Genesis 29:7

KJV

And he said, Lo, [it is] yet high day, neither [is it] time that the cattle should be gathered together: water ye the sheep, and go [and] feed [them].

KJV (with Strong's)

And he said {H559}, Lo {H2005}, it is yet high {H1419} day {H3117}, neither is it time {H6256} that the cattle {H4735} should be gathered together {H622}: water {H8248} ye the sheep {H6629}, and go {H3212} and feed {H7462} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

He said, "Look, there's still plenty of daylight left; and it isn't time to bring the animals home; so water the sheep; then go, and put them out to pasture."

Berean Standard Bible

“Look,” said Jacob, “it is still broad daylight; it is not yet time to gather the livestock. Water the sheep and take them back to pasture.”

American Standard Version

And he said, Lo, it is yet high day, neither is it time that the cattle should be gathered together: water ye the sheep, and go and feed them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In [Genesis 29:7](/genesis/29-7 "Jacob's Counsel to the Shepherds"), Jacob, having just arrived in Haran, observes shepherds gathered by a well with their flocks and questions their idleness, noting that it is "yet high day" and not the customary time to gather sheep for the night. He urges them to water their sheep and lead them to pasture, emphasizing diligence and the efficient use of available daylight for their pastoral duties.

### CONTEXT
[Genesis chapter 29](/chapter/bible_verses_kjv/genesis/29 "Jacob's Arrival in Haran") opens with Jacob's journey to Haran, fleeing his brother Esau's wrath and seeking a wife from his mother Rebekah's family, as instructed by Isaac. Upon reaching the land of the people of the east, he encounters a well where three flocks of sheep are gathered, awaiting water. A large stone, typically requiring several individuals to move, covers the well's mouth, a common practice to protect the water source from dust, debris, or unauthorized use. Jacob, an experienced shepherd himself, observes their inaction and, with a practical mindset, inquires why they are not actively watering and feeding their sheep, given the ample daylight remaining.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Jacob's words in [Genesis 29:7](/genesis/29-7 "Jacob's Counsel to the Shepherds") reveal his immediate assessment of the situation and a practical, industrious spirit. He notes, "Lo, it is yet high day, neither is it time that the cattle should be gathered together." The phrase "high day" (Hebrew: *'od hayyom gadol*, עוֹד הַיּוֹם גָּדוֹל) literally translates to "the day is yet great" or "there is still much of the day." This signifies that it is far from evening, the usual time when shepherds would gather their flocks for the night after watering them. Jacob's observation implies that the shepherds are idling when they should be actively engaged in their duties. His subsequent command, "water ye the sheep, and go and feed them," is not merely a suggestion but a direct instruction, highlighting the customary practice of watering sheep before leading them to pasture for the remainder of the day. This exchange immediately sets the stage for Jacob's character, demonstrating his initiative and practical wisdom, which he will soon display by [rolling the stone away from the well](/genesis/29-10 "Jacob rolls the stone from the well") himself.

* **Diligence and Productivity:** Jacob's questioning of the shepherds' idleness underscores an expectation of diligence and active engagement in one's responsibilities. He implies that there is ample time for work, urging them to make the most of the daylight hours rather than waiting passively.
* **Observation and Initiative:** As an outsider, Jacob quickly discerns the inefficiency of the situation. His direct and practical advice reflects a proactive character, willing to speak up and offer solutions, foreshadowing his later actions and his resourceful nature.
* **Timing and Opportunity:** The emphasis on "high day" highlights the importance of seizing the opportune moment for work. It encourages making the most of available time and resources, rather than procrastinating or waiting for others to act.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
* **Stewardship of Time:** The verse implicitly teaches the importance of wisely managing the time given, recognizing that each day offers opportunities for productive labor and fulfilling one's responsibilities.
* **Divine Providence and Human Diligence:** Even in seemingly mundane encounters, God's providence guides Jacob's steps. His diligence and initiative, though human traits, are often the means through which divine purposes unfold, leading him to Rachel.
* **Work Ethic in Scripture:** Jacob's counsel aligns with a broader biblical theme that values hard work, industry, and avoiding idleness, seen in proverbs and the examples of faithful servants.
* **Community and Mutual Aid:** While Jacob's initial query is critical, the larger context of the well often served as a communal gathering place, where cooperation (like moving the heavy stone) was expected, though here it is lacking.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Genesis 29:7](/genesis/29-7 "Jacob's Counsel to the Shepherds") offers timeless wisdom regarding our approach to daily tasks and responsibilities. It challenges us to consider whether we are making the most of the "day" we have, or if we are prone to procrastination or passive waiting. Just as Jacob urged the shepherds to actively water and feed their sheep, we are called to be diligent and proactive in our various callings—whether in work, family, or spiritual duties. This verse encourages a mindset of taking initiative and discerning the proper time for action, reminding us that there is often "yet high day" for us to engage purposefully with our tasks rather than deferring them.

### FAQ
**Why were the shepherds waiting if it was "high day"?**

Answer: The text doesn't explicitly state their reason for waiting, but the common practice was that the large stone covering the well's mouth required multiple shepherds to move it. It's implied they were waiting for all the flocks to gather, or perhaps for a specific shepherd (like Rachel) who had the authority or strength to initiate the watering, before they would collectively remove the stone. Jacob's question highlights the inefficiency and potential idleness of this collective waiting.

**What does "high day" signify in ancient pastoral life?**

Answer: "High day" (עוֹד הַיּוֹם גָּדוֹל) signifies that a significant portion of the day, likely the afternoon, was still remaining. It meant it was not yet evening, the time when flocks would be gathered for the night. For shepherds, this implied there was ample time for watering the sheep and then leading them back to pasture for further grazing before sunset, emphasizing that their current state of waiting was premature and unproductive.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Genesis 29:7](/genesis/29-7 "Jacob's Counsel to the Shepherds") primarily speaks to human diligence and practical wisdom, it can be seen through a Christ-centered lens as an illustration of the Lord's own purposeful and timely ministry. Jesus consistently operated with an awareness of "His hour" ([John 2:4](/john/2-4 "Jesus' Response to Mary at Cana")), diligently fulfilling His Father's will and working while it was "day" ([John 9:4](/john/9-4 "Jesus Heals the Blind Man")). He never procrastinated on His divine mission but actively engaged in teaching, healing, and redeeming, making the most of every moment. Believers, as followers of Christ, are likewise called to be diligent stewards of the time and gifts God has given them, actively participating in His kingdom work while it is "high day," before the night comes when no one can work.

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.