ESV Reformation Study Bible – Gen 32:2
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Gen 32:2

32:2 Mahanaim. See text note. Jacob may have had in mind both his camp and God’s camp, a heavenly shield and escort. As Bethel was the house of God and the gate of heaven (28:17), Mahanaim was God’s camp on earth. Mahanaim later served as a capital for Saul’s son Ishbosheth (2 Sam. 2:8) and as a refuge for David during Absalom’s rebellion (2 Sam. 17:24). Mahanaim was situated east of the Jordan River near the River Jabbok, but its precise location is uncertain.