Jacob was greatly afraid, &c.— When the messengers returned with the information that Esau was advancing to meet Jacob, with four hundred men, having no idea of his brother's kind and honourable intentions to him, Jacob apprehended little less than destruction. He resolved, however, to make use of every prudent measure; and accordingly, not only divided his train into two distinct bands, but sent magnificent presents, disposed in striking order, to soothe his brother; and had recourse in a most humble and fervent prayer to the God who had graciously engaged to protect him, Genesis 32:9. His prayer is a pattern for all grateful minds, and testifies at once the most humble and most thankful disposition, I am not worthy, &c.
Related Commentaries of Genesis 32:7
Genesis 32:7
7 Then Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed: and he divided the people that was with him, and the flocks, and herds, and the camels, into two bands;