Commentary on Genesis 33:20

Genesis 33:20 states, "And he erected there an altar and called it Elelohe-Israel." This verse marks a significant moment in Jacob's journey, reflecting his relationship with God and the covenant established with his descendants. Through a synthesis of insights from various public domain commentaries, we explore the deeper meanings and implications of this passage.

Contextual Overview

To fully appreciate Genesis 33:20, it is essential to consider the surrounding events. After years of estrangement from his brother Esau, Jacob returns to the land of Canaan. Their reconciliation is pivotal, as it signifies not only familial restoration but also Jacob's transformation from a fugitive to a patriarch affirming his role in God's covenant.

Significance of the Altar

The act of erecting an altar holds profound theological significance. As noted by Matthew Henry, the altar symbolizes Jacob's worship and acknowledgment of God's protection and guidance throughout his life. It is a physical representation of the spiritual dedication Jacob now commits to as he returns home. He is not merely seeking reconciliation with Esau but reinstating the worship of Yahweh in the land of promise.

Purpose of the Altar

• Worship and Gratitude: By constructing the altar, Jacob expresses his gratitude for God's deliverance from Laban and the safe passage back to Canaan. It serves as a site for offerings and praises.
• Public Declaration: The altar functions as a public testimony of Jacob’s faith and the covenant promises God made to Abraham and Isaac, reaffirming their relationship with Yahweh in the presence of his family and future generations.

Name of the Altar: Elelohe-Israel

The name Jacob gives to the altar, Elelohe-Israel, translates to "God, the God of Israel." This naming is rich in meaning and implies several key aspects:

• Personal Revelation: Jacob refers to God in a personal manner that reflects his new identity as 'Israel.' This acknowledgment signifies a deepening relationship with God founded on previous encounters and the transformation he underwent.
• Covenant Identity: The name reminds Jacob and his descendants that they are part of a chosen lineage, vested with God's promises. It establishes a collective identity that will prevail through generations.
• A Reminder of Sovereignty: By attributing God's power and authority to this altar, Jacob acknowledges God's supremacy in his life. As Barnes highlights, this act of naming indicates Jacob's ownership of his faith and his commitment to living under God's lordship.

Theological Implications

Genesis 33:20 brings to focus several theological teachings that are relevant for pastors, students, and scholars. Key implications include:

• Covenantal Faithfulness: The establishment of the altar underscores God's enduring faithfulness to His covenant. The altar represents a historical marker of faith for Jacob that relates to the broader narrative of God's promises throughout Scripture.
• Transformation and Redemption: Jacob's journey reflects God's ability to transform individuals from their past. The shift from Jacob, the deceiver, to Israel, the one who strives with God advances the idea of redemptive grace.
• Importance of Worship: The act of building an altar emphasizes the necessity of worship in the believer's life. As Clarke notes, worship is not merely a ritual but a relational act expressing gratitude, devotion, and acknowledgment of God's role in literally every aspect of life.
• Community and Legacy: Jacob's actions serve to instill in his family the importance of worshiping Yahweh. It reflects a community-oriented faith, compelling his descendants to embrace their identity and responsibilities within God’s covenant.

Lessons for Contemporary Believers

The rich tapestry woven in Genesis 33:20 continues to resonate with believers today. Reflecting on Jacob’s commitment can encourage contemporary Christians in the following ways:

• Create Spaces for Worship: Just as Jacob erected an altar, believers today are called to create spaces for worship that remind them of God’s goodness and faithfulness.
• Acknowledge God in Difficult Times: Jacob’s journey back home after years of conflict highlights the need to recognize God’s hand in our lives, especially during transitions.
• Commit to Generational Faith: Jacob’s act serves as a reminder to promote faith within families, ensuring that future generations understand their identity in Christ and the legacy of faith.

Conclusion

Genesis 33:20 encapsulates a critical moment in Jacob's life, a moment where worship, identity, and legacy converge. By building an altar named Elelohe-Israel, Jacob not only establishes a covenant relationship with God but also lays a powerful foundation for the generations that follow. The insights gleaned from this verse offer profound reflections on the nature of faith, the importance of worship, and the role of generational legacy in the life of a believer.