Genesis 46:2

And that night God spoke to Israel in a vision: "Jacob, Jacob!" He said. "Here I am," replied Jacob.

Study Bible

And that night
This phrase sets the temporal context for the divine encounter. The night often symbolizes a time of vulnerability and reflection in biblical narratives. In the Hebrew context, night can be a time when God reveals His will, as seen in other instances like the dreams of Joseph. The use of "night" here underscores the intimacy and solemnity of the moment when God chooses to communicate with Jacob.

God spoke
The Hebrew word for "spoke" is "דִּבֶּר" (dibber), which implies a direct and personal communication. This is not a mere impression or feeling but a clear and articulate message from God. The act of God speaking highlights His personal involvement and the importance of the message being conveyed. It is a reminder of the living and active nature of God, who engages with His people.

to Israel
The use of "Israel" instead of "Jacob" initially is significant. "Israel" is the name given to Jacob after wrestling with God (Genesis 32:28), symbolizing his transformation and the covenant relationship with God. This name reflects Jacob's identity as the father of the twelve tribes and the nation of Israel. It emphasizes the covenantal aspect of the communication and the broader implications for the descendants of Jacob.

in a vision
The Hebrew word for "vision" is "מַרְאָה" (mar'ah), which indicates a supernatural revelation. Visions are a common means through which God communicates His will and guidance in the Old Testament. This method of communication signifies the clarity and authority of the message. It is a divine encounter that transcends ordinary experience, providing assurance and direction.

'Jacob, Jacob!'
The repetition of Jacob's name is a literary device used to convey urgency and importance. It is a call to attention, emphasizing the personal nature of God's message. This repetition is seen in other biblical instances, such as "Moses, Moses" (Exodus 3:4), indicating a significant moment of divine intervention. It underscores God's intimate knowledge of and relationship with Jacob.

He said
This phrase introduces the direct speech of God, highlighting the immediacy and personal nature of the communication. It is a reminder that God is not distant but actively engages with His people, providing guidance and reassurance.

'Here I am,'
Jacob's response, "Here I am," is a statement of readiness and willingness to listen. The Hebrew phrase "הִנֵּנִי" (hineni) is a declaration of availability and submission to God's will. It reflects a posture of obedience and attentiveness, a model for how believers should respond to God's call. This response is echoed by other biblical figures, such as Abraham and Samuel, indicating a readiness to serve and follow God's direction.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The Almighty, who communicates directly with Jacob, affirming His guidance and presence.

2. Israel/Jacob
The patriarch of the Israelites, who is called by both his given name, Jacob, and his God-given name, Israel, signifying his role as the father of the twelve tribes.

3. Vision
A divine communication method used by God to convey His will and guidance to Jacob.

4. Beersheba
The location where Jacob offers sacrifices to God before receiving the vision, a place of significant spiritual encounters for the patriarchs.

5. Egypt
The destination Jacob is preparing to journey to, where his son Joseph is, and where the Israelites will eventually settle.

Teaching Points

God's Personal Call
God knows us by name and calls us personally, just as He did with Jacob. This emphasizes the intimate relationship God desires with each of us.

Response to God's Call
Jacob's immediate response, "Here I am," serves as a model for our readiness and willingness to respond to God's call in our lives.

Divine Guidance in Uncertainty
Just as God guided Jacob during a time of transition and uncertainty, He offers us guidance and assurance when we face life's unknowns.

Faith and Obedience
Jacob's journey to Egypt, prompted by God's vision, underscores the importance of faith and obedience in following God's direction, even when it leads us into unfamiliar territory.

Continuity of God's Promises
The vision reaffirms God's promises to Jacob and his descendants, reminding us of the faithfulness of God to His covenant promises throughout generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's personal call to Jacob in Genesis 46:2 reflect His relationship with us today?

2. In what ways can we prepare ourselves to respond like Jacob, saying "Here I am," when God calls us?

3. How can we seek and discern God's guidance during times of transition or uncertainty in our lives?

4. What are some examples from other parts of the Bible where God calls individuals by name, and what can we learn from their responses?

5. How does understanding God's faithfulness to His promises in the past encourage us to trust Him with our future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 28:10-15
Jacob's earlier encounter with God in a dream at Bethel, where God promises to be with him and bring him back to the land.

Exodus 3:4
God's call to Moses from the burning bush, where He also repeats the name, emphasizing the personal nature of His call.

Acts 9:10
Ananias's vision where God calls him by name, illustrating the continuity of God's personal communication with His people.

Isaiah 43:1
God's assurance to Israel, calling them by name and affirming His redemption and presence.