Genesis 29:14

KJV

And Laban said to him, Surely thou [art] my bone and my flesh. And he abode with him the space of a month.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Laban {H3837} said {H559} to him, Surely {H389} thou art my bone {H6106} and my flesh {H1320}. And he abode {H3427} with him the space {H3117} of a month {H2320}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Lavan said to him, "You are indeed my own flesh and blood." After Ya'akov had stayed with him for a whole month,

Berean Standard Bible

Then Laban declared, “You are indeed my own flesh and blood.” After Jacob had stayed with him a month,

American Standard Version

And Laban said to him, Surely thou art my bone and my flesh. And he abode with him the space of a month.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 29:14 records Laban's immediate and familial recognition of Jacob, declaring him "my bone and my flesh," an ancient idiom signifying deep kinship and shared identity. This warm welcome provided Jacob with an initial, temporary refuge for a month, establishing the groundwork for his extended residence in Haran and demonstrating God's providential care for him following his flight from Esau.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Jacob's dramatic arrival in Haran, where he encounters his cousin Rachel at a well and, in a display of strength and eagerness, rolls the stone from the well's mouth to water her flock ([Genesis 29:10](/genesis/29-10 "Jacob Meets Rachel at the Well")). Rachel, in turn, rushes to inform her father, Laban, of Jacob's arrival and their familial connection. Laban's subsequent declaration and hospitality in verse 14 serve as the initial response to this reunion, setting the stage for Jacob's long and often tumultuous sojourn in Paddan-Aram, which will involve marriage, the birth of his children, and significant conflict with Laban over wages and flocks, ultimately leading to Jacob's departure ([Genesis 31](/genesis/31 "Jacob Flees from Laban")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, kinship ties were paramount, forming the bedrock of social structure, identity, and security. The phrase "bone and flesh" was a powerful and common idiom to express the closest possible blood relationship and mutual belonging, often implying obligations of hospitality, protection, and support. When a kinsman arrived, especially after a long journey, immediate welcome and provision were expected. The "space of a month" served as a customary period of initial hospitality and assessment, during which the host and guest would evaluate character, needs, and potential for a more permanent arrangement, such as employment or marriage, before formalizing any long-term agreements. This practice reflects the importance of honor, reputation, and reciprocal duties within the patriarchal society.

* **Key Themes:** Genesis 29:14 contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis. It highlights the theme of **God's Providence and Faithfulness**, demonstrating how God guides Jacob to his kinsmen, providing refuge despite Jacob's vulnerable state as a fugitive from Esau's wrath ([Genesis 27:41-45](/genesis/27-41-45 "Esau's Hatred and Rebekah's Counsel")). The verse also introduces the theme of **Kinship and Family Dynamics**, which will be central to Jacob's narrative, showcasing both the blessings and complexities inherent in familial relationships, especially as the narrative unfolds to reveal Laban's deceptive nature ([Genesis 29:20-30](/genesis/29-20-30 "Jacob's Marriages to Leah and Rachel")). Furthermore, it subtly touches upon the theme of **Hospitality and Covenant Obligations**, as Laban's initial welcome, though later tainted, aligns with the societal expectation of providing shelter and care to one's own.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **bone (Hebrew, _ʻetsem'_):** H6106, from עָצַם; a bone (as strong); by extension, the body; figuratively, the substance, i.e. (as pron.) selfsame. In this context, "bone" signifies the very core or essence of a person's physical being and, by extension, their fundamental identity and shared lineage. It speaks to an undeniable, intrinsic connection.
* **flesh (Hebrew, _bâsâr'_):** H1320, from בָּשַׂר; flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person. "Flesh" complements "bone" to complete the picture of a shared physical and biological heritage. Together, "bone and flesh" form a powerful merism, emphasizing the totality of a person's being and their absolute consanguinity.
* **abode (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** H3427, a primitive root; properly, to sit down; by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle. This verb denotes a period of dwelling or settling, indicating that Jacob did not merely visit but took up residence. The duration "the space of a month" suggests a temporary, probationary stay before a more permanent arrangement was established, reflecting ancient customs of hospitality and assessment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Laban said to him, Surely thou art my bone and my flesh."**: This opening declaration from Laban is a profound statement of recognition and kinship. The adverb "Surely" (Hebrew, _ʼak'_) emphasizes the certainty and conviction of Laban's assertion. By calling Jacob "my bone and my flesh," Laban employs a powerful ancient Near Eastern idiom that signifies the closest possible blood relationship. It is a declaration of consanguinity, meaning "you are truly my family," "you are one of us," or "you are intrinsically connected to me by blood." This phrase communicates immediate acceptance, a shared identity, and implies the social and moral obligations of care and protection that come with such a deep familial bond.
* **"And he abode with him the space of a month."**: This second clause describes Jacob's immediate action following Laban's welcome. Jacob "abode" or "dwelt" with Laban for a period of "a month." This duration was a common cultural practice for initial hospitality, allowing both host and guest to assess the situation, understand each other's character, and determine the feasibility of a longer-term arrangement, such as employment or a more permanent residency. This temporary stay provided Jacob with essential refuge and a period of rest after his arduous journey, demonstrating God's immediate provision for him.

#### Literary Devices
The most prominent literary device in this verse is **Idiom**. The phrase "my bone and my flesh" is a powerful ancient Near Eastern idiom for the closest possible blood relationship and shared identity. It is used elsewhere in scripture to denote deep kinship, as when Adam recognizes Eve as "bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh" ([Genesis 2:23](/genesis/2-23 "Adam's Recognition of Eve")), or when the tribes of Israel affirm their loyalty to David by saying, "Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh" ([2 Samuel 5:1](/2_samuel/5-1 "Israel's Recognition of David")). This idiom emphasizes the profound importance of familial ties in patriarchal society. Additionally, there is subtle **Foreshadowing** in the brevity of the "month-long" initial stay. While the welcome is warm, the subsequent narrative reveals the complex and often deceptive relationship that will unfold between Jacob and Laban, suggesting that this initial period of assessment will not lead to a simple, straightforward kinship, but one fraught with tension and manipulation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 29:14 underscores the enduring significance of family and kinship within God's redemptive plan, even amidst human brokenness. Laban's declaration of Jacob as "my bone and my flesh" highlights the foundational role of bloodlines in the covenant narrative, as God's promises to Abraham were passed down through specific family lines. This initial welcome, despite the future deceptions, serves as a testament to God's faithful providence, guiding Jacob to a place of refuge and family, fulfilling His promise to be with him and watch over him. It reminds us that God often works through human relationships, even imperfect ones, to accomplish His divine purposes.

* [Genesis 2:23](/genesis/2-23 "Adam's Recognition of Eve"): Adam's declaration upon seeing Eve, "This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh," establishes the phrase as foundational for the closest human relationship, marriage, and shared humanity.
* [Judges 9:2](/judges/9-2 "Abimelech's Appeal to Kinship"): Abimelech uses a similar appeal to kinship, "Remember also that I am your bone and your flesh," to persuade the Shechemites to follow him, demonstrating the political and social power of such an idiom.
* [Genesis 28:15](/genesis/28-15 "God's Promise to Jacob at Bethel"): God promises Jacob, "And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land." Laban's initial welcome is a tangible manifestation of God's immediate care and provision for Jacob.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 29:14 offers profound insights into the human need for belonging and the enduring importance of family and community. Laban's immediate recognition of Jacob as "my bone and my flesh" speaks to a deep, innate desire within us to be accepted, to find our place within a larger group, and to experience the security that comes from shared identity. In a world that often promotes individualism and can feel increasingly fragmented, this verse calls us to actively cultivate and cherish our connections, particularly within our families and the broader community of faith. It reminds us of the biblical imperative for hospitality, urging us to open our homes and hearts to those in need, offering refuge and support, especially to fellow believers who are "bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh" in Christ. However, the subsequent narrative with Laban also serves as a crucial reminder that while initial welcomes are vital, true character and trustworthiness are revealed over time, prompting us to exercise discernment and wisdom even within trusted relationships, just as Jacob learned through his challenging experiences with Laban's deceptions.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do you experience the "bone and flesh" bond within your own family or spiritual community?**
* **How can we better practice biblical hospitality, offering genuine welcome and support to those who are new or in need of refuge?**
* **What lessons can we learn from the initial warmth and subsequent complexities of Jacob and Laban's relationship regarding discernment in our own relationships?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Laban calling Jacob "my bone and my flesh"?**

Answer: The phrase "my bone and my flesh" is a powerful and ancient Near Eastern idiom signifying the closest possible blood relationship and shared identity. It is a declaration of consanguinity, meaning "you are truly my family," "you are one of us," or "you are intrinsically connected to me by blood." This expression emphasizes deep kinship, mutual belonging, and often implies obligations of care and protection. It highlights Laban's immediate recognition of Jacob as a genuine kinsman, deserving of hospitality and inclusion within his household, setting the stage for Jacob's extended stay in Haran.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jacob found temporary refuge and kinship with Laban, a relationship that ultimately proved imperfect and fraught with deception, the ultimate and perfect belonging is found in Christ. He is our true "bone and flesh," having fully identified with humanity by taking on human form, being "made in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Christ's Humiliation")). Through His incarnation, Christ became truly one of us, sharing in our humanity so that He might redeem us from sin and death ([Hebrews 2:14-17](/hebrews/2-14-17 "Christ's Shared Humanity and Priesthood")). In Him, we are not merely welcomed for a month, but are adopted into God's eternal family, becoming "fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God" ([Ephesians 2:19](/ephesians/2-19 "Believers as Fellow Citizens")). This spiritual kinship in Christ far surpasses any earthly bond, offering an everlasting home, unwavering provision, and perfect faithfulness, fulfilling God's promise to be with His people in a way that no human relationship, like that between Jacob and Laban, ever could.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Samuel 19:12

Ye [are] my brethren, ye [are] my bones and my flesh: wherefore then are ye the last to bring back the king?

2 Samuel 19:13

And say ye to Amasa, [Art] thou not of my bone, and of my flesh? God do so to me, and more also, if thou be not captain of the host before me continually in the room of Joab.

Judges 9:2

Speak, I pray you, in the ears of all the men of Shechem, Whether [is] better for you, either that all the sons of Jerubbaal, [which are] threescore and ten persons, reign over you, or that one reign over you? remember also that I [am] your bone and your flesh.

Genesis 2:23

And Adam said, This [is] now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.

2 Samuel 5:1

¶ Then came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, Behold, we [are] thy bone and thy flesh.

Genesis 29:12

And Jacob told Rachel that he [was] her father's brother, and that he [was] Rebekah's son: and she ran and told her father.

Micah 7:5

Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide: keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom.