What does Genesis 33:6 mean?
Jacob's wives and children have been arranged behind him in three or four distinct groups, presumably with space between them (Genesis 33:1–3). Jacob's intent behind this was probably to place his favored wife and son at the back, so they'd have the best chance to escape in the event that Esau was still intent on revenge (Genesis 27:41–45).The first to approach Esau are Jacob's two servant wives with their children. These are Bilhah and Zilpah, originally given to Jacob's wives as wedding gifts by their father, Laban (Genesis 29:24, 28). Due to rivalry and competition between sisters Leah and Rachel, these two also became mothers of Jacob's children (Genesis 30:3, 9). All of them bow before Esau, as Jacob had likely instructed them to do.
Genesis 33:1–11 describes the long awaited meeting between Jacob and Esau. Jacob maintains his attitude as Esau's cautious servant throughout, though Esau himself embraces his twin warmly and they weep together at their reunion. Esau hesitates, but Jacob insists his brother receive the enormous gift of livestock he has given. Esau does so. The two will part on good terms.
All the preparations to meet Esau have been made. Jacob has both the promise of the Lord's protection and a plan. Now the moment comes. Jacob approaches, repeatedly bowing low, until Esau finally runs to embrace and kiss his brother. They weep together. Esau meets Jacob's family. Though he initially refuses Jacob's enormous gift, Jacob urges him to take it as a sign of Esau's favor for him. Jacob soon buys land and sets up camp outside the city of Shechem, building an altar to the Lord there.
