Yaakov’s greatest fear: the unknown

Yaakov sends messengers to Eisav telling Eisav his story about having lived with Lavan and having amassed wealth. Perhaps Yaakov is indicating his intent to put the past behind them. “I am happy to share my wealth with you, and I hope you are well. I am your servant.” It could be Yaakov hopes not to see Eisav at all.

The messengers come back with the news that “we ‘came’ to your brother, to Eisav, and he is ‘going’ to you accompanied by 400 men.” Alshikh explains “coming” implies closeness (how Yaakov’s servants intended to approach Eisav), while “going” implies distance, perhaps the attitude Eisav was bringing to his encounter with Yaakov.

Where was Eisav coming from? Some suggest he was at home, with no intent to come until he heard Yaakov was on his way (Sforno, Ibn Ezra). But his intent is unclear: he’s simply “coming” (Ramban); he’s coming to fight because he hates you (Rashi and many others); he is happy about your return and is bringing 400 men to honor you (Rashbam, Chizkuni).

The indication of the verse is that Rashbam and Chizkuni are correct, and that the fear of battle was all in Yaakov’s mind. The encounter reflects no ill intentions — Eisav greets Yaakov warmly with hug and kiss, he is gracious and magnanimous. Why then was Yaakov afraid?

As Rashi and others suggest, Yaakov was concerned either that he would be killed or be forced to take a life in self-defense. But G-d had promised him that He would protect him and return him home safely! Where is Yaakov’s faith in G-d?

If Adino HaEtzni (Shmuel II 23:8) killed 800 men by himself, why should Yaakov, who fought with an angel, be afraid of 400 men? (R Chaim Paltiel)

The Midrash tells in the name of Resh Lakish and Rav Yanai that each of the 400 men was a “man” like Eisav — each was in charge of 400 men. This suggests he had to face at least 160,000 people, providing a legitimate cause for concern.