1
So Jacob went on his way, and the angels of God met him.
2
When Jacob saw them, he said, "This is God's camp." And he called the name of that place Mahanaim.
3
Then Jacob sent messengers before him to Esau his brother in the land of Seir, the country of Edom.
4
And he commanded them, saying, "Speak thus to my lord Esau, 'Thus your servant Jacob says: "I have dwelt with Laban and stayed there until now.
5
I have oxen, donkeys, flocks, and male and female servants; and I have sent to tell my lord, that I may find favor in your sight." ' "
6
Then the messengers returned to Jacob, saying, "We came to your brother Esau, and he also is coming to meet you, and four hundred men are with him."
7
So Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed; and he divided the people that were with him, and the flocks and herds and camels, into two companies.
8
And he said, "If Esau comes to the one company and attacks it, then the other company which is left will escape."