Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Genesis - Chapter 31 - Verse 9

31:9
Thus God hath taken away the cattle of your father, and given them to me.

Meaning

In this verse, Jacob is speaking to his wives about the way God has blessed him with the livestock that originally belonged to their father, Laban. The verse highlights the belief in divine providence and how God is sovereign over all aspects of life, including material possessions. Jacob acknowledges that it was God who orchestrated the transfer of wealth from Laban to himself. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God for provision and recognizing His hand in all blessings. It also emphasizes the concept of stewardship, as Jacob acknowledges that the cattle now in his possession were ultimately a gift from God. Overall, this verse demonstrates the faith that Jacob had in God's ability to provide for him and his family, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Genesis, it is highlighted that God plays a direct role in the transfer of wealth from Laban to Jacob. The phrase "Thus God hath taken away" indicates that God is seen as the ultimate arbiter in the distribution of material possessions. This theological interpretation suggests that God is intimately involved in the lives of individuals and has the power to bless or take away earthly possessions based on His divine will. The word "cattle" in this context can represent material wealth and blessings from God. By studying the word "cattle" in its original Hebrew form, one can uncover deeper meanings and connotations that add layers of complexity to the verse. This word study can provide insights into the significance of livestock in ancient societies and shed light on the cultural and symbolic importance of cattle during that time period.

American Standard Version

Thus God hath taken away the cattle of your father, and given them to me.
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