Yaakov's Wrestling Match in Music/0

Yaakov's Wrestling Match in Music

Introduction

Yaakov's encounter with the "איש", described in Bereshit 32,  is one of the more enigmatic episodes in Torah.  Everything from the identity of the assailant to his purpose in attacking is unknown.  The scene is depicted often in the visual arts, but quite rarely in music.  One exception is Shlomo Carlebach's song, "ונשגב ה' לבדו", available here.  His rendition, both in his choice of lyrics and the accompanying tune, makes one question the message behind the original episode.

An Eschatological Story?

Carlebach's song combines two distinct verses which at first glance seem totally unconnected. The first line of the song comes from Yeshayahu 2:11,17 which speaks of the end of days when idolatry will be destroyed, the might will fall and Hashem alone will stand victorious.  The second describes Yaakov's lone stance and his struggle with the "איש".  Is there any relationship between the two?   Is it possible to read into Yaakov's struggle an eschatological message, relevant not just for Yaakov personally but for future generations as well?  Was the victory over the angel a victory for man or for God?

A Cheerful Struggle?

Carlebach's tune is very upbeat, and at first glance quite incongruous with a mysterious midnight attack.  The verses present Yaakov alone, fighting an unknown assailant, and even emerging lame from the struggle, making one wonder why Carlebach choose his tune rather than something more ominous.  Is there anything in the story which is uplifting or cheerful?  This, of course, depends on how one understands the message behind the encounter.  In fact, commentators have read into it everything from a threatening attack or punishment to encouragement and reassurance. See- for more.