Genesis 31:4, "Jacob sent and called Rachel and Leah to the field to his flock," means that Jacob wanted to speak privately and candidly with his wives, Rachel and Leah. Here's a breakdown of the verse and its significance:
"Jacob sent and called Rachel and Leah...": This implies that Jacob didn't simply walk up to them. He sent a messenger or called them out. The double action emphasizes the importance and deliberateness of his request.
"...to the field to his flock...": The location is significant for a few reasons:
Privacy: Taking them to the field ensured they could speak without being overheard by others in Laban's household (his father-in-law). This was crucial for discussing a sensitive topic.
Security: It's possible there was a feeling of unease or threat. A remote location might offer some advantage if their conversation was interrupted.
Appropriate venue: It was a working environment for Jacob. It was appropriate for him to summon his wives to him there to explain his plans to leave.
In the broader context of Genesis 31, Jacob was about to leave Laban and return to his homeland. He was aware of Laban's growing hostility and felt God's call to leave. Before doing so, he wanted to explain his plans to Rachel and Leah and seek their agreement, since they were bound to him and needed to follow him. This was a major decision impacting their lives, and he needed their cooperation.
Genesis 31:4, "Jacob sent and called Rachel and Leah to the field to his flock," means that Jacob wanted to speak privately and candidly with his wives, Rachel and Leah. Here's a breakdown of the verse and its significance:
"Jacob sent and called Rachel and Leah...": This implies that Jacob didn't simply walk up to them. He sent a messenger or called them out. The double action emphasizes the importance and deliberateness of his request.
"...to the field to his flock...": The location is significant for a few reasons:
Privacy: Taking them to the field ensured they could speak without being overheard by others in Laban's household (his father-in-law). This was crucial for discussing a sensitive topic.
Security: It's possible there was a feeling of unease or threat. A remote location might offer some advantage if their conversation was interrupted.
Appropriate venue: It was a working environment for Jacob. It was appropriate for him to summon his wives to him there to explain his plans to leave.
In the broader context of Genesis 31, Jacob was about to leave Laban and return to his homeland. He was aware of Laban's growing hostility and felt God's call to leave. Before doing so, he wanted to explain his plans to Rachel and Leah and seek their agreement, since they were bound to him and needed to follow him. This was a major decision impacting their lives, and he needed their cooperation.