Genesis 33:4Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

He humbled himself seven times before his brother, seeking to gain his favor through both his demeanor and worship. Thus it happened that Esau, it is said, hurried to greet him, embraced him, fell upon his neck, kissed him, and wept. Consider the divine providence at work! What I mentioned previously bears repeating: when the Sovereign of all wishes to demonstrate His love for us, He transforms even those who harbor ill feelings toward us into gentle and humble spirits. Observe the profound transformation within Esau. It is noted that he ran to greet him, embraced him, fell upon his neck, kissed him, and wept. Finally, the righteous man felt a sense of relief, cast aside his fears, and, liberated from anxiety, became courageous.

The divine Jacob was filled with fear concerning his brother Esau, and feeling the weight of past anger, he found himself in a state of despair. Yet, he set aside his previous jealousy and welcomed Jacob, embracing him with tears, succumbing to the innate love that binds brothers. As scripture reveals, 'And Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and kissed him, and wept.' Such actions reflect the essence of gentleness, the product of a humble and non-threatening spirit, bestowed by God’s grace upon those who cherish Him. Indeed, God has the power to soften the hearts of the harsh, smooth the rough edges, and instill peace within those who earnestly seek Him.

God accomplished everything He had assured Jacob. He blessed him, led him forth, and accompanied him as He had vowed. He rescued him from Laban and spared him from his brother Esau.

In response to his prayer (Genesis 32:9), God graciously listened, bestowing generous blessings upon the humble supplicant. Through divine intervention, Esau’s heart underwent a transformation: formerly filled with animosity, it was now ignited with love for his brother. Esau laid aside his weapon, rushed into his brother's embrace, and the two siblings wept joyfully together.

As Jacob nears his homeland, he views his brother as a formidable adversary, yet through his carefulness, prayer, offering, humility, and wisdom in steering clear of conflict, he triumphs over him. In a similar way, utilizing the same spiritual tools—particularly the fervent prayer that can exhaust the flesh—the new creation within conquers the old self and is firmly grounded in grace and divine promise.