Jacob and the Angel

2005

oil on canvas

48" X 36"

Any intelligent and sane person will struggle with what they believe in at some point in their lives. Many people struggle quite often.

The Biblical character of Jacob is a strange bird. For the first half of his life, Jacob is a deceitful man. He cheats his older brother Essau out of his inheritance by pretending to be Essau at their father Isaac's death bed. Isaac believing he is talking to Essau hands the reigns over to Jacob, who undeservingly inherits Isaacs wealth. After some time passes, Jacob realizes he must right this wrong. He crosses the river Jabbok and sends his people and treasures away so he can prepare for this meeting with his brother. During the night on the banks of the river he is met with an angel, who begins to wrestle with him. This continues throughout the night, neither getting the best until the angel injures Jacob's hip. The angel changes Jacob's name to Israel.

So, the symbolism is... Jacob is wrestling with his belief, his faith in God. Ever happen to you?

It can happen any time, any place. In this case right outside of my house.