Genesis 32:30

New English Translation

³⁰So Jacob named the place Peniel,^[a] explaining,^[b] “Certainly^[c] I have seen God face to face^[d] and have survived.”^[e]

Genesis 32:30 sn The name Peniel means “face of God.” Since Jacob saw God face-to-face here, the name is appropriate.
Genesis 32:30 tn The word “explaining” is supplied in the translation for stylistic reasons.
Genesis 32:30 tn Or “because.”
Genesis 32:30 sn I have seen God face-to-face. See the note on the name “Peniel” earlier in the verse.
Genesis 32:30 tn Heb “and my soul [= life] has been preserved.”sn I have survived. It was commonly understood that no one could see God and live (Gen 48:16; Exod 19:21; 24:10; Judg 6:11, 22). On the surface Jacob seems to be saying that he saw God and survived. But the statement may have a double meaning, in light of his prayer for deliverance in v. 11. Jacob recognizes that he has survived his encounter with God and that his safety has now been guaranteed.

New English Translation (NET)