Give me my wives, and my children, for whom I have served thee, that I may depart: thou knowest the service that I have rendered thee.
תְּנָ֞ה אֶת־נָשַׁ֣י וְאֶת־יְלָדַ֗י אֲשֶׁ֨ר עָבַ֧דְתִּי אֹֽתְךָ֛ בָּהֵ֖ן וְאֵלֵ֑כָה כִּ֚י אַתָּ֣ה יָדַ֔עְתָּ אֶת־עֲבֹדָתִ֖י אֲשֶׁ֥ר עֲבַדְתִּֽיךָ׃
2 Church Fathers comment on this verse
Were Jacob's wives and children not alongside him? Why then did he say, "Give my wives and my children"? Jacob spoke this way to show respect, reveal his disposition in matters, and desire a peaceful separation from Laban. Thus, with these words, he won Laban's favor, leading Laban to promise him a reward and allow him to choose what it would be.
You are aware of the duration of my service to you. James points out to Laban that the agreed-upon period has come to an end; or maybe, in a humble manner, he aims to convey that he deserves some provision for his travels.
Passages read together with this verse.
THEOSIS