Genesis 29:16-26

16 Now Laban had two daughters, the name of the elder was Lea, and the name of the younger, Rachel.

17 And the eyes of Lea were weak. But Rachel was beautiful in appearance, and exceedingly fair in countenance.

18 And Jacob loved Rachel, and said, I will serve thee seven years for thy younger daughter Rachel.

19 And Laban said to him, better that I should give her to thee, than that I should give her to another man; dwell with me.

20 And Jacob served for Rachel seven years, and they were before him as a few days, by reason of his loving her.

21 And Jacob said to Laban, Give me my wife, for my days are fulfilled, that I may go in to her.

22 And Laban gathered together all the men of the place, and made a marriage-feast.

23 And it was even, and he took his daughter Lea, and brought her in to Jacob, and Jacob went in to her.

24 And Laban gave to his daughter Lea, Zelpha his handmaid, as a handmaid for her.

25 And it was morning, and behold it was Lea; and Jacob said to Laban, What is this that thou hast done to me? did I not serve thee for Rachel? and wherefore hast thou deceived me?

26 And Laban answered, It is not done thus in our country, to give the younger before the elder.

Genesis 29:16-26 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.