The account of Jacob wrestling with the angel occurs in Genesis 32:24:
“Then Jacob was left alone; and a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day.”
This event happened the night before Jacob was to meet Esau, whom he feared after years of separation. Alone and distressed, Jacob encountered a mysterious Man, later revealed to be a divine being, an appearance of God Himself in human form (Hosea 12:3–4 confirms this interpretation).
The struggle continued all night, showing Jacob’s persistence. When the Man touched Jacob’s hip and dislocated it (Genesis 32:25), Jacob realized he was not wrestling an ordinary man. Despite his injury, Jacob clung to Him and said in Genesis 32:26:
“I will not let You go unless You bless me!”
Jacob’s determination demons/”>demonstrated his dependence on God rather than his own strength. The Lord responded by giving Jacob a new name in Genesis 32:28:
“Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed.”
The name Israel means “one who struggles with God” or “Prince with God.” This marked a turning point in Jacob’s life, as he was no longer relying on deceit or manipulation but on God’s blessing and power.
This encounter teaches that spiritual growth often comes through struggle. Jacob’s limp became a lasting reminder of his weakness and God’s strength. Ultimately, this account foreshadows the believer’s need for surrender and reliance on God for victory.
