Genesis 29

Jacob Meets Rachel (v.1–14):

Jacob arrives in the land of the East and meets shepherds at a well.

He helps water the flocks when Rachel, his cousin and Laban’s daughter, arrives.

Jacob is moved emotionally and weeps, revealing his identity to Rachel.

Laban welcomes him warmly and Jacob stays a month.

Jacob Serves for Rachel (v.15–20):

Jacob loves Rachel and offers to work 7 years for her hand in marriage.

The years seem like days to him because of his love for her.

This shows Jacob’s sincerity, work ethic, and deep affection.

Laban’s Deception (v.21–27):

On the wedding night, Laban deceives Jacob by giving him Leah, the older daughter, instead of Rachel.

Jacob discovers the trick the next morning and confronts Laban.

Laban excuses it as a local custom and offers Rachel as well — but Jacob must work another 7 years.

Leah’s Children and God’s Compassion (v.28–35):

Though Jacob loves Rachel more, God sees Leah is unloved and opens her womb.

Leah bears four sons:

Reuben ("See, a son")

Simeon ("Heard")

Levi ("Attached")

Judah ("Praise") — a key figure in the lineage of Christ.

Rachel remains barren at this point.

Key Themes:
Reaping What You Sow: Jacob, who once deceived his father, is now deceived by Laban — showing God's justice and discipline in shaping him.

Love and Patience: Jacob’s deep love for Rachel motivates years of faithful service.

God’s Compassion for the Rejected: God honors Leah, the unloved wife, by making her the mother of several sons — including Judah, ancestor of Jesus.

Family Complexity: The seeds of rivalry and heartache are sown in this polygamous family structure, yet God’s purposes continue.