They united with Jacob in recognizing God’s provision and resolved to follow His instructions.
“Surely all the wealth which God has taken away from our father belongs to us and our children; now then, do whatever God has said to you.” (v.16)
In this verse, Rachel and Leah speak to Jacob about the riches under their father Laban’s household. Laban resided in the region of Haran, an area of Mesopotamia located in what is now modern-day Turkey, where he had initially welcomed Abraham’s servant many years before (see commentary on Laban’s background). By the time of Genesis 31:16 (around 1900 BC), Laban had grown prosperous, but Rachel and Leah observed that the Lord had shifted much of that prosperity to Jacob. They affirm “Surely all the wealth which God has taken away from our father belongs to us” (v.16) to emphasize that their success and possessions truly come from God’s blessing rather than Laban’s favor.
Their words also reveal a pivotal change in attitude: both Rachel and Leah unite in supporting Jacob’s decision to leave Laban’s domain. Laban’s ties to pagan practices are hinted at elsewhere (he kept household idols), but his daughters now acknowledge the true Source behind any material benefits: “God has taken away [this wealth] from our father.” They conclude by urging Jacob to do as God commanded and return to the land of his forefathers, trusting that the Lord will continue to guide and protect them. This response by Rachel and Leah highlights God’s fulfillment of His promises to care for Jacob and his family, even when challenged by Laban’s craftiness.
Their admonition, “now then, do whatever God has said to you,” (v.16) underscores an important biblical theme: God’s guidance supersedes human convention, and He blesses those who respond to His leading in faith. Years later, Jesus would likewise underscore the priority of following God’s will, teaching that genuine obedience honors the One who provides and sustains (John 14:23).
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Genesis 31:16 meaning
“Surely all the wealth which God has taken away from our father belongs to us and our children; now then, do whatever God has said to you.” (v.16)
In this verse, Rachel and Leah speak to Jacob about the riches under their father Laban’s household. Laban resided in the region of Haran, an area of Mesopotamia located in what is now modern-day Turkey, where he had initially welcomed Abraham’s servant many years before (see commentary on Laban’s background). By the time of Genesis 31:16 (around 1900 BC), Laban had grown prosperous, but Rachel and Leah observed that the Lord had shifted much of that prosperity to Jacob. They affirm “Surely all the wealth which God has taken away from our father belongs to us” (v.16) to emphasize that their success and possessions truly come from God’s blessing rather than Laban’s favor.
Their words also reveal a pivotal change in attitude: both Rachel and Leah unite in supporting Jacob’s decision to leave Laban’s domain. Laban’s ties to pagan practices are hinted at elsewhere (he kept household idols), but his daughters now acknowledge the true Source behind any material benefits: “God has taken away [this wealth] from our father.” They conclude by urging Jacob to do as God commanded and return to the land of his forefathers, trusting that the Lord will continue to guide and protect them. This response by Rachel and Leah highlights God’s fulfillment of His promises to care for Jacob and his family, even when challenged by Laban’s craftiness.
Their admonition, “now then, do whatever God has said to you,” (v.16) underscores an important biblical theme: God’s guidance supersedes human convention, and He blesses those who respond to His leading in faith. Years later, Jesus would likewise underscore the priority of following God’s will, teaching that genuine obedience honors the One who provides and sustains (John 14:23).