Jacob wrestles God

At the Jabbok, alone having made all the preparations for the looming encounter with Esau, Jacob wrestles with God. He refuses to let go.

Jacob wronged Esau. Esau has a force with him that can destroy Jacob and all he has. No human can protect Jacob and his family. He is totally, existentially vulnerable.

In the darkness he clings. Despite injury he will not let go. For his effort, he receives a new name. No longer Jacob – “grabber”. Now he is Israel – “one who prevails with God.”

No one who prevails with God seems to escape this darkness.