Genesis 31:2 kjv

And Jacob beheld the countenance of Laban, and, behold, it was not toward him as before.

Genesis 31:2 nkjv

And Jacob saw the countenance of Laban, and indeed it was not favorable toward him as before.

Genesis 31:2 niv

And Jacob noticed that Laban's attitude toward him was not what it had been.

Genesis 31:2 esv

And Jacob saw that Laban did not regard him with favor as before.

Genesis 31:2 nlt

And Jacob began to notice a change in Laban's attitude toward him.

Genesis 31 verses

Genesis 31 2 Meaning

Genesis 31:2 signifies Jacob's astute observation and discernment of Laban's shifted disposition towards him. Jacob perceived that Laban's inner attitude, as reflected in his demeanor, was no longer favorable or benign but had turned sour, envious, and potentially hostile. This marked a profound change from their previous, albeit strained, interactions, signaling a significant deterioration in their relationship and an impending confrontation or crisis.

Genesis 31 2 Context

Genesis 31:2 occurs at a pivotal moment after Jacob has served Laban for twenty years, acquiring substantial wealth—flocks, servants, camels, and donkeys—largely due to God's blessing, even amidst Laban's repeated deceptions (Gen 30:43). The immediate preceding verses (Gen 31:1) reveal that Laban's sons were voicing complaints, asserting that Jacob had taken their father's possessions. This created an atmosphere of growing tension and hostility within Laban's household. Jacob, ever vigilant and discerning, observes this shift not just through hearsay but through Laban's changed 'countenance.' This perception directly leads to Jacob's next course of action, where God Himself commands Jacob to return to the land of his fathers (Gen 31:3). The historical and cultural context underscores the importance of a father-in-law's disposition, which, when sour, could pose significant danger to the son-in-law's family and property, especially in a time where power rested heavily within the patriarch's hands.

Genesis 31 2 Word analysis

• And Jacob saw: The Hebrew word wayyar (וַיַּ֣ר) means "and he saw" (from ra'ah רָאָה). This "seeing" is not merely physical sight but implies perception, discernment, or understanding. Jacob comprehended the deeper meaning behind Laban's appearance, recognizing an inward shift in attitude. It suggests a heightened awareness, possibly divinely granted or sharpened by long experience with Laban's deceitful nature.
• the countenance: The Hebrew word p'nei (פְּנֵ֖י) means "face" (from panim פָּנִים). However, in biblical usage, "face" often refers to more than just the physical features. It frequently denotes the whole disposition, presence, favor, attitude, or inner disposition of a person. A change in countenance suggests a fundamental alteration of the inner self, reflected externally. It can indicate a welcoming spirit, an angry disposition, or one of disfavor.
• of Laban: Refers to Jacob's father-in-law, a character consistently portrayed in Genesis as shrewd, manipulative, and primarily self-serving. His actions in chapter 29-30 demonstrate his readiness to deceive and exploit, making Jacob's observation highly significant given their history.
• and, behold: The Hebrew w'hinnei (וְהִנֵּ֛ה) is an interjection, emphasizing immediate apprehension, a sudden realization, or an emphatic declaration drawing attention to what follows. It signifies that Jacob's observation was stark and undeniable, making the changed countenance a clear indicator of a critical situation.
• it was not toward him as before: The Hebrew phrase einennu 'immo kitmol (אֵינֶ֣נּוּ עִמּ֖וֹ כִּתְמוֹל).
  • einennu (אֵינֶ֣נּוּ) means "it was not," emphasizing negation.
  • 'immo (עִמּ֖וֹ) means "with him" or "toward him," referring to Laban's attitude or favor towards Jacob.
  • kitmol (כִּתְמוֹל) means "as yesterday," but idiomatically it signifies "as before," "as in former times," or "as previously." This idiom highlights a definitive contrast to an earlier state. The implication is that Laban's former pretense of cordiality or tolerance had entirely vanished, replaced by open hostility or malevolence.

Genesis 31 2 Bonus section

The Hebrew emphasis on the face or countenance (panim) is a consistent biblical motif that expresses the true inner state of a person, be it human or divine. While God's face shining upon someone signifies blessing and favor (as seen in the Aaronic blessing, Num 6), a human countenance falling or turning away indicates disfavor, anger, or envy (like Cain's in Gen 4). Laban's countenance thus served as a divinely permitted sign, an outward reflection of his inner spiritual decline—his growing jealousy and deceit finally manifested in an unmistakable way. This observation not only confirms the truth of the previous verse (Laban's sons' words about Jacob taking their father's wealth) but also highlights God's sovereignty, guiding Jacob through visible means towards the next stage of His divine plan for Jacob's life and the lineage of Israel.

Genesis 31 2 Commentary

Genesis 31:2 is a succinct yet profound verse that acts as a pivot in Jacob's narrative. It reveals Jacob's discernment of Laban's changing intentions, which signals an imminent shift in Jacob's own life journey. After years of being exploited, Jacob senses through Laban's countenance—not just his words or actions, but his entire demeanor and attitude—that their relationship has soured beyond repair. This 'seeing' underscores the importance of spiritual perception; Jacob recognized the manifestation of envy and covetousness that had brewed within Laban's heart, likely intensified by Jacob's God-given prosperity. This clear shift in human favor and countenance served as a critical indicator for Jacob, confirming the volatile situation and foreshadowing the divine instruction that follows to return to his homeland. The verse reminds us that true intentions can often be discerned through outward signs and that reliance on shifting human affections is insecure, pushing believers to lean on God's unchanging nature.

• Practical usage example: Recognizing subtle cues in someone's demeanor that indicate a shift in their attitude towards you, prompting a need for prayer, wisdom, or protective action, just as Jacob did before seeking God's guidance.