Chapter 29

29:1  Then Jacob went on his journey, and came into the land of the people of the east.

and came into the land

Jacob at Haran becomes a sterling illustration, if not type, of the nation descended from him in its present long dispersion. Like Israel, he was:

(1) Out of the place of blessing Genesis 26:3 .

(2) without an altar Hosea 3:4 Hosea 3:5 .

(3) gained an evil name Genesis 31:1 ; Romans 2:17-24 .

(4) but was under the covenant care of Jehovah Genesis 28:13 Genesis 28:14 ; Romans 11:1 Romans 11:25-30 .

(5) and was ultimately brought back Genesis 31:3 ; 35:1-4 ; Ezekiel 37:21-23 .

The personal lesson is obvious: while Jacob is not forsaken, he is permitted to reap the shame and sorrow of his self-chosen way.