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Book of Hosea - Chapter 12 - Verse 4

12:4
Yea, he had power over the angel, and prevailed: he wept, and made supplication unto him: he found him in Bethel, and there he spake with us;

Meaning

This verse comes from the book of Hosea in the Old Testament and describes an encounter between Jacob and an angel. In this passage, Jacob wrestles with the angel and prevails, demonstrating his strength and determination. However, the most significant aspect of this verse is Jacob's vulnerability and humility as he weeps and makes supplication to the angel. This shows Jacob's willingness to seek help and guidance from a higher power. The mention of Bethel, a place of great significance in Jacob's story, further emphasizes the importance of this encounter. Overall, this verse reflects the complexity of Jacob's character - his strength, determination, vulnerability, and willingness to seek guidance from God in times of need.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the speaker acknowledges that a person had power over an angel and prevailed through weeping and supplication. This instance occurred in Bethel, where the individual had a significant encounter with the angel, resulting in a conversation that impacted those around him. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the power of prayer, the importance of persistence, and the significance of spiritual encounters. The concept of prevailing through weeping and supplication underscores the idea of seeking divine intervention through heartfelt prayers and petitions. The reference to Bethel, a place often associated with spiritual encounters in the Bible, indicates the sacredness of the location and the significance of the interaction that took place there. This verse serves as a reminder of the transformative power of engaging with the divine through prayer and seeking encounters with spiritual beings.

American Standard Version

yea, he had power over the angel, and prevailed; he wept, and made supplication unto him: he found him at Beth-el, and there he spake with us,
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