Genesis 31:6

KJV

And ye know that with all my power I have served your father.

KJV (with Strong's)

And ye {H859} know {H3045} that with all my power {H3581} I have served {H5647} your father {H1}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You know that I have served your father with all my strength,

Berean Standard Bible

You know that I have served your father with all my strength.

American Standard Version

And ye know that with all my power I have served your father.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In this pivotal address to his wives, Rachel and Leah, Jacob articulates the unwavering dedication and immense effort he invested in serving their father, Laban, for two decades. This declaration is not merely a statement of fact but a foundational argument to justify his divinely commanded, yet clandestine, departure from Laban's household, highlighting his integrity and the righteousness of his decision despite years of exploitation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** [Genesis 31:6](/genesis/31-6 "Jacob's Address to Rachel and Leah") is part of Jacob’s carefully constructed argument to Rachel and Leah, convincing them to leave their father Laban’s house with him. This conversation follows a divine directive for Jacob to return to the land of his fathers ([Genesis 31:3](/genesis/31-3 "God Commands Jacob's Return")), prompted by growing tension and Laban’s increasingly hostile demeanor. Jacob first recounts Laban’s repeated deceit regarding his wages ([Genesis 31:7](/genesis/31-7 "Laban Changes Jacob's Wages Ten Times")), then details God’s miraculous intervention to bless him despite Laban’s schemes ([Genesis 31:8-12](/genesis/31-8-12 "God's Intervention for Jacob")). His assertion of faithful service in [Genesis 31:6](/genesis/31-6 "Jacob's Diligent Service") serves as a moral anchor, demonstrating his blameless conduct amidst Laban's treachery, thereby strengthening his case for departure and securing his wives' crucial support.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the patriarchal period, the relationship between a son-in-law and his father-in-law often involved a period of service as a form of bride-price, especially when the groom lacked substantial wealth. Jacob’s twenty years of service (fourteen for his wives and six for his flocks, as detailed in [Genesis 31:41](/genesis/31-41 "Jacob's Twenty Years of Service")) far exceeded typical expectations, underscoring Laban’s exploitative nature. The cultural norm also granted the father significant authority over his daughters and their initial movements, making Jacob’s secret departure a profound breach of custom. Jacob's appeal to his wives' direct observation of his labor was a powerful rhetorical strategy, as their testimony would be culturally significant in validating his claims and securing their loyalty over their father's.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Genesis. It highlights the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Providence**, as God consistently intervenes to protect and prosper Jacob despite human injustice, fulfilling His covenant promises made to Abraham and Isaac. The narrative also explores the theme of **Integrity Amidst Adversity**, showcasing Jacob’s steadfast diligence and ethical conduct even when exploited. Furthermore, it underscores the theme of **Family Dynamics and Conflict**, revealing the complex and often fraught relationships within the patriarchal household, particularly the tension between Jacob and Laban, and the ultimate necessity for Jacob to separate to fulfill God’s plan for his lineage, as seen in the broader narrative of [Genesis 29-31](/genesis/29-31 "Jacob's Family and Flight from Laban").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
The declaration in [Genesis 31:6](/genesis/31-6 "Jacob's Statement of Service") is a cornerstone of Jacob's argument to Rachel and Leah, asserting his unwavering commitment: "And ye know that with all my power I have served your father." This statement is not a mere boast but a factual appeal to their direct observation, intended to establish his integrity and the righteousness of his decision to leave Laban.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **know (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** This primitive root signifies "to ascertain by seeing," encompassing a wide range of meanings from simple observation to intimate acquaintance and understanding. Here, Jacob appeals to the wives' direct, experiential knowledge. They were eyewitnesses to his labor, implying an undeniable truth that they could not dispute. It suggests a deep, personal awareness of his diligence, not just a casual observation.
* **power (Hebrew, _kôach'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to be firm," this word denotes vigor, force, might, ability, or strength. When Jacob states he served "with all my power," he is emphasizing the totality and intensity of his exertion. It implies that he held nothing back, dedicating his full physical, mental, and emotional capacity to Laban's service, despite the lack of fair compensation or appreciation.
* **served (Hebrew, _ʻâbad'_):** This primitive root means "to work" in any sense, by implication "to serve," "till," or even "enslave." In this context, it refers to the diligent, laborious work Jacob performed. The use of this verb underscores the nature of his relationship with Laban—one of a servant or laborer, despite being a family member—and highlights the demanding and extensive nature of his duties, which included tending flocks and managing Laban’s household affairs.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And ye know":** This opening phrase is a direct appeal to the shared experience and personal knowledge of Rachel and Leah. Jacob is not presenting new information but reminding them of a truth they have witnessed firsthand. It sets a tone of undeniable fact, leveraging their insider perspective on Laban's household and Jacob's labor within it.
* **"that with all my power":** This clause emphasizes the completeness and intensity of Jacob's service. The Hebrew phrase *b'khol kochi* (בְּכָל־כֹּחִ֛י) literally means "with all my strength/might." It conveys that Jacob held nothing back, investing his entire physical and mental energy into his work for Laban, demonstrating an exemplary work ethic even under exploitative conditions.
* **"I have served your father":** This final clause identifies the recipient of Jacob's diligent labor. The use of "your father" subtly aligns Jacob with Rachel and Leah, creating a shared perspective against Laban's injustice. It highlights the long duration and consistent nature of Jacob's service, establishing a moral high ground from which he can justify his subsequent actions.

#### Literary Devices
Jacob's statement employs **Assertion** and **Appeal to Witness**. The phrase "And ye know" functions as an **Appeal to Witness**, directly invoking Rachel and Leah as firsthand observers and therefore corroborators of his claim. This rhetorical strategy strengthens his argument by grounding it in undeniable, shared experience rather than mere subjective declaration. Furthermore, the entire verse is a powerful **Assertion** of Jacob's integrity and diligence. By stating he served "with all my power," Jacob emphasizes the totality of his effort, which stands in stark contrast to Laban's deceitful and exploitative practices. This assertion serves to justify his impending departure as a righteous act, not an abandonment of duty, but a response to divine command and persistent injustice.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jacob's unwavering diligence in serving Laban, despite being repeatedly defrauded, powerfully illustrates the principle of faithfulness in the face of injustice. This narrative demonstrates that God observes and honors faithful labor, even when human masters do not. Jacob's perseverance, sustained by God's promises, reflects a deeper theological truth: God's covenant faithfulness to His people, even through their trials. This commitment to work "with all his power" can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament teaching that all work, when done with integrity and as unto the Lord, becomes an act of worship and obedience, regardless of the immediate circumstances or the character of the employer. God ultimately vindicates His servants, turning human schemes into opportunities for divine blessing and the fulfillment of His purposes.

* [Colossians 3:23](/colossians/3-23 "Serve heartily, as unto the Lord")
* [Ephesians 6:7](/ephesians/6-7 "Serve with good will as to the Lord")
* [Psalm 37:5-6](/psalm/37-5-6 "Commit your way to the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jacob's declaration in [Genesis 31:6](/genesis/31-6 "Jacob's Example of Diligent Service") offers profound lessons for contemporary believers regarding work ethic, integrity, and trust in divine providence. In a world where fair compensation and recognition are not always guaranteed, Jacob’s example challenges us to perform our duties with diligence and integrity, as if serving God Himself, rather than merely human employers. His ability to confidently assert his faithful service underscores the value of maintaining a consistent record of hard work and ethical conduct, which builds credibility and inner peace. Ultimately, this verse encourages us to trust that God sees our faithful labor, even when others fail to appreciate it or act justly, and that He will ultimately bring about His purposes and vindication in our lives, transforming even difficult circumstances into pathways for His blessing and glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jacob's commitment to serve "with all my power" challenge your own approach to work, especially when circumstances are less than ideal?**
* **In what ways can you cultivate a spirit of diligence and integrity in your daily tasks, knowing that God sees and values your effort?**
* **How does trusting in God's ultimate justice and vindication empower you to remain faithful when facing unfair treatment or exploitation?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jacob need to justify his departure to his wives?**

Answer: Jacob needed to secure the understanding, consent, and cooperation of Rachel and Leah because they were Laban's daughters and integral members of his household. Their agreement was crucial for a smooth and secretive departure, especially given the cultural context where a father held significant authority over his daughters. By appealing to their direct knowledge of his faithful service, Jacob demonstrated the righteousness of his decision, aiming to ensure their loyalty and support over their father's claims, which was vital for the success of their journey back to Canaan, as outlined in [Genesis 31:17-18](/genesis/31-17-18 "Jacob's Departure with his Family").

**What does "with all my power" imply about Jacob's character?**

Answer: The phrase "with all my power" (Hebrew: *b'khol kochi*) implies that Jacob dedicated his complete physical, mental, and emotional energy to his work for Laban. It highlights his profound diligence, unwavering integrity, and exceptional commitment, demonstrating a strong work ethic even in the face of persistent exploitation and deception by Laban. This speaks to a character that honored his obligations fully, reflecting a deep sense of responsibility and perhaps an underlying trust that God would see his faithfulness, as later confirmed in [Genesis 31:42](/genesis/31-42 "God's Intervention for Jacob").

**How does Jacob's service to Laban relate to our service to God?**

Answer: Jacob's diligent service to Laban, despite the injustice and lack of fair compensation, serves as a powerful example of working faithfully regardless of external circumstances. This parallels the biblical call for believers to work heartily "as unto the Lord" and not merely for human masters, as taught in [Colossians 3:23-24](/colossians/3-23-24 "Serve heartily, as unto the Lord"). Our effort and integrity in all tasks should be motivated by our devotion to God, rather than solely by human recognition or reward. God sees and honors our faithful labor, and our work, when done with integrity, can become an act of worship, as also seen in [Ephesians 6:7-8](/ephesians/6-7-8 "Serving with good will, as to the Lord").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jacob's diligent and faithful service "with all my power" to an unjust master, Laban, serves as a profound foreshadowing of the perfect and ultimate service of Jesus Christ. While Jacob's commendable service was still imperfect and driven by human necessity and the desire for blessing, Christ's obedience was absolute, unblemished, and entirely selfless. Jesus perfectly fulfilled the will of His Heavenly Father, serving humanity with His entire being, even unto the ignominious death on the cross, despite facing immense injustice, betrayal, and rejection from those He came to save ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Christ's Obedience Unto Death")). Jacob's eventual vindication and blessing by God, despite Laban's schemes and attempts to defraud him, powerfully points to Christ's ultimate triumph over sin, death, and injustice through His resurrection ([Romans 6:9-10](/romans/6-9-10 "Christ's Resurrection and Victory over Death")). His perfect service establishes Him as the righteous King whose obedient life, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection bring salvation and eternal life to all who believe, fulfilling God's covenant promises in a way far surpassing Jacob's experience ([Hebrews 5:8-9](/hebrews/5-8-9 "Christ's Perfect Obedience")).

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 30:29

And he said unto him, Thou knowest how I have served thee, and how thy cattle was with me.

Colossians 3:22

Servants, obey in all things [your] masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:

Colossians 3:25

But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.

Genesis 31:38

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 31:42

Except the God of my father, the God of Abraham, and the fear of Isaac, had been with me, surely thou hadst sent me away now empty. God hath seen mine affliction and the labour of my hands, and rebuked [thee] yesternight.

Ephesians 6:5

Servants, be obedient to them that are [your] masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;

Ephesians 6:8

Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether [he be] bond or free.