Jacob did not go with Esau after their reunion for several reasons:

1. Lingering mistrust: Despite Esau's warm welcome, Jacob remained wary of his brother's intentions. He may have feared that Esau's goodwill could suddenly change1.

2. Desire for independence: Jacob likely wanted to maintain his autonomy and not become dependent on or indebted to Esau. By refusing Esau's offer to travel together, Jacob preserved his independence1.

3. Different lifestyles and values: Esau was known to be more impulsive and less God-fearing, while Jacob had developed a more cautious and religious lifestyle. Jacob may have wanted to avoid prolonged close contact with Esau's potentially negative influence2.

4. Protection of his family: Jacob cited the need to travel slowly for the sake of his children and livestock as a reason not to accompany Esau. This excuse allowed him to politely decline without offending his brother1.

5. Avoidance of competition: As twins with a history of rivalry, Jacob may have wanted to prevent rekindling their competitive relationship by maintaining distance1.

6. Deception: Jacob told Esau he would follow him to Seir, but instead went to Succoth and then Shechem. This suggests Jacob had no real intention of joining Esau and used deception to avoid confrontation2.

7. Divine plan: Jacob may have felt that God's plan for him did not involve settling near Esau, so he chose a different path to fulfill his destiny3.

In essence, Jacob's decision not to go with Esau reflects a complex mix of lingering mistrust, desire for independence, and a recognition of their fundamental differences, despite the apparent reconciliation.