This twenty years have I been with thee; thy ewes and thy she goats have not cast their young, and the rams of thy flock have I not eaten.

GENESIS 31:38KJV
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Genesis 31:38 (KJV)

What does Genesis 31:38 mean?

Genesis 31:38 records Jacob reminding Laban that for twenty years he faithfully cared for Laban’s sheep and goats, never losing any young animals to miscarriage and never eating any of Laban’s rams. Jacob is emphasizing his honesty and careful stewardship during his long service.

In this verse, Jacob is speaking directly to his father-in-law Laban during a confrontation about how Laban has treated him. Jacob points out that he has worked for Laban for twenty years, taking care of his flocks with integrity. This statement is part of Jacob’s larger defense, showing that he did not take advantage of Laban’s property and acted with responsibility and respect.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 31:38

  • "Twenty" (עֶשְׂרִים, ‘esrim) and "years" (שָׁנָה, shanah): Jacob is specific about the length of his service, underlining the long-term trust and commitment involved.
  • "Ewes" (רָחֵל, raḥel) and "goats" (עֵז, ‘ez): These words refer to the female sheep and goats, the main source of offspring in the flock, highlighting Jacob’s careful management of Laban’s breeding animals.
  • "Cast their young" (שָׁכַל, shakol): This phrase means to miscarry or lose young, so Jacob is saying none of Laban’s animals miscarried under his care, showing his diligence.
  • "Rams" (אַיִל, ayil) and "flock" (צֹאן, tson): Jacob specifies he did not eat any of the male breeding animals, which were valuable for the future of the flock, stressing his honesty.
  • "Eaten" (אָכַל, akhal): Jacob insists he never took for himself what belonged to Laban, reinforcing his integrity.

Why Genesis 31:38 matters

  • This verse clears up any suspicion that Jacob might have taken advantage of Laban’s property; Jacob is making it clear he acted honorably.
  • The emphasis on the health and safety of the animals shows Jacob’s skill and care as a shepherd, which was a highly valued trait in his culture.
  • In the wider story, this verse is part of Jacob’s broader argument that he deserves fair treatment from Laban, setting the stage for their eventual separation and God’s blessing on Jacob.