And he said unto them, Know ye Laban the son of Nahor? And they said, We know him.

GENESIS 29:5KJV
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Genesis 29:5 (KJV)

What does Genesis 29:5 mean?

Genesis 29:5 records Jacob asking some local shepherds if they know Laban, the son of Nahor, and the shepherds answering that they do know him. This verse shows Jacob trying to find his relatives as he arrives in a new region.

Jacob is speaking to a group of shepherds near a well after traveling from his homeland. He is searching for his mother's family, specifically Laban, and uses the question to confirm he has reached the right area. The shepherds’ reply is brief but confirms that Laban is a known and recognized figure in that community.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 29:5

  • "Know" (יָדַע, yada‘): This word means more than just casual recognition; it often implies familiarity or relationship. Here, it shows Jacob is asking if the shepherds are personally acquainted with Laban, not just aware of his name.
  • "Son" (בֵּן, ben): In this context, "son" can also mean "descendant." Laban is actually the grandson of Nahor, but the term is used flexibly in Hebrew to indicate lineage.
  • "Said" (אָמַר, ’amar): This is the standard word for "said" or "spoke," used twice in the verse to show the back-and-forth conversation between Jacob and the shepherds.

Why Genesis 29:5 matters

  • This verse highlights Jacob’s careful approach in seeking out his family, showing respect and caution as he enters unfamiliar territory.
  • The mention of "Laban the son of Nahor" connects Jacob’s journey to the broader family story begun with Abraham and Nahor, reminding readers of the ongoing family relationships.
  • The shepherds’ recognition of Laban sets up the next part of the story, where Jacob will soon meet his uncle and begin a significant chapter of his life.

Where else these words appear

“Nahor” Hebrew H5152 · used in 17 verses

  • Genesis 11:22 And Serug lived thirty years, and begat Nahor:
  • Genesis 11:27 Now these are the generations of Terah: Terah begat Abram, Nahor, and Haran; and Haran begat Lot.
  • Genesis 24:15 And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah came out, who was born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham's brother, with her pitcher upon her shoulder.

“Laban” Hebrew H3837 · used in 47 verses

  • Genesis 24:29 And Rebekah had a brother, and his name was Laban: and Laban ran out unto the man, unto the well.
  • Genesis 29:25 And it came to pass, that in the morning, behold, it was Leah: and he said to Laban, What is this thou hast done unto me? did not I serve with thee for Rachel? wherefore then hast thou beguiled me?
  • Genesis 31:24 And God came to Laban the Syrian in a dream by night, and said unto him, Take heed that thou speak not to Jacob either good or bad.