Genesis 32:1-11 ▼

1 Jacob went on his way, and God’s angels met him.

2 When he saw them, Jacob said, “This is God’s camp.” So he called that place Mahanaim.

3 Jacob sent messengers ahead of him to his brother Esau in the land of Seir, the territory of Edom.

4 He commanded them, “You are to say to my lord Esau, ‘This is what your servant Jacob says. I have been staying with Laban and have been delayed until now.

5 I have oxen, donkeys, flocks, and male and female slaves. I have sent this message to inform my lord, in order to seek your favor.’ ”

6 When the messengers returned to Jacob, they said, “We went to your brother Esau; he is coming to meet you—and he has four hundred men with him.”

7 Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed; he divided the people with him into two camps, along with the flocks, herds, and camels.

8 He thought, “If Esau comes to one camp and attacks it, the remaining one can escape.”

9 Then Jacob said, “God of my father Abraham and God of my father Isaac, the LORD who said to me, ‘Go back to your land and to your family, and I will cause you to prosper,’

10 I am unworthy of all the kindness and faithfulness you have shown your servant. Indeed, I crossed over the Jordan with my staff, and now I have become two camps.

11 Please rescue me from my brother Esau, for I am afraid of him; otherwise, he may come and attack me, the mothers, and their children.