King James Version

What Does Genesis 31:21 Mean?

“So he fled with all that he had; and he rose up, and passed over the river, and set his face toward the mount Gilead.”

Context

And Laban went to shear his sheep: and Rachel had stolen the images that were her father's. images: Heb. teraphim

And Jacob stole away unawares to Laban the Syrian, in that he told him not that he fled. unawares: Heb. the heart of Laban

So he fled with all that he had; and he rose up, and passed over the river, and set his face toward the mount Gilead.

And it was told Laban on the third day that Jacob was fled.

And he took his brethren with him, and pursued after him seven days' journey; and they overtook him in the mount Gilead.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **The river.**—The Euphrates. **Mount Gilead.**—Gilead, *the region of rock, *was the mountainous frontier between the Aramean and Canaanite races. The form of the word is so remote from ordinary Hebrew that we have in it, probably, a very old appellation of this region; and Jacob apparently plays upon it in his name *Galeed *(Genesis 31:47).

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Genesis 31:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.