Jacob Wrestling with God

Illustration of Jacob Wrestling with God

In the quiet hours before facing his estranged brother, Jacob finds himself alone and engaged in a mysterious struggle that lasts until dawn. Clinging to his opponent despite injury, he demands a blessing and receives both a new name and a lasting reminder of divine encounter. This pivotal moment transforms the deceiver into Israel, one who prevails with God, marking a turning point in the patriarch's life and the unfolding promise to his descendants.

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Category
Personal
Prayed by
Jacob

Key Passages

The Prayer

Genesis 32:24-30

A24nd Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day.

25 And when he saw that he prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacobโ€™s thigh was out of joint, as he wrestled with him. 26 And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me. 27 And he said unto him, What is thy name? And he said, Jacob. 28 And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed. 29 And Jacob asked him, and said, Tell me, I pray thee, thy name. And he said, Wherefore is it that thou dost ask after my name? And he blessed him there. 30 And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.

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