Genesis 32:20

20. I will appease him Here is a notable instance of metaphorical language . Literally, he says: “I will cover his face with the present which goes before me, and afterwards I will see his face; perhaps he will lift up my face . The word cover ( כפר ) is that so often used afterwards in connexion with expiation and atonement for sin . He would cover Esau’s face, so that he whom he had sinned against might cease to see the transgressions of the past . Those past offences hidden, he hopes himself to look on Esau’s face, as on one so far appeased as not to turn away from him, and refuse to see him . Then he hopes that there will come the further favour of Esau condescending to lift up his (Jacob’s) face the downcast face of one prostrate in humility and contrition before him.