Genesis 30:35

That very day Laban removed all the streaked or spotted male goats and every speckled or spotted female goat--every one that had any white on it--and every dark-colored lamb, and he placed them under the care of his sons.

Study Bible

That very day
This phrase emphasizes the immediacy and urgency of Laban's actions. In the Hebrew text, the word used is "בַּיּ֣וֹם הַה֔וּא" (bayyom hahu), which translates to "on that day." This suggests a decisive and perhaps premeditated action by Laban, indicating his intent to control the situation to his advantage. The immediacy underscores the tension and the unfolding drama between Laban and Jacob, highlighting the human tendency to manipulate circumstances for personal gain.

Laban removed
The Hebrew root for "removed" is "סוּר" (sur), which means to turn aside or take away. This action by Laban is significant as it reflects his cunning nature and desire to ensure that Jacob would not prosper at his expense. Historically, this act of removing the animals can be seen as a strategic move to prevent Jacob from benefiting from the agreement they had made, showcasing Laban's lack of integrity and trustworthiness.

all the streaked and spotted male goats
The description of the animals as "streaked and spotted" is crucial in understanding the narrative. In ancient Near Eastern culture, such markings were often seen as imperfections. The Hebrew words "עָקֹד" (aqod) for streaked and "נָקֹד" (naqod) for spotted indicate specific patterns that were less desirable. Laban's removal of these animals was a way to ensure that Jacob's flock would not increase through these marked animals, reflecting Laban's attempt to manipulate the outcome of their agreement.

and all the speckled and spotted female goats
The repetition of the terms "speckled and spotted" for the female goats reinforces the thoroughness of Laban's actions. The Hebrew word for speckled is "טָלוּא" (talu), which adds another layer of specificity to the description of the animals. This meticulous selection process by Laban highlights his determination to limit Jacob's success, illustrating the broader theme of human deceit and the struggle for prosperity.

every one that had white on it
The mention of "white" in the animals is significant. In Hebrew, "לָבָן" (lavan) means white, which is ironically also Laban's name. This detail may symbolize purity or innocence, contrasting with Laban's deceptive nature. By removing even those with white markings, Laban ensures that Jacob's potential for growth is minimized, further emphasizing the lengths to which Laban would go to protect his own interests.

and every dark-colored lamb
The term "dark-colored" in Hebrew is "שָׁחֹם" (shachom), which refers to a darker hue. In the context of the narrative, the removal of these lambs signifies Laban's comprehensive strategy to deprive Jacob of any advantage. This action reflects the broader biblical theme of the struggle between light and darkness, good and evil, and the moral complexities within human relationships.

and he placed them under the care of his sons
By entrusting the removed animals to his sons, Laban ensures that they are kept separate from Jacob's flock. This act of delegation indicates a familial alliance against Jacob, highlighting the theme of familial loyalty and division. The Hebrew word for "placed" is "נָתַן" (natan), meaning to give or set, which underscores Laban's control over the situation. This decision reflects the broader biblical narrative of family dynamics and the often complicated relationships between kin.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Laban
Laban is the father-in-law of Jacob and a key figure in Jacob's life. He is known for his cunning and manipulative behavior, as seen in his dealings with Jacob.

2. Jacob
Jacob is the grandson of Abraham and the son of Isaac. He is known for his perseverance and faith in God's promises, despite facing numerous challenges and deceptions.

3. Laban's Sons
They are tasked with overseeing the flock that Laban separates, indicating a level of trust Laban places in them to maintain his interests.

4. The Flock
The animals mentioned (streaked, spotted, speckled goats, and dark-colored lambs) are significant as they become the basis of Jacob's wealth and God's blessing upon him.

5. The Event of Separation
This event marks a pivotal moment in Jacob's life, where Laban attempts to limit Jacob's prosperity by removing the animals that would have been Jacob's wages.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Adversity
Despite human manipulation, God's plans prevail. Laban's actions were meant to hinder Jacob, but God used them to bless him.

Integrity in Work
Jacob's response to Laban's deceit was not to retaliate but to work diligently and trust in God's provision. This teaches us to maintain integrity and trust God in our work environments.

Faith and Patience
Jacob's account encourages believers to have faith and patience, knowing that God's timing and methods are perfect, even when circumstances seem unfavorable.

God's Faithfulness
The account demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises. Just as God was faithful to Jacob, He remains faithful to His promises to us.

The Role of Family
The involvement of Laban's sons shows the importance of family dynamics and the influence they can have on one's life and decisions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Laban's action in Genesis 30:35 reflect human attempts to control outcomes, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives when facing manipulation or deceit?

2. In what ways does Jacob's response to Laban's actions demonstrate trust in God, and how can we emulate this trust in our daily challenges?

3. How does the separation of the flock in Genesis 30:35 relate to the concept of being set apart as God's people, as seen in other parts of Scripture?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jacob's perseverance and integrity in his work, and how can these lessons be applied in our professional and personal lives?

5. How does the account of Jacob and Laban encourage us to rely on God's faithfulness, and what are some practical ways we can remind ourselves of God's promises in times of uncertainty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 31
This chapter continues the account, showing how God blesses Jacob despite Laban's attempts to deceive him. It highlights God's faithfulness and provision.

Exodus 12
The concept of separation and distinction is echoed in the Passover, where God distinguishes between the Israelites and Egyptians, showing His protective care for His people.

Psalm 23
The imagery of shepherding and care for the flock can be related to God's role as the Good Shepherd, providing and caring for His people.