Genesis 29:19 Meaning and Explanation
“And Laban said, It is better that I give her to thee, than that I should give her to another man: abide with me.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Laban agrees to give Rachel to Jacob, preferring him to any other suitor.
The Context of Genesis 29:19
Laban agrees to the marriage contract and invites Jacob to stay.
What Does Genesis 29:19 Mean?
Laban's response is immediate acceptance, but the phrasing reveals his calculation. 'It is better that I give her to thee' suggests Laban prefers Jacob as a son-in-law—perhaps because he values Jacob as a worker, or because he has assessed Jacob's character favorably, or simply because no other suitors have appeared who offered as much value. The acceptance is transactional but also relational.
The invitation 'Abide with me' commits Laban to employment. Jacob is now part of the household with a defined purpose: seven years of labor in exchange for marriage to Rachel. The agreement is made—sealed not with ceremony but with words. What follows is the prolonged period of service that will test both men's integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 29:19
What does Genesis 29:19 mean?
Laban agrees to give Rachel to Jacob, preferring him to any other suitor.
What is the context of Genesis 29:19?
Laban agrees to the marriage contract and invites Jacob to stay.