Genesis 33:5

KJV

¶ And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women and the children; and said, Who [are] those with thee? And he said, The children which God hath graciously given thy servant.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he lifted up {H5375} his eyes {H5869}, and saw {H7200} the women {H802} and the children {H3206}; and said {H559}, Who are those {H428} with thee? And he said {H559}, The children {H3206} which God {H430} hath graciously given {H2603} thy servant {H5650}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Esav looked up; on seeing the women and children, he asked, "Who are these with you?" Ya'akov answered, "The children God has graciously given to your servant."

Berean Standard Bible

When Esau looked up and saw the women and children, he asked, “Who are these with you?” Jacob answered, “These are the children God has graciously given your servant.”

American Standard Version

And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women and the children; and said, Who are these with thee? And he said, The children whom God hath graciously given thy servant.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 33:5 captures the deeply moving moment of reconciliation between Jacob and Esau, two brothers long estranged by deception and fear. As Esau beholds Jacob's large family, his question about their identity elicits Jacob's profound and humble declaration that these children are a gracious gift from God. This exchange underscores themes of divine blessing, the transformative power of God's grace in restoring broken relationships, and the essential role of humility and gratitude in receiving and acknowledging God's unmerited favor.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This pivotal encounter in [Genesis 33](/genesis/33 "Genesis 33 - Jacob and Esau Reconcile") follows two decades of separation, during which Jacob fled Esau's wrath after [deceiving his blind father Isaac to steal Esau's birthright and blessing](/genesis/27-36 "Jacob Deceives Isaac and Steals Esau's Blessing"). Jacob's arduous return journey from Haran was marked by profound apprehension regarding this reunion, prompting meticulous preparations, including sending lavish gifts ahead and strategically dividing his camp to mitigate potential harm. Just prior to meeting Esau, Jacob experienced a transformative, all-night wrestling match with a mysterious divine figure, where [his name was changed to Israel](/genesis/32-28 "Jacob's Name Changed to Israel") (Genesis 32:24-32), signifying his readiness for this momentous reconciliation and a new identity rooted in his struggle with God. The immediate verses (Genesis 33:1-4) describe Jacob's cautious approach, his bowing seven times, and Esau's unexpected embrace, setting the stage for the tender dialogue in verse 5.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, a large family was universally recognized as a clear and undeniable sign of divine blessing, prosperity, and the fulfillment of covenant promises. Children were seen as a heritage from the Lord, a source of strength, and a guarantee of lineage and legacy. The concept of reconciliation between estranged family members, especially brothers, was of immense social and cultural importance, as it preserved tribal and familial cohesion. Jacob's deferential posture (bowing seven times) and his self-designation as "thy servant" were culturally appropriate gestures of humility and respect, designed to appease and honor the elder brother, thereby facilitating peace and demonstrating his changed heart. The inquiry about family was a natural and polite way to begin a conversation, particularly after a long absence, indicating Esau's genuine curiosity rather than hostility.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 33:5 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It powerfully illustrates **Divine Faithfulness and Providence**, demonstrating how God orchestrates events, even over decades, to fulfill His promises and protect His covenant people, transforming fear into peace. The theme of **Reconciliation and Forgiveness** is central, showing that deep-seated animosity can be overcome through God's intervention and human humility, echoing the broader biblical call to peace. Furthermore, the verse highlights **Humility and Gratitude**, as Jacob, despite his wealth and large family, attributes everything to God's grace and adopts a humble posture before Esau. Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Family as a Divine Blessing**, presenting children not merely as offspring but as tangible evidence of God's favor and a continuation of the covenant lineage, as seen throughout the patriarchal narratives.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **chânan (Hebrew, _chânan'_):** This primitive root, translated as "graciously given," means to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore (i.e. move to favor by petition). Jacob's use of this word emphasizes that his children are not merely a natural outcome of procreation or the result of his own efforts, but a direct, unmerited act of God's kindness, favor, and mercy towards him. It underscores the concept of divine grace as the source of all blessings.
* **yeled (Hebrew, _yeled'_):** Derived from the verb "to be born," this word refers to something born, a lad, or offspring. In this context, it specifically denotes "children." Jacob's acknowledgment of these "children" as a gift from God highlights the biblical understanding of family and offspring as a precious heritage and a tangible sign of God's covenant faithfulness and blessing, particularly in the patriarchal narratives where descendants were central to God's promises.
* **ʻebed (Hebrew, _ʻebed'_):** Meaning "a servant" or "bondman," Jacob's self-designation as "thy servant" to Esau is a profound act of humility and deference. Despite his own prosperity and the divine blessing he had received (including his new name, Israel), Jacob consciously adopts a subordinate position before his elder brother. This demonstrates a transformed character, a willingness to humble himself for the sake of reconciliation, and a recognition of Esau's birthright status, which he had previously usurped.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women and the children;":** This opening clause describes Esau's action. "Lifting up his eyes" (H5375, _nâsâʼ_, and H5869, _ʻayin_) signifies a deliberate observation, a moment of recognition and assessment. Esau's gaze falls upon the "women" (H802, _ʼishshâh_) and "children" (H3206, _yeled_) accompanying Jacob, immediately drawing his attention to the large family that has grown during their separation. This visual cue sets the stage for his inquiry, indicating a genuine curiosity about Jacob's life.
* **"and said, Who [are] those with thee?":** Esau's direct question (H559, _ʼâmar_, and H428, _ʼêl-leh_) is crucial. It is not accusatory or hostile, but rather one of simple inquiry and perhaps even wonder. The question "Who are those with thee?" suggests an immediate interest in Jacob's new family, signaling a potential shift from past animosity to present engagement and a desire for connection, paving the way for a peaceful dialogue rather than a confrontation.
* **"And he said, The children which God hath graciously given thy servant.":** Jacob's response (H559, _ʼâmar_) is laden with theological significance and humility. He immediately identifies them as "The children" (H3206, _yeled_) and, crucially, attributes their existence to "God" (H430, _ʼĕlôhîym_) who "hath graciously given" (H2603, _chânan_) them. This declaration emphasizes divine sovereignty and grace as the source of his family's growth. Furthermore, Jacob refers to himself as "thy servant" (H5650, _ʻebed_), a profound act of humility and deference towards Esau, signaling his desire for reconciliation and acknowledging his brother's position.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Dialogue** as its primary literary device, presenting a direct exchange between Esau and Jacob. This immediate interaction allows the reader to witness the unfolding reconciliation firsthand, building tension and then releasing it through Jacob's humble and grateful response. The **Symbolism** of the children is also potent; they are not just offspring but represent God's abundant blessing and faithfulness to Jacob, especially in light of the covenant promises to Abraham and Isaac regarding numerous descendants. Jacob's reference to himself as "thy servant" is an act of **Humility**, a rhetorical posture designed to appease and honor Esau, demonstrating a profound change in Jacob's character from his earlier deceptive nature. The entire scene, particularly Jacob's response, serves as a subtle **Foreshadowing** of the peace and reconciliation that God brings, even in the most strained relationships, setting a tone of divine grace that permeates the reunion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 33:5 profoundly illustrates the theme of divine grace and providence in the lives of God's covenant people. Jacob's immediate attribution of his numerous children to God's gracious provision highlights that true prosperity, family growth, and even reconciliation are ultimately gifts from the Almighty, not solely the result of human cunning or effort. It underscores God's active involvement in fulfilling His promises, even when human actions (like Jacob's past deception) have created deep rifts. This moment serves as a powerful testament to God's ability to transform fear and conflict into unexpected peace, often exceeding human expectations and demonstrating His sovereign hand in preparing hearts for reconciliation.

* [Psalm 127:3](/psalms/127-3 "Children Are a Heritage from the Lord"): "Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward."
* [James 1:17](/james/1-17 "God is the Giver of Good Gifts"): "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning."
* [Proverbs 16:7](/proverbs/16-7 "When a Man's Ways Please the Lord"): "When a man’s ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 33:5 offers profound encouragement for believers today to recognize and acknowledge God's sovereign hand in all aspects of their lives, particularly in family and provision. It serves as a powerful reminder that [every good and perfect gift comes from above](/james/1-17 "God is the Giver of Good Gifts"), originating from the Father of lights, who gives generously and without reproach. This verse also provides a compelling example of God's transformative power, capable of turning situations of deep-seated fear and conflict into moments of peace and reconciliation, often in ways we could never anticipate or orchestrate ourselves. It calls us to cultivate a spirit of profound gratitude and genuine humility, consistently attributing our blessings and successes to God's unmerited grace rather than our own efforts or merits. In our relationships, it challenges us to extend grace and seek reconciliation, trusting that God can soften even the hardest hearts and bridge the widest divides, just as He did for Jacob and Esau.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jacob's immediate attribution of his children to God's grace challenge my own tendency to claim credit for my blessings or successes?**
* **In what areas of my life am I currently experiencing fear or conflict, and how can I trust God to bring about unexpected peace and reconciliation, as He did for Jacob and Esau?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a deeper sense of humility and gratitude for God's provision in my life, especially regarding my family and resources?**
* **How does this passage encourage me to pursue reconciliation in strained relationships, even when past hurts or fears seem insurmountable?**

### FAQ

**Why does Jacob refer to himself as "thy servant" to Esau?**

Answer: Jacob's use of "thy servant" (עַבְדֶּךָ, _avdekha_) to Esau is a deliberate and significant act of humility and deference. It signals his profound desire for reconciliation, acknowledging Esau's position as the elder brother and seeking to appease any lingering resentment from the past deception. This humble posture was crucial in diffusing tension and facilitating their peaceful reunion, demonstrating Jacob's transformed character and his willingness to submit for the sake of peace, a stark contrast to his earlier manipulative tendencies.

**What is the theological significance of Jacob attributing his children to God's grace?**

Answer: By stating "The children which God hath graciously given thy servant," Jacob explicitly acknowledges divine sovereignty and grace in his life. This is profoundly significant because it grounds his prosperity and the growth of his family not in his own cunning or hard work, but solely in God's unmerited favor. It aligns with the covenant promises made to Abraham and Isaac regarding numerous descendants (e.g., [Genesis 12:2](/genesis/12-2 "God's Promise to Abraham")), emphasizing that the increase of his family is a direct fulfillment of God's faithfulness. This declaration reinforces the biblical theme that all blessings, especially the gift of children, ultimately flow from God's benevolent hand.

**Does this verse suggest Esau was truly reconciled, or was Jacob still fearful?**

Answer: While Jacob had prepared extensively due to his deep-seated fear of Esau, Esau's question in this verse, asked in a spirit of curiosity rather than hostility, strongly indicates a genuine desire for reconciliation on Esau's part. The subsequent actions described in [Genesis 33:4](/genesis/33-4 "Esau Embraces Jacob"), where Esau ran to meet Jacob, embraced him, fell on his neck, and kissed him, confirm the authenticity and warmth of their reunion. Jacob's answer, attributing his family to God's grace, further solidifies the atmosphere of peace, suggesting that God had indeed prepared Esau's heart to receive Jacob without animosity, transforming what could have been a violent confrontation into a tender reconciliation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The reconciliation between Jacob and Esau, facilitated by God's grace and Jacob's humility, serves as a powerful foreshadowing of the ultimate reconciliation achieved through Jesus Christ. Just as God transformed Jacob's fear into peace and Esau's bitterness into brotherly affection, Christ's atoning work on the cross reconciles estranged humanity to a holy God and to one another, effectively breaking down the dividing wall of hostility that separates us (as powerfully articulated in [Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Christ Breaks Down Walls of Hostility")). Jacob's acknowledgment of his children as a gracious gift from God points to the spiritual family of God, composed of those whom the Father has graciously given to the Son (a truth beautifully expressed in [John 6:37](/john/6-37 "All the Father Gives Me Will Come to Me")), making them heirs of a greater, eternal inheritance and co-heirs with Christ ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Heirs with Christ")). The overcoming of deep-seated animosity through divine intervention in this narrative serves as a powerful testament to Christ's ability to bring about true and lasting peace, fulfilling the promise of a new creation where former things are passed away and all things are made new in Him ([2 Corinthians 5:17-19](/2_corinthians/5-17-19 "New Creation in Christ")).

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

Psalms 127:3

Lo, children [are] an heritage of the LORD: [and] the fruit of the womb [is his] reward.

Isaiah 8:18

Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me [are] for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion.

Genesis 48:9

And Joseph said unto his father, They [are] my sons, whom God hath given me in this [place]. And he said, Bring them, I pray thee, unto me, and I will bless them.

Hebrews 2:13

And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me.

Genesis 30:2

And Jacob's anger was kindled against Rachel: and he said, [Am] I in God's stead, who hath withheld from thee the fruit of the womb?

Ruth 4:13

¶ So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son.

1 Samuel 1:27

For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him: