Translations
Original
Notes
Laban added conditions to the treaty to try to justify himself. He used many words to hide his own dishonesty and make Jacob look unethical. He even claimed credit for the monument Jacob had built ("here is the pillar I have set up," 31:51). The women and children would be safer and better cared for with Jacob than they ever were with Laban.
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
Abraham: Patriarch, chosen by God to father His people Isaac: Son of Abraham; father of Jacob and Esau Israel: Patriarch, son of Isaac, father of twelve tribes Nahor: Son of Terah, Abraham's brother; father of Bethuel
Glossary
Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Ebla Tablets Genesis, Book of Nahor (Person) Nathanael Oath Patriarchs, Period of the
Topics
Contracts by Erecting a Heap of Stones Covenant of Men with Men by a Monument Covenant: Jacob and Laban Covenants: God often Called to Witness Laban: Pursues Jacob, Overtakes Him at Mount Gilead, and Covenants with Him Oath: Jacob Confirms the Covenant Between Him and Laban By Oaths used for Confirming Covenants Oaths: Expressions Used As by the Fear of Isaac