Definition: And make ye marriages with us, [and] give your daughters unto us, and take our daughters unto you.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 34:9. It’s a really important passage about how Jacob’s sons, Esau and Laban, are to be treated. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jacob’s Problem: Jacob, a man of great wealth and power, has a difficult situation with his sons, Esau and Laban. He needs to make sure they don’t run off and cause trouble. Laban’s Request: Laban, Jacob’s neighbor, asks him to take the daughters of his sons – Esau and Jacob – and raise them as his own. He wants a large family to provide him with servants and possibly even a wife. What the Verse Says (in plain language): “And make ye marriages with us, [and] give your daughters unto us, and take our daughters unto you.” "Make ye marriages with us..." : This means Jacob is asking Laban to enter into marriage with him and his family. "...and give your daughters unto us..." : This is the crucial part! It’s saying that Jacob will be taking the daughters of Esau and Jacob and giving them to him . "...and take our daughters unto you." : This means Laban will be taking these daughters and keeping them as his own. What it Means (a bit deeper): This verse is a significant step in Jacob’s life. It highlights several things: Control & Ownership: It shows that Jacob isn't just letting his sons live freely. He’s establishing a relationship with Laban, and potentially hinting at future power dynamics. A Promise of a Large Family: Laban’s request is designed to create a large family for him – which ultimately leads to significant wealth and influence for Laban. Important Context (briefly): This story is part of the larger narrative of Jacob's life, which involves some difficult choices and trials. It shows his willingness to be flexible and make deals – even with people he doesn’t particularly trust. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this verse in more detail? (e.g., its significance in the story's overall meaning?) Give you a comparison to another Bible passage about similar situations? Answer any further questions you have about Genesis 34:9?