When Jacob flees from Laban, Rachel steals his household gods.

> 
> When Laban had gone to shear his sheep, Rachel stole her father’s
>  household gods.
>  Genesis 31:19 (NIV)
> 
> 
> 

Jacob seems pretty serious about the household gods too.

> 
> But if you find anyone who has your gods, that person shall not live.
>  In the presence of our relatives, see for yourself whether there is
>  anything of yours here with me; and if so, take it.” Now Jacob did not
>  know that Rachel had stolen the gods.
>  Genesis 31:32 (NIV)
> 
> 
> 

What are they talking about? Are these idols?