were Joseph
Joseph is a pivotal character in the Genesis narrative. His life story, from favored son to slave, and then to a powerful leader in Egypt, is a tale of divine providence and redemption. Joseph's ability to interpret dreams and his rise to power in Egypt foreshadow the deliverance of Israel from famine. His story is often seen as a type of Christ, as he suffers unjustly and later becomes a savior to his people. Joseph's leadership and wisdom are foundational for the future of the Israelites.

and Benjamin.
Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob, is born under tragic circumstances, as Rachel dies during childbirth. His birth is significant, as he becomes the progenitor of the tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Benjamin plays a crucial role in Israel's history, producing notable figures such as King Saul and the Apostle Paul. Benjamin's close relationship with Joseph is highlighted in the narrative, emphasizing themes of family loyalty and reconciliation.

- Rachel, Jacob’s beloved wife (Genesis 29:18, 30), longed for children of her own while her sister Leah bore many. The Lord “remembered Rachel” and opened her womb (Genesis 30:22), confirming His covenant faithfulness.

- By calling Joseph and Benjamin “sons,” Scripture records a literal, historical genealogy that shapes all later tribal identity (Exodus 1:1-5).

- Though Rachel died near Bethlehem (Genesis 35:19), her motherhood lives on through these two tribes, reminding us that God’s purposes often outlast our earthly lifespan.

- The simple verb “were” roots the statement in fact, not legend. Moses is cataloging the family line with the precision seen earlier in Genesis 5 and later in Numbers 26.

- Because God promised Abraham a nation (Genesis 12:2) and repeated that promise to Jacob (Genesis 35:11), this historical note shows the promise taking concrete shape.

- The verb also sets up the tribal lists that will govern land allotments (Joshua 14:1-4) and worship order (1 Chronicles 24:4).

- Firstborn to Rachel, Joseph arrived after years of barrenness (Genesis 30:23-24). His very name means “May He add,” hinting at God’s ongoing blessing.

- Jacob favored Joseph, gifting him the multi-colored robe (Genesis 37:3), yet God used Joseph’s sufferings to preserve Israel during famine (Genesis 45:5-8; 50:20).

- Joseph’s double portion through Manasseh and Ephraim (Genesis 48:5) fulfilled the firstborn blessing normally reserved for Reuben (1 Chronicles 5:1-2).

- Later prophecies celebrate Joseph’s fruitfulness and strength (Deuteronomy 33:13-17), echoing God’s faithfulness first announced in Genesis 35:24.

- The conjunction links two brothers who would often stand together. When Joseph tested his siblings, Judah knew Benjamin’s fate was tied to their father’s life (Genesis 44:30).

- Together these sons of Rachel form a smaller, tight-knit cluster within Israel, mirrored centuries later when Ephraim, Manasseh, and Benjamin camp on the same side of the tabernacle (Numbers 2:18-24).

- The “and” reminds us that God’s blessings are communal; He weaves individual lives into a larger redemptive family.

- Born as Rachel died, Benjamin’s entry was bittersweet (Genesis 35:18). Jacob changed the name “Ben-oni” (son of my sorrow) to “Benjamin” (son of my right hand), signaling honor and hope.

- The tribe of Benjamin later produced King Saul (1 Samuel 9:1-2), Queen Esther’s cousin Mordecai (Esther 2:5), and the apostle Paul (Romans 11:1; Philippians 3:5).

- Prophetic words paint Benjamin as both warrior and beloved: “Benjamin is a ravenous wolf” (Genesis 49:27) and “The beloved of the LORD shall dwell in safety by Him” (Deuteronomy 33:12).

- His territory bordered Judah’s, providing a buffer for Jerusalem (Joshua 18:21-28), and his descendants stood firm with Davidic kings during national schisms (2 Chronicles 11:12).

Genesis 35:24 is more than a genealogical footnote. By naming “Joseph and Benjamin” as “the sons of Rachel,” Scripture anchors God’s promises in real people, tangible history, and unfolding destiny. Rachel’s limited motherhood becomes limitless in impact: Joseph safeguards the family, Benjamin contributes leaders and warriors, and together they testify that every word God speaks—down to the smallest conjunction—proves true.

Parallel Commentaries ...