and manipulation. This question is not just about identity but about transformation. It invites Jacob to acknowledge who he has been and prepares him for the new identity he will receive. In a broader scriptural context, this moment foreshadows the transformative encounters with God that lead to a new creation, as seen in the New Testament with Saul becoming Paul.

the man asked
The identity of "the man" in this passage has been the subject of much theological discussion. In the Hebrew text, the word used is "ish," which simply means "man." However, the narrative context and subsequent verses reveal that this is no ordinary man. Many conservative Christian scholars interpret this figure as a theophany, a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, or an angelic being representing God. This encounter is a pivotal moment in Jacob's life, symbolizing a divine intervention that challenges and changes him. The act of asking is significant; it suggests a divine invitation to introspection and honesty. In the broader biblical narrative, God often asks questions not for His own knowledge but to lead individuals to a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationship with Him. This aligns with the scriptural theme of God seeking a personal and transformative relationship with His people, as seen throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob
The central figure in this passage, Jacob is the son of Isaac and Rebekah, and the twin brother of Esau. Known for his cunning and determination, Jacob is on a journey of transformation and reconciliation.

2. The Man
Often interpreted as an angel or a theophany (a manifestation of God), this figure wrestles with Jacob throughout the night, leading to a pivotal moment of identity and blessing.

3. Peniel
The place where Jacob wrestles with the man. It is significant as the location where Jacob's name is changed to Israel, symbolizing his transformation and the divine encounter.

4. The Wrestling Event
This event is a physical and spiritual struggle that represents Jacob's internal conflict and his striving with God and men.

5. Name Change
The question about Jacob's name leads to a significant transformation, as Jacob is later renamed Israel, meaning "he struggles with God."

Teaching Points

Identity in Christ
Just as Jacob's identity was transformed through his encounter with God, believers are given a new identity in Christ. Reflect on how your identity is shaped by your relationship with God.

Perseverance in Prayer
Jacob's wrestling signifies persistent prayer and seeking God's blessing. Encourage believers to persist in prayer, even when faced with struggles.

Divine Encounters
God meets us in our struggles and can transform our weaknesses into strengths. Be open to divine encounters that challenge and change you.

Confession and Honesty
Jacob's admission of his name is an act of confession. Emphasize the importance of honesty before God as a step towards transformation.

Transformation through Struggle
Life's struggles can lead to spiritual growth and transformation. Encourage viewing challenges as opportunities for growth in faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's encounter with the man at Peniel reflect your own experiences of wrestling with God in prayer or life challenges?

2. In what ways does your identity in Christ change how you view yourself and your purpose?

3. How can the account of Jacob's perseverance inspire you to persist in prayer and seeking God's will in difficult times?

4. What are some areas in your life where you need to be honest with God, as Jacob was when he admitted his name?

5. How can you use your struggles as opportunities for spiritual growth and transformation, similar to Jacob's experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 35:10
This verse reaffirms Jacob's name change to Israel, highlighting the importance of identity in God's plan.

Hosea 12:3-4
Reflects on Jacob's struggle with the angel, emphasizing his perseverance and seeking God's favor.

Revelation 2:17
Speaks of receiving a new name, symbolizing a new identity in Christ, similar to Jacob's transformation.