Genesis 35:7
And he built there an altar, and called the place Elbethel: because there God appeared unto him, when he fled from the face of his brother.
Genesis 35:7 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "And he built there an altar, and called the place Elbethel: because there God appeared unto him, when he fled from the face of his brother" is a significant moment in the story of Jacob from the book of Genesis. In this verse, Jacob, who is on the run from his brother Esau, has a powerful encounter with God. He builds an altar at the place where he sees God, naming it Elbethel which means "God of the house of God." This name symbolizes the sense of awe and reverence Jacob feels in that moment. The act of building an altar and naming the place highlights Jacob's desire to honor and worship God for the divine encounter he experienced. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God in times of trouble and acknowledging His presence in our lives.
Theological Overview
Elbethel, meaning "the God of the house of God," is a significant place in the biblical account of Jacob's journey. After Jacob flees from his brother Esau, he encounters God in a dream at a place he later names Elbethel. This encounter marks a pivotal moment in Jacob's life as he comes to understand the presence and faithfulness of God in his journey. The act of building an altar signifies Jacob's desire to honor and worship God at this spot where divine revelation occurred. The theological interpretation of this verse points to the importance of recognizing God's presence in our lives, especially in moments of fear and uncertainty. By naming the place Elbethel, Jacob acknowledges that God is not confined to one location but is the God who is with him wherever he goes. Thus, this verse serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of acknowledging His presence in our lives.
Genesis 35:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he built there an altar, and called the place El-beth-el; because there God was revealed unto him, when he fled from the face of his brother.
World English Bible
He built an altar there, and called the place El Beth El; because there God was revealed to him, when he fled from the face of his brother.
Douay-Rheims
And he built there an altar, and called the name of that place, The house of God: for there God appeared to him when he fled from his brother.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And he built there an altar, and had called the place, The God of Beth-el, because that God appeared vnto him there, when he fled from his brother.