Old Testament
Genesis 29:21
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, Jacob is expressing his readiness to fulfill his commitment to Laban, his uncle, by asking for his wife, Rachel.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Then Jacob said to Laban, "My time is complete. Give me my wife so that I can be with her."
And Jacob said unto Laban, Give me my wife, for my days are fulfilled, that I may go in unto her.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Jacob is expressing his readiness to fulfill his commitment to Laban, his uncle, by asking for his wife, Rachel. Jacob has worked for seven years to earn the right to marry her, and now he feels that his time of waiting is over. His words reflect a deep desire for connection and intimacy, highlighting the importance of relationships in our lives. Jacob's determination shows that he values his promises and is eager to move forward. This moment is significant as it marks a turning point in Jacob's life, where he transitions from being a worker to becoming a husband. It reminds us that patience and hard work can lead to fulfilling our dreams. Jacob's plea is not just about marriage; it symbolizes the human longing for love and companionship, which resonates with many of us today. His story encourages us to pursue what we desire while honoring our commitments and relationships with others, emphasizing the importance of love in our journey through life. Ultimately, it’s about the joy that comes from fulfilling our promises.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 29:21 to your life
Consider what commitments you have made in your life. Are you actively working towards fulfilling them? Like Jacob, remember that patience and dedication can lead to meaningful relationships and personal fulfillment. Reflect on the importance of love and connection in your own journey today. Take steps to nurture those bonds you cherish most deeply.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 29:21 mean?
Genesis 29:21 shows Jacob asking Laban for his wife Rachel after working seven years to earn her. It signifies Jacob's readiness to fulfill his commitment and highlights the importance of love and relationships in his life.
What is the significance of Jacob's request in Genesis 29:21?
Jacob's request in Genesis 29:21 marks a turning point in his life, transitioning from a worker to a husband. It reflects his determination to honor his commitment and pursue love, emphasizing the value of patience and dedication.
What does 'my time is complete' mean in Genesis 29:21?
In Genesis 29:21, 'my time is complete' indicates that Jacob feels his period of waiting and working for Rachel has ended. It expresses his eagerness to move forward into marriage and fulfill his promise.
What themes are present in Genesis 29:21?
Genesis 29:21 encompasses themes of commitment, love, patience, and relationships. It illustrates the human longing for connection and the fulfillment that comes from honoring one's promises.

The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
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