Genesis 29:15

Authorized King James Version

And Laban said unto Jacob, Because thou art my brother, shouldest thou therefore serve me for nought? tell me, what shall thy wages be?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֹּ֤אמֶר
said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
לָבָן֙
And Laban
laban, a place in the desert
#3
לְיַֽעֲקֹ֔ב
unto Jacob
jaakob, the israelitish patriarch
#4
הֲכִֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#5
אָחִ֣י
Because thou art my brother
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#6
אַ֔תָּה
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#7
וַֽעֲבַדְתַּ֖נִי
shouldest thou therefore serve
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
#8
חִנָּ֑ם
me for nought
gratis, i.e., devoid of cost, reason or advantage
#9
הַגִּ֥ידָה
tell
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
#10
לִּ֖י
H0
#11
מַה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#12
מַּשְׂכֻּרְתֶּֽךָ׃
me what shall thy wages
wages or a reward

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine revelation reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the patriarchal period (c. 2000-1500 BCE) and primeval history provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The ancient Near Eastern world with its creation myths, flood narratives, and patriarchal social structures provided the cultural backdrop against which God's revelation stands in stark contrast. The ancient Near Eastern cosmology and patriarchal society would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Ancient Near Eastern creation texts like Enuma Elish provide comparative context for understanding Genesis's unique theological perspective.

Questions for Reflection

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