Genesis 29:5
And he said unto them, Know ye Laban the son of Nahor? And they said, We know him.
Genesis 29:5 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Genesis, Jacob asks his sons if they know Laban, the son of Nahor. Laban was Jacob's uncle, the brother of his mother, Rebekah. Laban played a significant role in Jacob's life as he was the father of Leah and Rachel, who became Jacob's wives. Laban is known for his deceitful practices, as he tricked Jacob into marrying Leah instead of Rachel, whom he loved. Laban also mistreated Jacob by changing his wages ten times while working for him. Despite these interactions, Laban and Jacob had a complex relationship that impacted the course of Jacob's life. This question from Jacob to his sons about Laban highlights the familial ties and the intricate web of relationships that are woven throughout the biblical narrative.
Theological Overview
The verse "And he said unto them, Know ye Laban the son of Nahor? And they said, We know him." found in Genesis 29:5, has a theological interpretation that emphasizes the importance of connections and relationships within the biblical narrative. Laban, being the son of Nahor, is a significant figure in the story of Jacob's journey to Haran. Laban plays a pivotal role in Jacob's life, as he becomes Jacob's father-in-law and the father of Rachel and Leah, Jacob's wives. This verse serves as a foreshadowing of the events that will unfold between Jacob and Laban, highlighting the intricate web of relationships that will shape Jacob's future. The word "know" in this context also carries a deeper meaning, suggesting a familiarity and recognition of Laban's significance in the grand scheme of Jacob's life. By exploring the theological and word studies of this verse, we gain insight into the interconnectedness of characters and events in the Bible, showcasing how each individual plays a crucial role in God's overarching plan.
Genesis 29:5 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he said unto them, Know ye Laban the son of Nahor? And they said, We know him.
World English Bible
He said to them, “Do you know Laban, the son of Nahor?” They said, “We know him.”
Douay-Rheims
And he asked them, saying: Know you Laban, the son of Nachor? They said: We know him.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then he sayd vnto them, Know ye Laban the sonne of Nahor? Who said, We know him.