The Church Fathers on this verse

Genesis 30:29Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

But he answered: Thou knowest how I have served thee, and how great thy possession hath been in my hands.

Douay-Rheims

וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֔יו אַתָּ֣ה יָדַ֔עְתָּ אֵ֖ת אֲשֶׁ֣ר עֲבַדְתִּ֑יךָ וְאֵ֛ת אֲשֶׁר־הָיָ֥ה מִקְנְךָ֖ אִתִּֽי׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

One Church Father comments on this verse

John Chrysostom

4th centuryChurch Father

What can be said of the righteous individual? Observe his profound humility; despite this, he strives to avoid being harsh or disrespectful towards Laban. What action does he take? He again invites Laban to witness his attitude towards him and the loyalty he has demonstrated throughout his time of service. “Thou knowest,” he asserts, “how I have served thee, and what thy cattle have become under me; for thou hadst little before me, but hast become much; the Lord hath blessed thee with my coming; when shall I labour for my house?” He calls upon Laban to bear witness to his efforts; Laban himself is aware of the diligence with which he has fulfilled his responsibilities. Having started with a small flock given to him, he has, through his hard work and continuous attention, multiplied it significantly.

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.