Genesis 32:19

KJV

And so commanded he the second, and the third, and all that followed the droves, saying, On this manner shall ye speak unto Esau, when ye find him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And so {H1571} commanded he {H6680} the second {H8145}, and the third {H7992}, and all that followed {H1980}{H310} the droves {H5739}, saying {H559}, On this manner {H1697} shall ye speak {H1696} unto Esau {H6215}, when ye find {H4672} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

He also instructed the second servant, and the third, and all that followed the droves, "When you encounter 'Esav, you are to speak to him in the same way,

Berean Standard Bible

He also instructed the second, the third, and all those following behind the herds: “When you meet Esau, you are to say the same thing to him.

American Standard Version

And he commanded also the second, and the third, and all that followed the droves, saying, On this manner shall ye speak unto Esau, when ye find him;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 32:19 details Jacob's meticulous and repeated instructions to his servants, ensuring that the specific message intended for Esau was delivered consistently by each successive wave of gift-bearing droves. This command was an integral part of Jacob's elaborate strategy to appease his estranged brother, emphasizing humility and generosity, and carefully preparing Esau for their long-anticipated reunion after two decades of separation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 32 is a pivotal chapter in the Jacob narrative, marking his return to Canaan after twenty years with Laban. The immediate literary context shows Jacob grappling with profound fear and anxiety as he anticipates encountering his brother Esau, from whom he had fled after [deceiving him out of his birthright and blessing](/genesis/27-30-41 "Genesis 27:30-41 - Jacob's Deception and Esau's Hatred"). The chapter begins with a divine encounter at Mahanaim ([Genesis 32:1-2](/genesis/32-1-2 "Genesis 32:1-2 - Jacob's Encounter with Angels")), followed by Jacob sending messengers to Esau ([Genesis 32:3-5](/genesis/32-3-5 "Genesis 32:3-5 - Jacob Sends Messengers to Esau")). Upon hearing that Esau is approaching with 400 men, Jacob is "greatly afraid and distressed" ([Genesis 32:7](/genesis/32-7 "Genesis 32:7 - Jacob's Fear and Distress")). In response, he divides his camp, prays fervently ([Genesis 32:9-12](/genesis/32-9-12 "Genesis 32:9-12 - Jacob's Prayer to God")), and then devises a comprehensive plan involving a series of costly gifts, or "droves," sent ahead of him. Verse 19 specifically reiterates the instructions for the latter groups, underscoring the systematic and persistent nature of Jacob's appeasement strategy.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, diplomatic encounters, especially between estranged family members or potential adversaries, often involved elaborate gift-giving as a means of reconciliation, tribute, or appeasement. Gifts were not merely tokens but carried significant symbolic weight, demonstrating respect, submission, or a desire for peace. The sending of multiple, staggered droves, each accompanied by a deferential message, was a highly sophisticated tactic. Furthermore, the concept of "face" and honor was paramount; Jacob's self-identification as "thy servant" to Esau, his elder brother, was a profound act of humility, effectively reversing their traditional roles and acknowledging Esau's superior status. This act was designed to disarm Esau's potential wrath, which was culturally understood as a legitimate response to Jacob's past deception. The geography of the region, as Jacob approached Edom (Esau's territory), also made a peaceful resolution critical for his safe passage and future settlement in Canaan.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. The primary theme is **Reconciliation and Peacemaking**, as Jacob actively seeks to mend a deeply fractured family relationship, demonstrating a proactive approach to conflict resolution. It also highlights **Human Prudence and Divine Providence**, illustrating how Jacob's earnest prayer for deliverance ([Genesis 32:9-12](/genesis/32-9-12 "Genesis 32:9-12 - Jacob's Prayer for Deliverance")) is immediately followed by meticulous human planning and strategic action. This interplay suggests that faith does not negate responsibility but often works in conjunction with wise and diligent effort. The theme of **Humility and Deference** is also prominent, as Jacob, despite his wealth and God's promises, adopts a subservient posture towards Esau, recognizing the need to humble himself to achieve peace. Finally, the narrative underscores the **Consequences of Past Actions** and the long shadow they cast, necessitating significant effort to overcome.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **commanded (Hebrew, _tsâvâh'_):** This primitive root means "to constitute, enjoin; appoint, (for-) bid, (give a) charge, (give a, give in, send with) command(-er, -ment)." Here, it emphasizes Jacob's authoritative and deliberate instruction. It's not a mere suggestion but a firm directive, highlighting the seriousness and precision of his plan. The verb implies a setting in order, a careful arrangement of his strategy.
* **manner (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** Derived from the root "to speak," this noun signifies "a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing." In this context, "on this manner" refers directly to the specific "word" or "message" that the servants were to deliver to Esau. It underscores the exactness required in their communication, ensuring that the verbal message accompanying the gifts was consistent and impactful, reinforcing Jacob's deferential posture.
* **find (Hebrew, _mâtsâʼ'_):** This primitive root means "to come forth to, i.e. appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e. find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present." The phrase "when ye find him" introduces a contingency, indicating that the instructions were to be carried out upon the actual encounter with Esau. It implies a search or a meeting, emphasizing the direct, personal delivery of the message and gifts, rather than leaving them for Esau to discover.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And so commanded he the second, and the third, and all that followed the droves,"**: This clause reveals the systematic and comprehensive nature of Jacob's strategy. Having given instructions to the first group, he reiterates the identical command to the subsequent groups of servants leading the various animal droves. The phrase "all that followed the droves" indicates that no group was exempt; every segment of his procession carrying gifts was to participate in this pre-emptive appeasement. This repetition underscores Jacob's thoroughness and his determination to ensure the message's consistent delivery and cumulative effect.
* **"saying,"**: This simple participle introduces the direct speech that follows, indicating the content of Jacob's command. It links the act of commanding with the specific message to be conveyed.
* **"On this manner shall ye speak unto Esau,"**: This is the core of the instruction. "On this manner" refers to the precise message detailed in the preceding verses (specifically [Genesis 32:18](/genesis/32-18 "Genesis 32:18 - The Message for Esau") and [Genesis 32:20](/genesis/32-20 "Genesis 32:20 - Jacob's Plan to Pacify Esau")), which involved identifying the gifts as from "thy servant Jacob" and informing Esau that Jacob himself was following behind. The command to "speak" highlights the verbal component of the appeasement strategy, emphasizing that the gifts were to be accompanied by a deferential and explanatory message.
* **"when ye find him."**: This concluding phrase specifies the timing and condition for the delivery of the message. It's not a general broadcast but a direct, personal address to Esau upon encountering him. This contingency clause adds to the realism and practicality of Jacob's plan, ensuring the message's impact at the critical moment of meeting.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to enhance its meaning and impact. **Repetition** is evident in Jacob's command being given not just to one group but to "the second, and the third, and all that followed the droves," emphasizing the meticulous and pervasive nature of his strategy. This highlights Jacob's anxiety and his desire to leave nothing to chance. The use of **Foreshadowing** is also present, as Jacob's careful preparation and the detailed instructions hint at the momentous and potentially dangerous encounter with Esau that is soon to unfold. The entire passage, including this verse, functions as **Suspense-building**, as the reader is kept in anticipation of Esau's reaction to Jacob's elaborate overtures. Finally, the phrase "On this manner shall ye speak" implies a **Specific Protocol**, indicating a carefully choreographed diplomatic maneuver rather than a casual encounter, underscoring the gravity of the situation and Jacob's strategic foresight.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jacob's actions in Genesis 32:19 exemplify a profound theological truth: while divine promises are sovereign, human responsibility and diligent effort are often the means through which God works. Jacob had received a direct promise of protection and prosperity from God ([Genesis 32:9-12](/genesis/32-9-12 "Genesis 32:9-12 - Jacob's Prayer and God's Promise")), yet he did not passively await divine intervention. Instead, he engaged in meticulous planning, demonstrating wisdom and prudence in navigating a potentially life-threatening situation. This proactive approach to reconciliation, marked by humility and generosity, reflects a biblical principle that peace is often pursued through active, sometimes costly, measures. It underscores that true faith is not a substitute for wise action but often compels it, as we trust God while diligently working towards His purposes.

* [Proverbs 15:1](/proverbs/15-1 "Proverbs 15:1 - A Soft Answer Turns Away Wrath")
* [Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "Romans 12:18 - Live Peaceably with All")
* [Matthew 5:9](/matthew/5-9 "Matthew 5:9 - Blessed are the Peacemakers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 32:19, within the broader narrative of Jacob's encounter with Esau, offers profound lessons for contemporary believers navigating strained relationships and seeking reconciliation. Jacob's meticulous planning and repeated instructions underscore the importance of intentionality and perseverance in peacemaking. We are called not to merely hope for reconciliation, but to actively pursue it, even when it requires significant effort, humility, and vulnerability. Jacob, a wealthy man, willingly adopted a posture of deference, calling himself Esau's "servant" and sending costly gifts. This reminds us that genuine reconciliation often demands setting aside pride, acknowledging past wrongs (even implicitly), and approaching others with humility and generosity. His example encourages us to combine earnest prayer with practical, well-thought-out strategies, recognizing that faith and action are not mutually exclusive but complementary. Just as Jacob prepared the way for his encounter, we too should prepare our hearts and actions when seeking to mend broken bonds, trusting God's sovereignty while exercising our responsibility.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you called to be a peacemaker, even when it feels daunting or risky?**
* **How can Jacob's combination of earnest prayer and meticulous planning inform your approach to difficult relationships or challenging circumstances?**
* **What "gifts" of humility or generosity might you need to offer to facilitate reconciliation in a strained relationship?**
* **How does Jacob's willingness to humble himself challenge your own pride when seeking to mend broken relationships?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jacob send multiple droves of gifts with repeated instructions?**

Answer: Jacob's decision to send multiple droves, each with the same message, was a deliberate and sophisticated strategy to maximize the psychological impact of his gifts and message of humility. The staggered delivery was intended to gradually soften Esau's heart and "pacify" his anger before Jacob's personal arrival, as stated in [Genesis 32:20](/genesis/32-20 "Genesis 32:20 - Jacob's Intention to Pacify Esau"). This repetition ensured the message was clearly understood and emphasized Jacob's deference, building anticipation and reducing the likelihood of a hostile reception. It was a calculated diplomatic maneuver designed to overwhelm Esau with generosity and humility, making it difficult for him to maintain his wrath.

**Does Jacob's elaborate planning indicate a lack of faith in God's protection?**

Answer: Not at all. While Jacob had just prayed earnestly to God for deliverance and reminded God of His promises ([Genesis 32:9-12](/genesis/32-9-12 "Genesis 32:9-12 - Jacob's Prayer and God's Promise")), his meticulous planning demonstrates a biblical principle that faith often works in conjunction with prudent human action. Jacob's actions show responsibility, wisdom, and a sober assessment of the potential danger, rather than presuming upon God's intervention without any effort on his part. It is an example of praying as if everything depends on God, and working as if everything depends on you, illustrating the dynamic interplay between divine sovereignty and human responsibility.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jacob's humble approach and strategic pursuit of reconciliation with Esau, involving a costly offering and deferential posture, profoundly foreshadows the ultimate act of reconciliation achieved through Jesus Christ. Just as Jacob sought to pacify Esau's wrath and restore relationship, Christ, the greater Son of Abraham and Isaac, offered the ultimate "gift" to God on behalf of humanity. Through His sacrificial death on the cross, He appeased divine wrath and made peace between a holy God and sinful humanity, becoming the perfect mediator. He did not merely send gifts but became the gift, humbling Himself to the point of death, even the death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility")). By His blood, He reconciled all things to God, whether on earth or in heaven ([Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Colossians 1:20 - Christ Reconciles All Things")). Jacob's fear and desire for a peaceful encounter find their ultimate resolution in Christ, who has overcome the world and offers true peace and reconciliation to all who believe, bridging the chasm of sin and hostility that separates humanity from God ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")).

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.