Spiritual Gems from the parsha

And Jacob sent messengers to Esau his brother (Gen. 32:4)

At that time, Jacob was fully ready for the Redemption. He had studied a great deal of Torah, served G-d with all his heart, and had observed the 613 commandments despite the many obstacles in Laban's house. For his part, he was prepared. Jacob sent messengers to check out the spiritual status of his brother Esau, to see if he was also ready for Moshiach. Unfortunately, they found that he had not repented of his evil ways. The Redemption was therefore delayed for thousands of years until our generation, when the nations of the world are now finally ready.

(Sichot Kodesh, Vayishlach, 5752)

"I have sojourned with Laban... and I have an ox, a donkey, flocks, servants and maids..."(Gen. 32:4,5)

In order to frighten Esau, Jacob told him that he had "an ox and a donkey." Why would Esau be afraid of a donkey? Jacob was referring to the donkey upon which Moshiach will ride. Moshiach will ride on a donkey because of his humility. He will also overcome all the nations of the world in a quiet way, without war, just as Jacob overcame Esau.

(Breishit Rabah)

These are the generations of Esau, who is Edom...these are the names of Esau's chieftains...chief Magdiel, chief Iram (Gen. 36:1, 40, 43)

The present exile is referred to as the exile of Edom for the Romans, who destroyed the Holy Temple marking the commencement of exile, descended from Edom. This exile is divided into two eras, governed by the above two kinds of leaders. Magdiel (lit., "he magnifies himself above every god"): In this first era, the Roman empire expanded throughout the world, seeking to overpower Judaism and make it difficult for Jews to observe Torah. Iram (from the Hebrew "to amass [treasures for the royal Moshiach]": This second era is the one close to the Messianic Era, when Rome will no longer oppress the Jewish people but will submit to holiness and even assist Moshiach. Rome will then realize the literal meaning of its name, related to the word "hitromemut" - exaltation.

(The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Vayishlach, 5751)