Old Testament
Genesis 31:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"All the wealth that God has taken from our father really belongs to us and our children. So do whatever God has told you to do."
Compare translations
For all the riches which God hath taken from our father, that is ours, and our children’s: now then, whatsoever God hath said unto thee, do.
What Genesis 31:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jacob's wives express their feelings about the wealth that their father, Laban, has accumulated. They recognize that the riches taken from Laban by God rightfully belong to them and their children. This acknowledgment shows their understanding of divine justice and inheritance. They encourage Jacob to follow God's guidance without hesitation. Their words reflect a deep trust in God's plan for their future. This moment highlights the importance of recognizing what is rightfully ours and the need to act on divine direction. It’s a powerful reminder that when we align ourselves with God’s will, we can confidently pursue our paths, knowing that we are supported by a greater purpose. Their unity in this decision also emphasizes the strength found in family and shared faith, encouraging us to stand together in our beliefs and actions. This verse invites us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we respond to God’s call, urging us to take bold steps forward in faith.
How to apply Genesis 31:16 to your life
Consider what you believe is rightfully yours in life, whether it’s opportunities, relationships, or dreams. Reflect on how you can pursue these with confidence, trusting in God’s guidance. Take a moment to pray for clarity and courage to follow through on your convictions and actions. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; your support system is vital!
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jacob's story: Jacob Leaves Laban (Genesis 31:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jacob
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Genesis 31:16
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Genesis 31:16
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 31:16 mean?
In Genesis 31:16, Jacob's wives assert that the wealth taken from their father, Laban, rightfully belongs to them and their children. They express their belief in divine justice and encourage Jacob to follow God's instructions without hesitation.
What is the significance of wealth in Genesis 31:16?
The wealth mentioned in Genesis 31:16 symbolizes not just material riches but also the inheritance and blessings that come from God. It highlights the importance of recognizing what is rightfully ours and trusting in God's plan for our lives.
How does Genesis 31:16 reflect family unity?
Genesis 31:16 shows family unity as Jacob's wives stand together in their understanding of their inheritance and support Jacob's decision to follow God's guidance. Their collective voice emphasizes the strength found in shared faith and mutual support.
What is the message of Genesis 31:16 about following God's guidance?
The message of Genesis 31:16 encourages individuals to act on God's direction with confidence. It illustrates the importance of trusting in God's plan and taking bold steps forward, knowing that we are supported in our journey.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.