“And he put the handmaids and their children foremost, and Leah and her children after, and Rachel and Joseph hindermost.”
Genesis 33 recounts the meeting between Jacob and Esau after Jacob’s return from his exile with Laban. It is a significant event in the narrative of the book of Genesis, as it marks the reconciliation between the two brothers after years of separation and potential enmity.
In Genesis 33:1:Jacob sees Esau approaching with four hundred men, which understandably makes him fearful. Jacob had deceived Esau in the past, obtaining both his birthright and their father Isaac’s blessing. Esau had vowed to kill Jacob in retaliation, prompting Jacob to flee to his uncle Laban’s house.
However, in verse 2:we see an interesting and unexpected action by Jacob. Instead of putting himself and his favored wife Rachel and their son Joseph in the front, he arranges his family in a specific order: the handmaids (maidservants) and their children go first, followed by Leah and her children, and Rachel and Joseph at the rear.
This particular arrangement of his family demonstrates Jacob’s concern for their safety and the priority he places on protecting the most vulnerable members. By placing the handmaids and their children in the front, he shields them from any potential danger or harm that might arise in his encounter with Esau. Jacob, being aware of Esau’s might and potential hostility, wants to ensure the safety of his entire family.
It is important to note that Jacob had two wives, Leah and Rachel, along with their handmaids, Bilhah and Zilpah, who also bore him children. The birth order of the children is as follows: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah (born to Leah); Dan and Naphtali (born to Bilhah); Gad and Asher (born to Zilpah); and finally, Joseph (born to Rachel).
Jacob’s decision to position Rachel and Joseph at the rear could also be interpreted as a strategic move. If any harm were to come to him and his family during the encounter with Esau, he wanted to ensure that his most beloved wife, Rachel, and their son, Joseph, would be as protected as possible.
This verse reveals Jacob’s care and concern for his family, especially the vulnerable members, and demonstrates his willingness to put their well-being ahead of his own. It also highlights the reconciliation process between Jacob and Esau, as Jacob takes steps to prevent any unnecessary conflict or harm.
Overall, Genesis 33:2 showcases the complex dynamics of Jacob’s family and provides insight into Jacob’s protective nature and strategic thinking. It teaches us the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of our loved ones, as well as the significance of seeking reconciliation and peace, even in the face of past conflicts or misunderstandings.
