KJV ORIGINAL
Wherefore didst thou flee away secretly, and steal away from me; and didst not tell me, that I might have sent thee away with mirth, and with songs, with tabret, and with harp?
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
Why did you run away in secret and sneak off from me? Why didn't you tell me you were leaving, so I could have sent you away with joy and celebration, with music and dancing?
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
Laban is confronting Jacob, asking why he left secretly instead of allowing for a proper, joyful farewell celebration.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs when Laban catches up to Jacob, who had fled with his wives (Laban's daughters) and possessions after twenty years of working for Laban. In ancient Near Eastern culture, departures were typically marked with ceremonial festivities, music, and formal farewells that honored family relationships and provided closure.
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