Genesis 29:31-35

31 When the Lord saw that Leah was hated, he opened her womb, but Rachel was barren.
32 And Leah conceived and bore a son, and she called his name Reuben, for she said, “Because the Lordhas looked upon my affliction; for now my husband will love me.”
33 She conceived again and bore a son, and said, “Because the Lord has heard that I am hated, he has given me this son also.” And she called his name Simeon.
34 Again she conceived and bore a son, and said, “Now this time my husband will be attached to me, because I have borne him three sons.” Therefore his name was called Levi.
35 And she conceived again and bore a son, and said, “This time I will praise the Lord.” Therefore she called his name Judah. Then she ceased bearing.

Genesis 29:31-35 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.

Cross References 10

  • 1. 29:31 Deut. 21:15
  • 2. 29:34 [Num. 18:2, 4]
  • 3. 29:35 Matt. 1:2; [ch. 49:8]
  • 4. 29:31 [ch. 30:22]
  • 5. 29:32 ch. 31:42; Ex. 3:7; 4:31; Deut. 26:7
  • 6. Deuteronomy 21:15
  • 7. [Genesis 30:22]
  • 8. Genesis 31:42; Exodus 3:7; Exodus 4:31; Deuteronomy 26:7
  • 9. [Numbers 18:2, 4]
  • 10. Matthew 1:2; [Genesis 49:8]

Footnotes 4

  • [a]. Reuben means See, a son
  • [b]. Simeon sounds like the Hebrew for heard
  • [c]. Levi sounds like the Hebrew for attached
  • [d]. Judah sounds like the Hebrew for praise
The English Standard Version is published with the permission of Good News Publishers.