Genesis 29:8-18

8 "We can't," they replied. "We have to wait until all of the flocks are brought together. The stone has to be rolled away from the opening of the well. Then we'll give water to the sheep."
9 He was still talking with them when Rachel came with her father's sheep. It was her job to take care of the flock.
10 Rachel was the daughter of Laban. He was the brother of Jacob's mother. When Jacob saw Rachel with Laban's sheep, he went over to the well. He rolled the stone away from the opening. He gave water to his uncle's sheep.
11 Jacob kissed Rachel. Then he began to sob loudly.
12 He had told Rachel he was a relative of her father. He had also said he was Rebekah's son. Rachel ran and told her father what Jacob had said.
13 As soon as Laban heard the news about his sister's son Jacob, he hurried to meet him. Laban hugged Jacob and kissed him. Then he brought him to his home. There Jacob told him everything.
Then Laban said to him, "You are my own flesh and blood."

Jacob Gets Married to Leah and Rachel

14 Jacob stayed with Laban for a whole month.
15 Then Laban said to him, "You are one of my relatives. But is that any reason for you to work for me for nothing? Tell me what your pay should be."
16 Laban had two daughters. The name of the older one was Leah. And the name of the younger one was Rachel.
17 Leah had weak eyes. But Rachel was beautiful. She had a nice figure.
18 Jacob was in love with Rachel. He said to Laban, "I'll work for you for seven years to get your younger daughter Rachel."

Genesis 29:8-18 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO GENESIS 29

This chapter informs us of Jacob's coming to a well near Haran, where meeting with some shepherds he inquires after Laban, Ge 29:1-8; and there also with Rachel his daughter, the shepherds made known to him, and acquainted her who he was, Ge 29:9-12; upon which she ran to her father, and told him who was at the well, who went forth and brought him to his house, and kindly entertained him, Ge 29:13,14; with whom he agreed to stay and serve seven years for Rachel his daughter, Ge 29:15-20; at the end of which Jacob demands his wife, but instead of Rachel, Leah was brought to him as his wife, Ge 29:21-25; which being discovered, and complained of, it was proposed he should have Rachel also, provided he would serve yet seven years more, to which he agreed, Ge 29:26-30; and the chapter is concluded with an account of four sons being born to Jacob of Leah, Ge 29:31-35.

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