Genesis 31:21 - So he fled with all that he had. He rose up, passed over the River, and set his face toward the mountain of Gilead.

Generated Verse: Genesis 31:21

What does "Genesis 31:21" mean?


This verse, Genesis 31:21, is part of the story of Jacob fleeing from his father-in-law, Laban. Let's break it down:

"So he fled with all that he had": This indicates that Jacob secretly left Laban's household, taking with him his wives (Leah and Rachel), his children, his livestock, and all the possessions he had accumulated during his time working for Laban. The "all that he had" emphasizes the extent of his wealth and the significance of his departure. He left without Laban's knowledge or consent, making it a clandestine escape.

"He rose up, passed over the River": This refers to Jacob getting up to leave and crossing a significant river, likely the Euphrates River (though the text doesn't specifically name it). Crossing the river marked a clear division between Laban's territory in Mesopotamia and the direction Jacob was headed. It was a physical and symbolic separation from Laban.

"and set his face toward the mountain of Gilead": "Setting his face" is an idiom meaning he firmly and resolutely headed toward the mountainous region of Gilead. Gilead was located east of the Jordan River in the region that would later be associated with the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and half of Manasseh. Gilead held significance because it was in the direction of his ancestral homeland, Canaan. He was determined to return to the land promised to his grandfather Abraham.

In summary, this verse describes Jacob's decisive act of escaping from Laban and resolutely journeying towards the land of Canaan and the fulfillment of God's promises. It highlights the urgency and determination of his flight.

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