Genesis 33:13 - Jacob said to him, “My lord knows that the children are tender, and that the flocks and herds with me have their young, and if they overdrive them one day, all the flocks will die.
Select Bible Verse
Filter Categories
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
What does "Genesis 33:13" mean?
This verse from Genesis 33:13 is Jacob explaining to his brother Esau why he can't travel as quickly as Esau suggests. Let's break it down:
"Jacob said to him, “My lord knows that the children are tender...": Jacob is referring to his young children. They are delicate and can't endure a fast-paced journey.
"...and that the flocks and herds with me have their young...": This means that Jacob's livestock are currently pregnant or have recently given birth. The mothers and their newborn animals are vulnerable and require a slower pace to avoid exhaustion or injury.
"...and if they overdrive them one day, all the flocks will die.": This is the key point. Jacob is saying that if he pushes his family and animals too hard for even just one day, the stress and exhaustion could be fatal, especially for the young and pregnant animals.
In essence, Jacob is politely declining Esau's offer to travel together at Esau's pace because he needs to prioritize the well-being of his vulnerable family and livestock. He is using a practical and considerate excuse to avoid conflict and maintain control over his own journey.
The verse highlights Jacob's growth and responsibility as a leader and patriarch. He's no longer the impulsive trickster he once was. He now understands the importance of careful planning and protecting those under his care. It also reveals a shrewdness in Jacob. He appeals to Esau's understanding of pastoral life, knowing Esau, a hunter, would be aware of the needs of young livestock.
Genesis 33:13 - Jacob said to him, “My lord knows that the children are tender, and that the flocks and herds with me have their young, and if they overdrive them one day, all the flocks will die.
What does "Genesis 33:13" mean?
This verse from Genesis 33:13 is Jacob explaining to his brother Esau why he can't travel as quickly as Esau suggests. Let's break it down:
"Jacob said to him, “My lord knows that the children are tender...": Jacob is referring to his young children. They are delicate and can't endure a fast-paced journey.
"...and that the flocks and herds with me have their young...": This means that Jacob's livestock are currently pregnant or have recently given birth. The mothers and their newborn animals are vulnerable and require a slower pace to avoid exhaustion or injury.
"...and if they overdrive them one day, all the flocks will die.": This is the key point. Jacob is saying that if he pushes his family and animals too hard for even just one day, the stress and exhaustion could be fatal, especially for the young and pregnant animals.
In essence, Jacob is politely declining Esau's offer to travel together at Esau's pace because he needs to prioritize the well-being of his vulnerable family and livestock. He is using a practical and considerate excuse to avoid conflict and maintain control over his own journey.
The verse highlights Jacob's growth and responsibility as a leader and patriarch. He's no longer the impulsive trickster he once was. He now understands the importance of careful planning and protecting those under his care. It also reveals a shrewdness in Jacob. He appeals to Esau's understanding of pastoral life, knowing Esau, a hunter, would be aware of the needs of young livestock.