Genesis 31:55

KJV

And early in the morning Laban rose up, and kissed his sons and his daughters, and blessed them: and Laban departed, and returned unto his place.

KJV (with Strong's)

And early {H7925} in the morning {H1242} Laban {H3837} rose up {H7925}, and kissed {H5401} his sons {H1121} and his daughters {H1323}, and blessed {H1288} them: and Laban {H3837} departed {H3212}, and returned {H7725} unto his place {H4725}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Early in the morning Lavan got up, kissed his sons and daughters, and blessed them. Then Lavan left and returned to his own place.

Berean Standard Bible

Early the next morning, Laban got up and kissed his grandchildren and daughters and blessed them. Then he left to return home.

American Standard Version

And early in the morning Laban rose up, and kissed his sons and his daughters, and blessed them: and Laban departed, and returned unto his place.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 31:55 marks the definitive conclusion of Laban's long and often tumultuous relationship with Jacob, portraying Laban's final, poignant acts of farewell as he kisses and blesses his daughters and grandchildren before departing for his homeland. This verse serves as a critical narrative pivot, signifying the peaceful resolution of their protracted conflict and enabling Jacob to resume his divinely directed journey back to Canaan, unhindered by his father-in-law's influence. It encapsulates a moment of familial closure, despite the underlying history of tension and manipulation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse provides the narrative climax and resolution to the extended conflict between Jacob and Laban, which has dominated the preceding chapters. Following Jacob's clandestine departure from Laban's household after two decades of service, as recounted in [Genesis 31:17-21](/genesis/31-17-21 "Jacob's Secret Departure"), Laban pursued him with hostile intent. However, divine intervention, powerfully described in [Genesis 31:24](/genesis/31-24 "God's Warning to Laban"), prevented Laban from harming Jacob. Their subsequent tense confrontation culminated in a covenant of peace and mutual non-aggression established at Mizpah, marked by a pillar and a heap of stones ([Genesis 31:44-54](/genesis/31-44-54 "The Covenant at Mizpah")). Genesis 31:55, therefore, serves as the final, decisive act of this reconciliation, providing a clear narrative boundary and setting the stage for Jacob's next significant encounters on his homeward journey, particularly with Esau.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, familial bonds, particularly between a father and his daughters and grandchildren, were profoundly significant, even amidst disputes. The act of "kissing" (H5401, _nâshaq_) was a common gesture of greeting, farewell, or reconciliation, signifying deep emotion or affection, and often accompanied by a "blessing" (H1288, _bârak_). Laban's actions reflect these cultural norms for a patriarchal farewell, even if his past behavior had been less than honorable. The concept of "returning unto his place" (H4725, _mâqôwm_) underscores the importance of one's ancestral land and tribal affiliation in this period, signifying a permanent separation of households and a return to established territories. This formal departure was crucial for ensuring that the covenant made at Mizpah would be honored, preventing future claims or interference.

* **Key Themes:** Genesis 31:55 contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Providence and Protection**, as God's direct intervention in [Genesis 31:24](/genesis/31-24 "God's Intervention for Jacob") ensures Jacob's safety and the peaceful resolution of the conflict, allowing him to continue his journey toward the promised land. This highlights God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly those made to Jacob at Bethel ([Genesis 28:15](/genesis/28-15 "God's Promise to Jacob at Bethel")). The verse also underscores the theme of **Reconciliation and Closure**, demonstrating that even deeply strained relationships can find a measure of peace and definitive separation, enabling all parties to move forward. Finally, it marks a significant step in Jacob's personal journey of **Maturation and Identity Formation**, as he is now fully released from Laban's influence, prepared to assume his role as a patriarch and to confront the challenges and blessings awaiting him in Canaan, as promised throughout [Genesis](/genesis "The Book of Genesis").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 31:55 meticulously records Laban's final actions before his departure, providing a definitive closure to his involvement in Jacob's life.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **morning (Hebrew, _bôqer'_):** H1242, from בָּקַר; properly, dawn (as the break of day); generally, morning; ([phrase]) day, early, morning, morrow. This word emphasizes the early hour of Laban's departure, suggesting a decisive and perhaps eager movement to conclude the farewell and return home. It signifies the beginning of a new day, symbolically marking a new chapter for both Laban and Jacob.
* **kissed (Hebrew, _nâshaq'_):** H5401, a primitive root (identical with נָשַׂק, through the idea of fastening up; compare חָזָק, חָשַׁק); to kiss, literally or figuratively (touch); also (as a mode of attachment), to equip with weapons; armed (men), rule, kiss, that touched. In this context, _nâshaq_ denotes a physical act of affection and farewell. Its inclusion here highlights a complex mix of genuine familial emotion, despite the history of deception and conflict, and adherence to customary farewell rituals.
* **blessed (Hebrew, _bârak'_):** H1288, a primitive root; to kneel; by implication to bless God (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (God or the king, as treason); [idiom] abundantly, [idiom] altogether, [idiom] at all, blaspheme, bless, congratulate, curse, [idiom] greatly, [idiom] indeed, kneel (down), praise, salute, [idiom] still, thank. Here, _bârak_ signifies a paternal good wish or benediction, conveying a desire for the well-being and prosperity of his daughters and grandchildren. It is a final act of paternal favor and acknowledgment of their departure, implicitly releasing them to their new life with Jacob.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And early in the morning Laban rose up,"**: This phrase emphasizes the swift and decisive nature of Laban's departure. The early hour suggests an eagerness to conclude the farewell and return to his own land, signaling the definitive end of his direct involvement in Jacob's life. It underscores the finality of the separation.
* **"and kissed his sons and his daughters, and blessed them:"**: This pivotal clause reveals Laban's final, complex acts of familial affection. "His sons" refers to his grandchildren (Jacob's children), and "his daughters" are Leah and Rachel, Jacob's wives. The act of kissing (H5401, _nâshaq_) is a customary, intimate gesture of farewell, while "blessed them" (H1288, _bârak_) signifies a paternal good wish for their well-being. Despite his manipulative past, these actions convey a genuine, albeit complicated, expression of familial love and a formal release.
* **"and Laban departed, and returned unto his place."**: This concluding clause provides the definitive closure to the narrative arc involving Laban. "Departed" (H3212, _yâlak_) and "returned" (H7725, _shûwb_) emphasize the physical separation. Laban's return "unto his place" (H4725, _mâqôwm_), his homeland in Paddan-Aram, marks the complete and permanent separation of the two households. This peaceful parting, orchestrated by divine providence, allows Jacob to continue his journey to Canaan, the land of promise, without further hindrance or obligation to his father-in-law.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Closure** and **Symbolism**. The narrative achieves a profound sense of **Closure** by meticulously detailing Laban's final actions and his definitive departure. This provides a clear and satisfying end to the long-standing conflict between Jacob and Laban, resolving a major narrative tension that has spanned several chapters. The acts of kissing and blessing, followed by Laban's return "unto his place," are highly **Symbolic**. They symbolize not just a physical separation but also the severing of Laban's patriarchal influence over Jacob's household. This symbolic act of release is crucial for Jacob to fully embrace his own destiny and leadership as he returns to the land of promise, free from the entanglements and deceptions that characterized his time with Laban.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 31:55, while seemingly a simple narrative conclusion, is rich with theological implications. It powerfully illustrates God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly His commitment to protect and guide Jacob back to the promised land. Despite the human complexities, deceit, and conflict that characterized Jacob's relationship with Laban, God's sovereign hand is evident in orchestrating a peaceful resolution and ensuring Jacob's safe passage. This verse underscores that God's purposes will prevail, even through challenging human relationships, and that He is capable of bringing forth good and fulfilling His plans regardless of obstacles. The final, albeit imperfect, reconciliation and departure highlight the divine desire for peace and order, even if it means separating paths for the sake of greater spiritual progression.

* [Genesis 28:15](/genesis/28-15 "God's Promise to Jacob at Bethel"): God promises Jacob, "I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of." This verse is a direct fulfillment of that promise.
* [Psalm 37:23-24](/psalms/37-23-24 "The Steps of a Good Man"): "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand." This passage reflects the divine guidance and support Jacob experienced, even in challenging circumstances.
* [Proverbs 16:7](/proverbs/16-7 "When a Man's Ways Please the Lord"): "When a man's ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him." This proverb aptly describes the outcome of the conflict between Jacob and Laban, where God's intervention led to a peaceful resolution.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 31:55 offers profound insights into the nature of human relationships, the necessity of closure, and the overarching faithfulness of God. It teaches us that even in relationships marked by deep conflict, manipulation, or strained dynamics, there is a time for definitive farewells and the establishment of boundaries. Laban's final acts of kissing and blessing, despite his history, serve as a powerful reminder of the potential for grace, a measure of reconciliation, and the importance of allowing for proper goodbyes, especially within familial contexts. This passage encourages us to trust in God's faithful guidance through difficult transitions and strained relationships, knowing that He orchestrates events to bring about His purposes and lead us to our intended destinations. It challenges us to consider how we navigate endings in our own lives, whether personal or professional, and to seek God's wisdom in finding peace and moving forward, even when past hurts linger.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's intervention in the Jacob-Laban narrative encourage you to trust His guidance in your own challenging relationships?**
* **What significance do "goodbyes" and "closure" hold in your life, especially in relationships that have been difficult or complex?**
* **In what ways can you emulate the spirit of seeking peace and moving forward, even when past wrongs have occurred, as seen in this passage?**
* **How does Laban's final blessing, despite his character flaws, remind you of the complex nature of human affection and the possibility of grace in unexpected moments?**

### FAQ
**Why did Laban bless his daughters and grandchildren despite his conflict with Jacob?**

Answer: Laban's actions, while seemingly contradictory to his previous anger and pursuit, reflect a complex mix of genuine familial affection and cultural expectations of the ancient Near East. Despite his manipulative nature and conflict with Jacob, these were still his daughters and grandchildren, and the bond was significant. The act of kissing (H5401, _nâshaq_) and blessing (H1288, _bârak_) was a customary, formal farewell, conveying good wishes and a paternal benediction. It allowed for a degree of closure and a public acknowledgment of their departure. Furthermore, it aligns with the divine intervention that prevented him from harming Jacob ([Genesis 31:24](/genesis/31-24 "God's Warning to Laban")), suggesting a softened heart or at least an acknowledgment of God's hand in the situation, compelling him to act honorably in this final interaction.

**What is the significance of Laban "returning unto his place"?**

Answer: Laban "returning unto his place" (H4725, _mâqôwm_) signifies a definitive and permanent separation. His "place" refers to his homeland in Paddan-Aram, distinct from Canaan, where Jacob was headed. This phrase emphasizes that the chapter of Laban's direct involvement in Jacob's life is irrevocably closed. It allows Jacob to continue his journey unhindered, fulfilling God's command to return to the land of his fathers ([Genesis 31:3](/genesis/31-3 "God Instructs Jacob to Return")), and reinforces the idea that each man was to go his own way, respecting the covenant they had just made at Mizpah ([Genesis 31:44-54](/genesis/31-44-54 "The Covenant Between Jacob and Laban")). This geographical and relational separation is crucial for Jacob's future, enabling him to fully embrace his destiny as the patriarch of Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Genesis 31:55, though depicting a mundane human farewell, subtly points to Christ through its underlying themes of divine guidance, the fulfillment of promises, and ultimate reconciliation. Just as God faithfully led Jacob through years of servitude and conflict, ensuring his safe return to the promised land despite Laban's schemes, so too does Christ, our Good Shepherd, guide His people through the trials and complexities of life, guaranteeing their safe passage to the heavenly inheritance. Laban's final blessing, imperfect and born of complex motives, foreshadows the perfect and eternal blessing found in Jesus Christ, through whom believers are reconciled to God and receive the ultimate inheritance of salvation and eternal life ([Ephesians 1:3-7](/ephesians/1-3-7 "Spiritual Blessings in Christ")). In Christ, all of God's covenant promises find their "Yes" and "Amen" ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "God's Promises are Yes in Christ")), far surpassing any earthly blessing or reconciliation. His departure for His "place" (heavenly home) after accomplishing salvation on the cross ensures that His followers can proceed on their journey toward their true, eternal home, free from the bondage of sin and the interference of the adversary ([John 14:2-3](/john/14-2-3 "Jesus Prepares a Place for His Disciples")).

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

Genesis 31:28

And hast not suffered me to kiss my sons and my daughters? thou hast now done foolishly in [so] doing.

Genesis 18:33

And the LORD went his way, as soon as he had left communing with Abraham: and Abraham returned unto his place.

Genesis 30:25

¶ And it came to pass, when Rachel had born Joseph, that Jacob said unto Laban, Send me away, that I may go unto mine own place, and to my country.

Numbers 23:5

And the LORD put a word in Balaam's mouth, and said, Return unto Balak, and thus thou shalt speak.

Psalms 76:10

Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain.

Deuteronomy 23:5

Nevertheless the LORD thy God would not hearken unto Balaam; but the LORD thy God turned the curse into a blessing unto thee, because the LORD thy God loved thee.

Ruth 1:14

And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.