The biblical narrative states that when Jacob wrestled with a divine being, the being touched the socket of Jacob's thigh, causing it to become dislocated. The specific side—whether it was his left or right hip—is not mentioned in the account.
This pivotal moment in Jacob's life occurred during a solitary encounter as he journeyed back to face his brother Esau. The mysterious figure, identified as the Lord, engaged Jacob in a wrestling match that lasted until daybreak.
Details of the Encounter at Peniel
The encounter between Jacob and the divine being is a rich and symbolic moment in biblical history. It highlights themes of perseverance, divine intervention, and transformation.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| The Wrestlers | Jacob and a divine being (often identified as the Lord or an angel). |
| Duration | The wrestling match lasted through the night until the break of dawn. |
| The Touch Point | When the divine being saw that he had not prevailed against Jacob, he touched the socket of Jacob's thigh. |
| The Consequence | This touch caused the socket of Jacob's thigh to be dislocated while he wrestled, resulting in a permanent limp. |
| Specificity | The biblical account does not specify whether the touch was to Jacob's left or right hip. The focus is on the location (the thigh socket) and the physical effect. |
| Significance | This event led to Jacob's name being changed from Jacob (meaning "supplanter") to Israel (meaning "he struggles with God" or "God strives"), symbolizing a profound transformation in his character and destiny. It marked a new beginning for him and the nascent nation he would father. |
Key Takeaways from the Narrative
- Location of Impact: The divine touch was precisely on the socket of Jacob's thigh.
- Unspecified Side: The exact side (left or right hip) is not provided in the biblical text.
- Lasting Mark: Jacob was left with a permanent limp, a physical reminder of his intense struggle and his direct encounter with the divine.
- Symbolic Transformation: The physical injury and name change signify Jacob's spiritual victory and his new identity as one who has contended with God and prevailed.
This powerful narrative underscores the mysterious nature of divine encounters and their transformative impact on individuals. The lack of specificity regarding which hip was touched emphasizes the spiritual significance over a precise anatomical detail.
For further exploration of Jacob's wrestling match and its theological implications, you can consult reputable biblical resources such as Bible Gateway.
