Genesis 33:6

Then the maidservants and their children approached and bowed down.

Study Bible

Then the maidservants and their children
This phrase highlights the social structure and family dynamics within Jacob's household. The maidservants, Bilhah and Zilpah, were given to Jacob by his wives, Rachel and Leah, respectively, to bear children on their behalf. This practice reflects the customs of the time, where a woman's maidservant could serve as a surrogate to ensure the continuation of a family line. The children mentioned here are Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher, who are part of the twelve tribes of Israel, indicating the importance of each family member in the unfolding narrative of God's chosen people.

approached and bowed down
The act of bowing down signifies respect and submission, a common cultural practice in the ancient Near East when meeting someone of higher status or authority. In this context, the bowing is directed towards Esau, Jacob's brother, as a gesture of reconciliation and humility. This act is part of Jacob's strategy to appease Esau, whom he had wronged years earlier by taking his birthright and blessing. The bowing also reflects the broader biblical theme of humility before God and others, as seen in passages like Philippians 2:3, which encourages believers to consider others more significant than themselves.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob
The patriarch who is returning to Canaan after years in Haran. He is meeting his brother Esau after a long period of estrangement.

2. Esau
Jacob's brother, whom Jacob had previously deceived out of his birthright and blessing. This meeting is significant as it represents reconciliation.

3. Maidservants
These are the female servants of Jacob, likely Bilhah and Zilpah, who bore children for Jacob.

4. Children
The offspring of Jacob and his maidservants, who are part of the larger family group approaching Esau.

5. Bowing Down
A gesture of respect and submission, indicating Jacob's desire for peace and reconciliation with Esau.

Teaching Points

Humility in Relationships
The act of bowing down by Jacob's family demonstrates humility and respect. In our relationships, we should approach others with a spirit of humility, seeking peace and reconciliation.

The Importance of Reconciliation
Jacob's meeting with Esau highlights the importance of mending broken relationships. As believers, we are called to pursue peace and reconciliation with others, reflecting God's love and forgiveness.

Family Unity
The inclusion of the maidservants and their children shows the importance of family unity. In our lives, we should strive to include and value every member of our family, recognizing their role and significance.

Trust in God's Plan
Jacob's journey back to Canaan and his encounter with Esau remind us to trust in God's plan, even when facing difficult or uncertain situations. God is faithful to guide and protect us.

Respect and Honor
The cultural practice of bowing down teaches us about showing respect and honor to others. In our interactions, we should be mindful of how we can show respect and honor to those around us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of bowing down by Jacob's family reflect the biblical principle of humility, and how can we apply this in our daily interactions?

2. In what ways does the reconciliation between Jacob and Esau mirror the teachings of Jesus on forgiveness and reconciliation? How can we apply these teachings in our own lives?

3. What role does family unity play in this passage, and how can we foster unity within our own families?

4. How does Jacob's trust in God's plan during his journey back to Canaan encourage us to trust God in our own life journeys?

5. What are some practical ways we can show respect and honor to others in our community, and how does this align with biblical teachings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 32
The preceding chapter where Jacob prepares to meet Esau, including his prayer for deliverance and his wrestling with God, which signifies his transformation and reliance on God.

Philippians 2
This passage speaks of humility and considering others above oneself, which is reflected in the act of bowing down as a gesture of humility and respect.

Matthew 5
Jesus' teaching on reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of making peace with others, which is a central theme in Jacob's encounter with Esau.