Genesis 30:36 - He set three days’ journey between himself and Jacob, and Jacob fed the rest of Laban’s flocks.

Generated Verse: Genesis 30:36

What does "Genesis 30:36" mean?


This verse in Genesis 30:36 highlights the deliberate separation and division of the flocks belonging to Laban and Jacob, setting the stage for Jacob's later prosperity. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

"He set three days' journey between himself and Jacob..." - This refers to Laban, Jacob's uncle and father-in-law. Laban separated the spotted and speckled livestock (that Jacob was to care for) from the solid-colored livestock (that Laban's sons would care for). By putting a three-day journey between these two groups of flocks, Laban aimed to prevent Jacob from easily cross-breeding or influencing the breeding of Laban's flocks. This was intended to ensure that Jacob's flock would remain relatively small and distinctive, while Laban's flocks would continue to thrive as before. It shows Laban's distrust of Jacob and his attempt to limit Jacob's potential to increase his wealth.

"...and Jacob fed the rest of Laban's flocks." - Despite the separation of the flocks based on their appearance, Jacob was still responsible for the care of the remaining (solid-colored) livestock belonging to Laban. This shows that even after the agreement to allow Jacob to keep the spotted and speckled animals, Jacob remained in Laban's service and had to continue working for him. This emphasizes the power dynamic between them, where Jacob was still under Laban's authority and had to carry out his assigned tasks.

In summary, the verse demonstrates Laban's attempt to control and limit Jacob's potential wealth by physically separating the flocks. It also highlights Jacob's continued obligation to Laban, even as he began to build his own flock. This sets the stage for the next part of the story, where Jacob uses his cleverness and faith to prosper despite Laban's attempts to restrain him.

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