Then the handmaidens came near, they and their children, and they bowed themselves.
Then the handmaidens came near, they and their children, ... All Jacob's children without reserve had left their litters or vehicles, and were on foot, as appearing before their superior. This was a token of profound respect, and, though very marked, it would appear natural; because Esau being the older brother, was, according to the custom of the East, entitled to respectful treatment from his younger brother. His attendants would be struck by it, and, according to Eastern habits, would magnify it in the hearing of their master.