Laban
Laban in the Bible — brother of Rebekah (GEN 24:29). Referenced in 4 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “white; shining; gentle; brittle”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Scripture References
- 4 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 3 connections
Biography
Laban is a male figure in Scripture known primarily as the brother of Rebekah. He is recognized as the father of Leah and Rachel and lived in Haran. His role in the biblical narrative highlights his interactions with Jacob, particularly in the context of family and covenant history.
Names & Titles
The name Laban means 'white' as noted in Genesis 24:29. This proper name does not appear to be given by God but is significant as a personal identifier in the biblical text.
Family
Scripture explicitly identifies Laban as the brother of Rebekah and, by inference, as the father of Leah and Rachel. These relationships place him centrally within the family line through which the twelve tribes of Israel were established.
Significance
Laban plays a crucial role in God's providential plan by serving as the father of Leah and Rachel, who became the mothers of the twelve tribes of Israel. His interactions with Jacob, including acts of deception and negotiation, demonstrate God's sovereignty in using imperfect human circumstances to fulfill His covenant promises. Thus, Laban's life illustrates how God works through complex family dynamics to advance His redemptive purposes.
Key Events
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- לָבָ֑ן
- Transliteration
- lavan
- Meaning
- white
- Greek
- Λαβαν
- Reference
- GEN 24:29
- Strong's
- H3837a
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Laban in the Bible?
Laban is a male figure in Scripture known primarily as the brother of Rebekah. He is recognized as the father of Leah and Rachel and lived in Haran. His role in the biblical narrative highlights his interactions with Jacob, particularly in the context of family and covenant history.
What does the name Laban mean?
The name Laban means “white; shining; gentle; brittle” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.