Genesis 33:6

King James Version:

(The Lord speaking is red text)

Then the handmaidens came near, they and their children, and they bowed themselves.

Complete Jewish Bible:

Then the slave-girls approached with their children, and they prostrated themselves;

Berean Standard Bible:

Then the maidservants and their children approached and bowed down.

American Standard Version:

Then the handmaids came near, they and their children, and they bowed themselves.

KJV with Strong’s Numbers:

Then the handmaidens^{H8198} came near^{H5066}, they and their children^{H3206}, and they bowed themselves^{H7812}.

Cross-References (KJV):

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Commentary for Genesis 33:6

Genesis 33:6 is part of the narrative concerning the reconciliation between Jacob and Esau, which occurs after many years of estrangement due to Jacob's deceit in obtaining their father Isaac's blessing. The verse specifically describes the moment when the handmaidens of Jacob, along with their children, approach Esau and bow before him as a sign of respect and submission. This act is significant as it reflects the cultural norms of the time regarding hospitality and the hierarchical relationships between individuals of different social standings.

The handmaidens, likely Bilhah and Zilpah, are the servants of Jacob's wives, Leah and Rachel. Their children, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher, are part of Jacob's twelve sons who will become the progenitors of the twelve tribes of Israel. The bowing of the handmaidens and their children to Esau demonstrates Jacob's recognition of Esau's status and his desire to make amends, while also showcasing the large family and prosperity that Jacob has amassed during his time away from Esau, which could serve to humble Esau or appease any lingering resentment.

Historically, this scene is set in the context of ancient Near Eastern tribal societies, where such gestures of humility and the acknowledgment of kinship ties were crucial for maintaining peace and forging alliances. The encounter between Jacob and Esau is a turning point in their relationship, illustrating themes of forgiveness, family dynamics, and the restoration of broken relationships. It also highlights the importance of respect for elders and those in authority, a value that was highly esteemed in the culture of the time and continues to be a significant theme throughout the biblical narrative.

*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model

Strong's Numbers and Definitions:

Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)

1. Strong's Number: H8198
   There are 58 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: שִׁפְחָה
   Transliteration: shiphchâh
   Pronunciation: shif-khaw'
   Description: feminine from an unused root meaning to spread out (as a family; see מִשְׁפָּחָה); a female slave (as a member of the household); (bond-, hand-) maid(-en, -servant), wench, bondwoman, womanservant.
   
2. Strong's Number: H5066
   There are 112 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: נָגַשׁ
   Transliteration: nâgash
   Pronunciation: naw-gash'
   Description: a primitive root; to be or come (causatively, bring) near (for any purpose); euphemistically, to lie with a woman; as an enemy, to attack; religious to worship; causatively, to present; figuratively, to adduce an argument; by reversal, to stand back; (make to) approach (nigh), bring (forth, hither, near), (cause to) come (hither, near, nigh), give place, go hard (up), (be, draw, go) near (nigh), offer, overtake, present, put, stand.
   
3. Strong's Number: H3206
   There are 76 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: יֶלֶד
   Transliteration: yeled
   Pronunciation: yeh'-led
   Description: from יָלַד; something born, i.e. a lad or offspring; boy, child, fruit, son, young man (one).
   
4. Strong's Number: H7812
   There are 166 instances of this translation in the Bible
   Lemma: שָׁחָה
   Transliteration: shâchâh
   Pronunciation: shaw-khaw'
   Description: a primitive root; to depress, i.e. prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or God); bow (self) down, crouch, fall down (flat), humbly beseech, do (make) obeisance, do reverence, make to stoop, worship.