Genesis 28:17

KJV

And he was afraid, and said, How dreadful [is] this place! this [is] none other but the house of God, and this [is] the gate of heaven.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he was afraid {H3372}, and said {H559}, How dreadful {H3372} is this place {H4725}! this is none other but the house {H1004} of God {H430}, and this is the gate {H8179} of heaven {H8064}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then he became afraid and said, "This place is fearsome! This has to be the house of God! This is the gate of heaven!"

Berean Standard Bible

And he was afraid and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God; this is the gate of heaven!”

American Standard Version

And he was afraid, and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 28:17 captures Jacob's profound and immediate reaction upon awakening from his transformative dream of a ladder connecting earth to heaven. Overwhelmed by a direct, unexpected encounter with God and the powerful covenant promises just received, he declares the ordinary wilderness spot where he slept to be a place of immense sanctity, recognizing it as nothing less than "the house of God" and "the gate of heaven," marking it as a unique point of divine-human interface.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This pivotal verse immediately follows Jacob's dream at Bethel, a critical turning point in his narrative arc within the book of Genesis. Having just fled his brother Esau's wrath after deceptively securing the birthright blessing, Jacob is a vulnerable wanderer. The dream, detailed in [Genesis 28:12-15](/genesis/28-12-15 "Jacob's Dream and God's Covenant Promises"), reveals a ladder (or staircase) extending from earth to heaven, with angels ascending and descending upon it. At its summit, God Himself stands, reaffirming the Abrahamic covenant promises of land, numerous descendants, and divine protection, specifically to Jacob. Verse 17 is Jacob's astonished and reverent response to this unsolicited divine revelation, setting the stage for his subsequent vow and the naming of the place as Bethel in [Genesis 28:18-19](/genesis/28-18-19 "Jacob's Vow and Naming of Bethel").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, dreams were often considered significant conduits for divine communication, and the concept of sacred spaces where heaven and earth met was common. Pillars or altars were frequently erected to mark such places of divine encounter. Jacob's journey from Beersheba to Haran was a perilous one, traversing desolate wilderness. His act of using a stone for a pillow and sleeping in the open air highlights his vulnerable and exposed state. The subsequent naming of the site as "Bethel" (House of God) reflects the ancient practice of designating specific locations as holy, often associated with theophanies (appearances of God) or significant covenant events, which would then become sites of pilgrimage or worship for future generations.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 28:17 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores God's **sovereign initiative** in revealing Himself to humanity, even to those who are flawed or fleeing. It highlights the theme of **divine omnipresence**, demonstrating that God is not confined to specific temples but can manifest anywhere, transforming an ordinary place into sacred ground through His presence. The verse also introduces the concept of **sacred space** and foreshadows the importance of designated places of worship, like the tabernacle and temple. Furthermore, it reinforces the **continuity of the covenant promises** made to Abraham and Isaac, showing God's faithfulness to His redemptive plan despite human failings, a theme that resonates throughout the patriarchal narratives, as seen in God's repeated assurances to Abraham in [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "God's Call to Abraham") and Isaac in [Genesis 26:2-5](/genesis/26-2-5 "God's Promises to Isaac").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Upon awakening, Jacob is profoundly impacted by the divine encounter, expressing his awe and understanding of the sacred nature of the place. His declaration in Genesis 28:17 reveals a deep theological insight into God's presence and the connection between heaven and earth.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **afraid (Hebrew, _yârêʼ'_):** This word, also translated as "dreadful" in the KJV, comes from a primitive root meaning "to fear; morally, to revere; caus. to frighten." In this context, Jacob's fear is not one of terror or dread in a negative sense, but rather a profound, holy reverence and awe in the presence of the divine. It signifies an overwhelming sense of the sacred, transforming an ordinary spot into a place of immense spiritual significance.
* **house (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to build," _bayith_ refers to a physical dwelling, but also extends to encompass family, household, and by extension, a temple or place of worship. Jacob's declaration that this place is "the house of God" indicates his recognition of it as a divine dwelling, a sanctuary where God's presence is uniquely manifested, not merely a physical structure but a spiritual abode.
* **gate (Hebrew, _shaʻar'_):** From a root meaning "to open," _shaʻar_ literally means an opening, door, or gate, often referring to the entrance of a city. In this verse, it metaphorically signifies a point of access or a conduit. Jacob perceives this spot as a literal entry point, a permeable boundary where the divine realm intersects with the earthly, allowing for communication and transit between heaven and earth.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he was afraid":** Jacob's immediate reaction upon waking is one of profound awe and reverence, rather than terror. This "fear" is a holy dread, a recognition of the immense power and majesty of God's presence, which has transformed an ordinary wilderness spot into sacred ground. It is the appropriate human response to a direct divine encounter, akin to Moses' experience at the burning bush ([Exodus 3:5](/exodus/3-5 "Moses at the Burning Bush")).
* **"and said, How dreadful is this place!":** Jacob's exclamation further emphasizes his overwhelming sense of the sacred. The term "dreadful" (from the same root as "afraid") here means "awe-inspiring" or "awesome." He is not expressing fear of danger, but rather an astonished realization of the holiness and power that permeates this seemingly unremarkable location.
* **"this is none other but the house of God":** Jacob's theological insight leads him to identify this place as a divine dwelling. He understands that God has chosen to manifest His presence here, making it a sacred space, a sanctuary. This recognition foreshadows his later naming of the place "Bethel" (House of God) in [Genesis 28:19](/genesis/28-19 "Jacob names the place Bethel"), solidifying its significance in Israel's history as a site of divine revelation and worship.
* **"and this is the gate of heaven":** This powerful phrase conveys Jacob's understanding of the location as a direct access point between the earthly and heavenly realms. It signifies a permeable boundary, a conduit through which divine communication, angelic activity, and God's presence can move freely between the spiritual and physical worlds. It suggests that at this specific spot, the veil between heaven and earth is thin, allowing for direct interaction.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Exclamation** ("How dreadful is this place!") vividly conveys Jacob's intense emotional and spiritual reaction to the divine encounter, emphasizing his awe and reverence. The use of **Metaphor** is central, as Jacob describes the place as "the house of God" and "the gate of heaven." These are not literal architectural structures but figurative expressions that transform a wilderness spot into a sacred sanctuary and a portal to the divine realm, highlighting the spiritual significance infused into the physical location. The **Repetition** of "this" ("this place," "this is none other," "this is the gate") serves to emphasize the specific, immediate, and profound impact of the revelation on Jacob's perception of the very ground he stands on.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jacob's encounter at Bethel profoundly illustrates God's active involvement in the lives of His people, transforming an ordinary wilderness into a sacred space through His presence. This experience underscores that God is not confined to human-made structures but can reveal Himself anywhere, initiating a covenant relationship and providing comfort and direction even in moments of vulnerability and flight. It highlights humanity's appropriate response to divine holiness: a mixture of awe, reverence, and a profound awareness of God's majesty.

* [Exodus 3:5](/exodus/3-5 "Moses and the Burning Bush")
* [Psalm 84:10](/psalm/84-10 "Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere")
* [Isaiah 6:1-5](/isaiah/6-1-5 "Isaiah's Vision of the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jacob's experience at Bethel serves as a powerful reminder that God's presence is not limited to designated sacred buildings or specific times of worship. An ordinary moment or place can be transformed into a profound spiritual encounter when we become aware of God's nearness. This verse encourages believers to cultivate a constant awareness of God's omnipresence and to approach Him with a spirit of reverence and awe, recognizing that every place has the potential to become "the house of God" and a "gate of heaven" when we acknowledge His sovereignty and active presence in our lives. It challenges us to look beyond the mundane and perceive the sacred in our everyday lives, understanding that God desires to meet us wherever we are, transforming our perception of reality through His divine presence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jacob's "fear" of God differ from ordinary fear, and what does this teach us about encountering the divine?**
* **In what ways can an "ordinary" place in your life become a "house of God" or "gate of heaven" through an awareness of His presence?**
* **What does Jacob's immediate response to God's revelation tell us about the appropriate human posture before divine holiness?**

### FAQ
**What does "dreadful" mean in this context?**

Answer: In [Genesis 28:17](/genesis/28-17 "Jacob's declaration at Bethel"), the King James Version's use of "dreadful" translates the Hebrew word *yârêʼ* (H3372), which in a sacred context signifies "awe-inspiring," "awesome," or "reverent." Jacob was not experiencing terror or fear in a negative sense, but rather a profound sense of holy wonder and overwhelming reverence in the presence of God. It denotes the overwhelming majesty and holiness of the divine presence.

**Why is the place named Bethel?**

Answer: Jacob names the place *Bethel* (בֵּית־אֵל) in [Genesis 28:19](/genesis/28-19 "Jacob names the place Bethel"), which literally means "House of God." He does this because his dream and divine encounter convinced him that this ordinary wilderness spot was where God had uniquely revealed Himself, making it a sacred dwelling place or gateway for divine interaction. This naming solidifies its spiritual significance for future generations.

**What is the significance of "the gate of heaven"?**

Answer: "The gate of heaven" implies a direct and accessible point of connection between the earthly realm and the divine. It suggests a place where the barrier between heaven and earth is permeable, allowing for communication, revelation, and the movement of divine beings (angels) and God's presence to humanity. It signifies an open channel for spiritual interaction, a place where the divine and human spheres intersect.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jacob's vision of a ladder or staircase connecting heaven and earth, culminating in the declaration of "the gate of heaven," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself explicitly alludes to this event, declaring to Nathanael, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man" ([John 1:51](/john/1-51 "Jesus as the connection between heaven and earth")). Christ is the true "ladder" or "gate" through whom humanity gains access to God. He is the ultimate mediator, the very "house of God" in whom the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Fullness of God in Christ")), making direct communion with the Father possible. Through His incarnation, death, and resurrection, Jesus permanently bridges the gap between the divine and human, becoming the sole and perfect way to the Father ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), the living "gate of heaven" for all who believe and enter through Him ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "Jesus, the Gate")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Timothy 3:15

But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.

Genesis 35:1

¶ And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother.

Genesis 35:13

And God went up from him in the place where he talked with him.

Exodus 3:6

Moreover he said, I [am] the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God.

Ecclesiastes 5:1

¶ Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil.

2 Chronicles 5:14

So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the house of God.

Luke 2:9

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.