Genesis 29:21

Authorized King James Version

And Jacob said unto Laban, Give me my wife, for my days are fulfilled, that I may go in unto her.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֹּ֨אמֶר
said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
יַֽעֲקֹ֤ב
And Jacob
jaakob, the israelitish patriarch
#3
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#4
לָבָן֙
unto Laban
laban, a place in the desert
#5
הָבָ֣ה
Give
to give (whether literal or figurative); generally, to put; imperatively (reflexive) come
#6
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
אִשְׁתִּ֔י
me my wife
a woman
#8
כִּ֥י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#9
מָֽלְא֖וּ
are fulfilled
to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively)
#10
יָמָ֑י
for my days
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#11
וְאָב֖וֹאָה
that I may go in
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#12
אֵלֶֽיהָ׃
near, with or among; often in general, to

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Genesis.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the tribal and clan-based society of the ancient Near East. The author writes to address the foundational narrative for Israel's identity and relationship with God, making the emphasis on creation and providence particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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