Translations
Original
Notes
Jacob, who preferred life at home (25:27), had spent 20 years enduring the hardships of outdoor life, which Esau had loved.
Jacob answered by accusing Laban of making false charges and humiliating him. Now Laban was the one who had to answer, because his charges were insulting and seemed to have no basis.
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.
Glossary
Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Ebla Tablets Genesis, Book of Laban (Person) Nathanael Patriarchs, Period of the Wages
Topics
Chiding: Isaac and Laban Chide Each Other Day: Artificial, the Time of the Sun's Continuance Above The Diligence: Jacob Dishonesty: Laban's Treatment of Jacob Drought: General Scriptures Concerning Father-In-Law: Unjust, Laban to Jacob Ingratitude: should be Met With: Faithfulness Laban: Pursues Jacob, Overtakes Him at Mount Gilead, and Covenants with Him Night: Eastern Shepherds Watched Over Their Flocks During Night: Frequently: Cold and Frosty Servants: Good: Jacob Shepherd: One Who Cares for Flocks of Sheep