Definition: And he said, What shall I give thee? And Jacob said, Thou shalt not give me any thing: if thou wilt do this thing for me, I will again feed [and] keep thy flock:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 30:31. It’s a really important and slightly mysterious passage about Jacob’s situation. Here's the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Story: Jacob is in a difficult position. He’s a man who has been fleeing from his father, Isaac, and is currently wandering around Egypt. God decides to test him. God wants to see how Jacob will handle a challenge. He’s offered a choice: God tells Jacob that he can either give up his freedom or, if he chooses to help him, he’ll provide for him. What the Verse Says – A Bit More Detail: “And he said, What shall I give thee? And Jacob said, Thou shalt not give me any thing: if thou wilt do this thing for me, I will again feed [and] keep thy flock:” "What shall I give thee?" - This is a really important question. It's not about literal gifts – it’s about spiritual gifts. Jacob was asking God what he could possibly offer. “Thou shalt not give me any thing” – This is a direct command from God. Jacob was being told to refuse any help or favor that God offered him. “If thou wilt do this thing for me, I will again feed [and] keep thy flock:” - This is the crucial part. Jacob was being asked to help God in a way that would benefit his family and his flock (his sheep). He was being asked to protect them. It’s about keeping them safe and secure. What it Means – The Big Picture: This verse speaks to a fundamental theme in the Old Testament: God's provision for His people. It highlights that God is actively involved in our lives, offering help and protection when we need it most. It’s about dependence on God and trusting that He will provide. Why it’s significant: This verse sets the stage for a huge story – Jacob's time with his uncle Laban, where he’s forced to work as a servant and eventually becomes the ancestor of many famous figures in the Bible (like Joseph). It shows God’s care for humanity and His desire to protect us. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Talk about the symbolism behind this passage? Connect it to a specific story or figure in the Bible?