Genesis 31:17

KJV

¶ Then Jacob rose up, and set his sons and his wives upon camels;

KJV (with Strong's)

Then Jacob {H3290} rose up {H6965}, and set {H5375} his sons {H1121} and his wives {H802} upon camels {H1581};

Complete Jewish Bible

Then Ya'akov got up, put his sons and wives on the camels,

Berean Standard Bible

Then Jacob got up and put his children and his wives on camels,

American Standard Version

Then Jacob rose up, and set his sons and his wives upon the camels;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 31:17 marks the decisive moment Jacob initiates his departure from Laban’s household, preparing his extensive family—his sons and his wives—by setting them upon camels for the arduous journey back to the promised land of Canaan, in direct obedience to God’s recent command and with the full consent of his household. This action signifies the tangible beginning of a new chapter in Jacob's life, moving him closer to the fulfillment of God's covenant promises.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the immediate action following a period of intense relational strain and divine intervention. Prior to this, Laban's sons had openly expressed resentment towards Jacob's prosperity, attributing it to their father's diminished wealth ([Genesis 31:1-2](/genesis/31-1-2 "Laban's Sons' Resentment Towards Jacob")). Amidst this growing hostility, God directly commanded Jacob to "[return unto the land of thy fathers, and to thy kindred; and I will be with thee](/genesis/31-3 "God Commands Jacob to Return to Canaan")" ([Genesis 31:3](/genesis/31-3 "God's Command to Jacob")). Jacob then prudently consulted with Leah and Rachel, who, having suffered from Laban's deceit and recognizing God's hand in Jacob's prosperity, wholeheartedly agreed to the departure ([Genesis 31:4-16](/genesis/31-4-16 "Jacob's Discussion with His Wives and Their Agreement")). Thus, Genesis 31:17 is not an impulsive act but the calculated, obedient execution of a divinely ordained plan, supported by his family, setting the stage for the dramatic flight from Laban and the subsequent confrontation with Esau.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jacob's journey takes place within the patriarchal period, where extended families functioned as economic and social units, and lineage was paramount for covenantal promises. The practice of polygamy, as seen in Jacob's two wives and two concubines, was common, though often a source of familial tension. Travel in this era, especially long distances across semi-arid regions, relied heavily on domesticated animals like camels, which were indispensable for carrying people, goods, and provisions. The concept of "returning to the land of thy fathers" was deeply significant, emphasizing ancestral ties and God's promise of a specific land to Abraham's descendants. Furthermore, the cultural norms of hospitality and familial obligation, which Laban repeatedly exploited, underscore the necessity of Jacob's strategic, if not secretive, departure to secure his family and possessions from further manipulation.

* **Key Themes:** Genesis 31:17 contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Guidance and Obedience**, as Jacob's departure is a direct response to God's command, echoing the call of Abraham to leave his homeland in [Genesis 12:1](/genesis/12-1 "The Call of Abram"). Secondly, it underscores **God's Faithfulness to His Covenant Promises**, particularly the promise to be with Jacob and bring him back to the land, first given at Bethel in [Genesis 28:15](/genesis/28-15 "God's Promise to Jacob at Bethel") and reiterated in [Genesis 31:3](/genesis/31-3 "God's Command to Jacob"). Thirdly, the emphasis on "his sons and his wives" reinforces the **Importance of Family and Progeny** in God's redemptive plan, as these individuals represent the nascent nation of Israel. Finally, this verse marks a significant **Transition and New Beginning** for Jacob, moving him from a period of servitude and conflict with Laban towards his destiny in Canaan, a journey fraught with challenges but ultimately guided by divine providence.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **rose up (Hebrew, _qûwm'_):** From H6965, a primitive root meaning "to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)." In this context, it signifies more than merely standing; it denotes a decisive, resolute action, the initiation of a significant undertaking. Jacob's "rising up" indicates his immediate and purposeful response to God's command, demonstrating readiness and determination.
* **set (Hebrew, _nâsâʼ'_):** From H5375, a primitive root meaning "to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative." Here, it specifically means "to set upon" or "to cause to ride." This word vividly portrays Jacob's practical and active role in preparing his family for the journey, physically placing them onto the beasts of burden. It implies the effort and responsibility he undertook for his household's welfare.
* **camels (Hebrew, _gâmâl'_):** From H1581, apparently from a root (gāmal) in the sense of labor or burden-bearing. A "camel" is an animal specifically suited for long-distance travel and carrying heavy loads in arid environments. Its mention grounds the narrative in the practical realities of ancient travel, highlighting the logistical scale of Jacob's move and the essential role these animals played in the nomadic life of the patriarchs.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then Jacob rose up,"**: This phrase signifies Jacob's immediate and decisive action. Following God's explicit command to return to Canaan and his wives' agreement, Jacob does not hesitate. The verb "rose up" (Hebrew _qûwm_) implies a purposeful and determined initiation of the journey, marking the tangible beginning of his departure. It underscores his obedience and readiness to act upon divine instruction.
* **"and set his sons and his wives":** This clause highlights Jacob's comprehensive responsibility for his entire family unit. The mention of "sons and wives" (which includes Leah, Rachel, Bilhah, and Zilpah, and all their children) emphasizes that this was a collective endeavor, involving the future progenitors of the twelve tribes of Israel. Jacob, as the patriarch, meticulously ensures that every member of his extensive household is prepared and accounted for, demonstrating his leadership and care.
* **"upon camels;":** This detail specifies the mode of transport for the journey. Camels were the primary means of long-distance travel and cargo conveyance in the ancient Near East, especially across challenging terrain. This practical detail underscores the immense logistical effort involved in moving such a large family and their vast possessions. It grounds the narrative in the realities of the time, painting a picture of a well-organized, albeit clandestine, exodus.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and impact. The use of strong **Action Verbs** like "rose up" (_qûwm_) and "set" (_nâsâʼ_) immediately conveys Jacob's decisiveness and the tangible commencement of his journey. These verbs are not passive but active, indicating purposeful movement and preparation. Furthermore, the phrase "his sons and his wives" functions as a **Merism** (or a form of **Synecdoche**), where two distinct parts are named to represent the whole. By mentioning "sons" and "wives," the text encompasses Jacob's entire household, including his concubines and all his children, emphasizing the completeness of his family's involvement in this momentous transition. Finally, the "camels" themselves can be seen as **Symbolism**, representing not only the practical means of travel but also the burdens, the nomadic lifestyle, and the journey of faith that Jacob and his family were undertaking as they moved towards the fulfillment of God's promises in the promised land.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jacob's decisive action in Genesis 31:17 serves as a powerful testament to the themes of divine guidance and human obedience. His immediate preparation to leave Laban's household is a direct response to God's command, illustrating that true faith involves not just hearing God's word but acting upon it, even when the path ahead is uncertain or fraught with potential conflict. This moment reinforces God's active involvement in the lives of His covenant people, orchestrating events to bring about His purposes. It also highlights the importance of family in God's redemptive plan, as the entire household participates in this journey of faith, carrying forward the lineage through which the covenant promises would ultimately be fulfilled. This departure is a crucial step in the unfolding narrative of God's faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, moving the patriarch closer to his destiny in the promised land.

* [Genesis 12:1](/genesis/12-1 "The Call of Abram")
* [Genesis 28:15](/genesis/28-15 "God's Promise to Jacob at Bethel")
* [Genesis 31:3](/genesis/31-3 "God's Command to Jacob to Return")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 31:17 offers profound insights for contemporary believers regarding the nature of faith and obedience. Jacob's prompt and comprehensive action, following a clear divine directive and the consensus of his family, teaches us the importance of decisive obedience when God's will becomes evident. In our own lives, when we perceive God calling us to a new season, a difficult transition, or a specific act of faith, this verse encourages us to "rise up" and act with purpose, rather than procrastinating or succumbing to fear. Jacob's meticulous preparation of his "sons and his wives upon camels" also reminds us to consider the practical implications of our obedience, involving our families and ensuring their well-being in our walk of faith. Just as Jacob's journey was a step towards his destiny, our acts of obedience, however challenging, are often pivotal moments that lead us closer to God's ultimate purposes for our lives and the lives of those connected to us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I discern God's direction for significant life changes, and what steps do I take to confirm His will?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be delaying obedience to a clear command or prompting from God?**
* **How can I better involve my family in my walk of faith and in responding to God's callings?**
* **What practical preparations are necessary when embarking on a "journey" of faith, whether spiritual or physical?**

### FAQ
**Why did Jacob leave Laban secretly?**

Answer: Jacob's departure from Laban was indeed clandestine, as detailed in [Genesis 31:20-21](/genesis/31-20-21 "Jacob's Secret Departure from Laban"). This secrecy was a prudent and necessary measure given Laban's manipulative and deceitful character. Laban had repeatedly changed Jacob's wages (ten times, according to [Genesis 31:7](/genesis/31-7 "Laban's Deception of Jacob")), and his sons harbored resentment towards Jacob's prosperity, viewing it as a loss to their family. God had commanded Jacob to return to Canaan ([Genesis 31:3](/genesis/31-3 "God's Command to Jacob")), but a direct, open departure would likely have been met with resistance, attempts to retain Jacob's family and possessions, or even violence. Jacob's secret departure, while seemingly deceptive, was an act of obedience to God's command and a strategic move to protect his family and the wealth that God had blessed him with, ensuring their safe passage away from Laban's control.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jacob's obedient departure from Laban's house, a place characterized by servitude, deception, and familial strife, to return to the promised land at God's express command, serves as a powerful foreshadowing of the greater spiritual journey of salvation found in Christ. Just as Jacob was called out of a difficult and oppressive situation to inherit a divine promise, so too are believers called by Christ to leave the bondage of sin and the world's systems, entering into the spiritual promised land of God's kingdom and eternal rest. Christ Himself is the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs, the true "Way" who leads His people through all transitions and challenges ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). He is the one who guides us out of spiritual Egypt (bondage) into the promised land of communion with God, reconciling us to the Father ([2 Corinthians 5:17-19](/2_corinthians/5-17-19 "Reconciliation Through Christ")). Through Christ, we are given a new identity and a new inheritance, far surpassing the earthly land Jacob sought, ultimately leading us to the heavenly city, "whose architect and builder is God" ([Hebrews 11:8-10](/hebrews/11-8-10 "Abraham's Faith and the Heavenly City")). Jacob's act of faith-filled obedience, therefore, points to the ultimate obedience of Christ, who, by His sacrifice, secures our true and lasting exodus into God's eternal presence.

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

1 Samuel 30:17

And David smote them from the twilight even unto the evening of the next day: and there escaped not a man of them, save four hundred young men, which rode upon camels, and fled.

Genesis 24:61

And Rebekah arose, and her damsels, and they rode upon the camels, and followed the man: and the servant took Rebekah, and went his way.

Genesis 24:10

¶ And the servant took ten camels of the camels of his master, and departed; for all the goods of his master [were] in his hand: and he arose, and went to Mesopotamia, unto the city of Nahor.