Translations
Original
Notes
blessed me: God made Laban successful because Jacob was with him (see 22:18). Laban may have looked for signs (omens) to understand what was happening, or he may simply have noticed the results. Dark-colored sheep were uncommon (30:32). So, people considered having many of this color as a sign of God's blessing.
After working for fourteen years, Jacob asked Laban if he could return home. The two nomadic leaders negotiated politely but stayed cautious. Laban wanted more from Jacob, while Jacob wanted to earn his wages through selective breeding.
These chapters describe how God fulfilled his promise by greatly blessing Jacob with a family and possessions. God also disciplined Jacob, leaving him to struggle with Laban for many years. Laban was Jacob’s match in deception, and thus a means of correction.
The story of Jacob and Laban is similar to Israel's later stay in Egypt. Jacob struggled while serving his uncle but finally emerged with a large family (the founders of the 12 tribes) and great wealth. In Egypt, the Israelites suffered under their oppressors, but they also flourished, becoming a great nation of 12 large tribes and escaping with great riches.
People
Laban: Brother of Rebekah; father of Leah and Rachel
Glossary
Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Ebla Tablets Genesis, Book of Jacob Maid, Maiden Mandrake Nathanael Patriarchs, Period of the
Topics
Contracts for Cattle Laban: Jacob Becomes his Servant Rachel: Her Grief in Consequence of Her Sterility Servant: Hired: Re-Employed Servants: when Good: Bring God's Blessing Upon Their Masters