Genesis 31:36

36 Then Jacob became incensed and challenged Laban. “What is my crime?” he said. “For what sin of mine have you so hotly pursued me?

Genesis 31:36 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 31:36

And Jacob was wroth, and chode with Laban
Having answered Laban's questions to the silencing of him, and nothing of his upon search, being found with him, Jacob took heart, and was of good courage and in high spirits, and in his turn was heated also; and perhaps might carry his passion a little too far, and is not to be excused from some degree of sin and weakness; however, his reasoning is strong and nervous, and his expostulations very just and pathetic; whatever may be said for the temper he was in, and the wrath and resentment he showed: and Jacob answered and said to Laban;
that whereas he had suggested that he had done a very bad thing, he asks him, what [is] my trespass? what [is] my sin?
what heinous offence have I committed? what law of God or man have I broke? that thou hast so hotly pursued after me?
with so much haste and swiftness, and with such a number of men, as if he came to take a thief, a robber, or a murderer.

Genesis 31:36 In-Context

34 Now Rachel had taken Laban’s household idols, put them in the saddlebag of her camel, and was sitting on them. And Laban searched everything in the tent but found nothing.

35 Rachel said to her father, “Sir, do not be angry that I cannot stand up before you; for I am having my period.” So Laban searched but could not find the household idols.

36 Then Jacob became incensed and challenged Laban. “What is my crime?” he said. “For what sin of mine have you so hotly pursued me?

37 You have searched all my goods! Have you found anything that belongs to you? Put it here before my brothers and yours, that they may judge between the two of us.

38 I have been with you for twenty years now. Your sheep and goats have not miscarried, nor have I eaten the rams of your flock.