Genesis 31

Genesis 31 is the account of Jacob’s departure from Laban’s household after 20 years of service.

Jacob notices that Laban and his sons have become hostile toward him because they believe Jacob has become wealthy at their expense. God instructs Jacob to return to his homeland.

Jacob calls Rachel and Leah to meet him in the field, where he explains how Laban has cheated him by changing his wages ten times. Still, God has blessed him and transferred Laban’s wealth to him. Jacob tells them about a dream in which God told him to leave. Rachel and Leah agree to go, noting that their father has treated them like foreigners and consumed their inheritance.

While Laban is away shearing sheep, Jacob gathers his family and possessions and flees toward Canaan. Before leaving, Rachel secretly steals her father's household idols.

Three days later, Laban discovers Jacob’s departure and pursues him, catching up after seven days in the hill country of Gilead. God warns Laban in a dream not to harm Jacob.

When they meet, Laban confronts Jacob about leaving secretly and stealing his household gods. Jacob allows Laban to search for the idols, unaware that Rachel has hidden them under a camel’s saddle she’s sitting on, claiming she can’t rise due to her menstrual period.

After a fruitless search, Jacob angrily rebukes Laban, reminding Laban of his faithful service despite poor treatment. He reminds Laban how he worked 14 years for his daughters and six more years for his flocks, while enduring changing wages and harsh conditions.

Finally, Jacob and Laban make a covenant, building a stone pillar as a witness that neither will cross it to harm the other. They share a meal. The next morning, Laban kisses his daughters and grandchildren goodbye before returning home, and Jacob continues his journey toward Canaan.