1 As Jacob went on his way, some angels met him.
2 When he saw them, he said, “This is God's camp”; so he called the place Mahanaim.
3 Jacob sent messengers ahead of him to his brother Esau in the country of Edom.
4 He instructed them to say: “I, Jacob, your obedient servant, report to my master Esau that I have been staying with Laban and that I have delayed my return until now.
5 I own cattle, donkeys, sheep, goats, and slaves. I am sending you word, sir, in the hope of gaining your favour.”
6 When the messengers came back to Jacob, they said, “We went to your brother Esau, and he is already on his way to meet you. He has 400 men with him.”
7 Jacob was frightened and worried. He divided into two groups the people who were with him, and also his sheep, goats, cattle, and camels.