Jacob saw Esau coming with his 400 men. So he divided the children among Leah, Rachel and his two servant wives. He put the servant wives first, then Leah, then Rachel. Then Jacob went ahead. As he approached his brother, he bowed seven times. Esau ran to hug him and kissed him. They both wept.
Esau asked who the people were with him.
“These are my children.” The wives and children came before Esau and bowed before him.
“And what were all the flocks and herds I met as I came?”
“They are a gift, my lord, to ensure your friendship.”
“I have plenty. Keep what you have for yourself.”
But Jacob insisted. “What a relief it is to see your friendly smile. It’s like seeing the face of God!”
And because Jacob insisted, Esau accepted the gifts.
“Well, let’s get going. I’ll lead the way.”
But Jacob replied, “Some of my children are very young, and the flocks and herds have young, too. If they are driven too hard, the animals could die. Please go ahead of your servant. We will follow at a pace that is comfortable for the livestock and children. I will meet you at Seir.”
“All right. But at least let me assign some of my men to guide and protect you.”
“That’s not necessary. It’s enough that you’ve received me warmly, my lord!”
So Esau started back to Seir that same day. But Jacob went to Succoth, where he built a house and shelter for his livestock.
Later he arrived in Shechem, in Canann, where he set up camp outside town. He bought land from the family of Hamor, the father of Shechem, for 100 pieces of silver. There he built an altar.
Arsenio Franklin 