Old Testament
Genesis 32:28
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then the man said, "Your name will no longer be Jacob but Israel, because like a prince you have power with God and with men and have prevailed."
Compare translations
And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.
What Genesis 32:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Jacob, who had been struggling with his identity and past, receives a new name: Israel. This change signifies a transformation in his life. The name Israel means 'he struggles with God,' highlighting that Jacob has fought through challenges and emerged victorious. His new identity reflects not just his personal journey but also his relationship with God. By prevailing, Jacob shows that he has gained strength and favor, both with God and people. This moment marks a turning point, where Jacob's past is left behind, and he steps into a new role. It emphasizes that our struggles can lead to growth and a deeper connection with the divine. Jacob's story encourages us to embrace our challenges, knowing they can lead to profound change and purpose in our lives. We, too, can find strength in our struggles and emerge transformed, just as Jacob did in this pivotal encounter with God. His new name serves as a reminder that we can redefine ourselves through our experiences.
How to apply Genesis 32:28 to your life
Consider the struggles you face in life. They can be opportunities for growth and transformation. Embrace your challenges, knowing they can lead to a stronger sense of self and a deeper connection with others and with God. Your past does not define you; your journey does. Find strength in your struggles and redefine your identity through them. Be open to change and growth as you navigate life's challenges. Trust that you can emerge victorious.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jacob's story: Wrestling at Peniel (Genesis 32:22–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jacob
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Genesis 32:28
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Genesis 32:28
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does the name Israel mean in Genesis 32:28?
In Genesis 32:28, the name Israel means 'he struggles with God.' This name change signifies Jacob's transformation after wrestling with a divine being. It reflects his journey of overcoming personal struggles and challenges, emphasizing that he has gained strength and favor with both God and people.
Why did Jacob's name change to Israel?
Jacob's name changed to Israel after he prevailed in a struggle with God. This moment marked a significant transformation in his life, symbolizing his growth and the new identity he was to embrace. The change signifies that he has moved past his old self and is now recognized for his strength and relationship with God.
What can we learn from Jacob's struggle in Genesis 32:28?
Jacob's struggle teaches us that challenges can lead to personal growth and transformation. His encounter with God highlights the importance of perseverance and faith in overcoming difficulties. It encourages us to embrace our struggles, as they can redefine our identity and strengthen our relationship with God.
How does Genesis 32:28 relate to personal identity?
Genesis 32:28 illustrates how our experiences, including struggles, shape our identity. Jacob's new name, Israel, represents a pivotal change in his life, showing that we can redefine ourselves through our challenges. It emphasizes that our past does not define us; rather, our journey and how we respond to struggles do.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.