Jacob Waiting for God's Mercy Against Esau's Sword and Famine

Midrash Tanchuma Buber, Toldot 5:2

Another interpretation: "Behold, the eye of the LORD <is upon those who fear Him>" (Psalm 33:18) — this is Jacob. "Upon those who wait for His steadfast love" (Psalm 33:18) — for Jacob waited for the Holy One, blessed be He. "To deliver their soul from death" (Psalm 33:19) — from the death <intended for him> by Esau, who said, "Let the days of [mourning for my father draw near, and I will kill my brother Jacob]" (Genesis 27:41). "To keep them alive in famine" (Psalm 33:19) — the one that came in his days.

Themes

Biblical References