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There are many explanations regarding the episode of Yaakov’s battle with the “man.” Indeed, the divergence between the literal and symbolic meanings of the episode is reflected in the many interpretations applied to this passage. Many commentators view the narrative as a parable for the righteous individual’s inner struggle against the forces of evil. Yaakov stands alone in the vastness, in the deep silence of the night, a mortal being in confrontation with the Divine messenger. This mysterious encounter represents the numerous struggles which surface on the eve of an approaching ordeal. The Sh’lah Hakadosh views this struggle in the…

As a consequence of Yaakov and Eisav’s confrontation, Hashem made a revelation to Yaakov. A reminder of this encounter is interwoven into the daily life of Am Yisrael. Just as Yaakov and Eisav opposed each other, so, too, in contemporary life they face one another. They each represent a distinct way of life, originating from two different sets of goals. Yaakov is characterized as a hard-working and loving family man, blessed with children. Opposite him stands Eisav, a man of “accomplishment” and substance, of power and glamour. For twenty years Yaakov struggled to raise a family, to educate children, to…