Named by God

Laban

Meaning and Origin

The name Laban originates from the Hebrew word 'לָבָן' (Lāḇān), which translates to white or white one. This etymology reflects the linguistic and cultural traditions of the ancient Hebrew people, where names often carried symbolic or descriptive meanings. The term 'white' may have been associated with purity, brightness, or even a geographical or physical characteristic of the individual or their environment. In biblical narratives, names like Laban often serve as more than mere identifiers, adding layers of symbolic meaning that enhance the storytelling and theological themes.

Daughters of Laban at the well

Daughters of Laban at the well

Name Laban in languages of the Bible

Laban in languages of the Bible

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Popularity Analysis

The name Laban has transcended its biblical origins to find a modest presence in modern times. It is recorded in 55 countries, with notable popularity in regions such as Kenya, Guadeloupe, and Uganda. This global dispersion reflects the enduring influence of biblical names, particularly in Christian and Jewish communities, where such names are often chosen for their spiritual and historical significance.

CountryVariantRank
KenyaLaban299
GuadeloupeLaban434
UgandaLaban904
ZambiaLaban931
NamibiaLaban1100
RwandaLaban1317
MalawiLaban1547
MontenegroLaban1630
Tanzania, United Republic ofLaban1694
TogoLaban2435
Sri LankaLavan2649
LatviaLabana3858
SlovakiaLaban3872
EstoniaLaaban4808
SwedenLaban5776

Showing top 15 of 55 records

Biblical and Cultural Significance

The biblical figure of Laban is deeply intertwined with significant patriarchal narratives in Genesis. As the son of Bethuel and the brother of Rebekah, Laban's familial connections place him within the lineage of Abraham, making him a pivotal figure in the ancestral history of Israel. His Divine Proximity Index of 96.4/100 underscores his close association with God's unfolding plans, even though his actions often contrast with divine ideals. Similarly, his Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 reflects his indirect impact on the messianic lineage through his daughters Leah and Rachel, who became the matriarchs of the tribes of Israel.

Biblical Context

Laban first appears in Genesis 24:29–60, where he plays a key role in the marriage arrangements between his sister Rebekah and Isaac. His initial hospitality and involvement in this sacred union highlight his importance in the Abrahamic family narrative. However, Laban's character takes a more complex turn in later chapters. When Jacob flees to Haran to escape Esau's wrath, he seeks refuge with Laban, his mother's brother. Over the next two decades, Laban's interactions with Jacob are marked by manipulation and deceit, as he tricks Jacob into marrying Leah instead of Rachel and repeatedly changes the terms of their labor agreement (Genesis 29–31).

Divine Proximity Metrics

God Proximity

SNA: 4.23 | Percentile: 96.43

Biblical References

  • Genesis 29:22
  • Genesis 31:25
  • Genesis 31:48
  • Genesis 30:34
  • Genesis 24:46
Laban | Biblical Name Meaning | Named by God