Genesis 29:27

Finish this week's celebration, and we will give you the younger one in return for another seven years of work."

Study Bible

Finish this week’s celebration
The phrase refers to the completion of the wedding festivities, which traditionally lasted a week in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The Hebrew word for "week" is "שָׁבוּעַ" (shavua), which literally means a period of seven. This reflects the cultural importance of marriage and the communal joy shared during such events. The celebration was not just a personal affair but a community event, emphasizing the social and covenantal nature of marriage in biblical times.

and we will give you the younger one
This phrase indicates a promise made by Laban to Jacob. The "younger one" refers to Rachel, whom Jacob originally desired to marry. The Hebrew word for "younger" is "קְטַנָּה" (qetannah), which can also imply lesser in rank or status. This highlights the cultural norms where the elder daughter, Leah, was expected to marry first. Laban's offer underscores the patriarchal and familial structures of the time, where daughters were given in marriage by their fathers.

in return for another seven years of work
This part of the verse reveals the transactional nature of marriage arrangements in the ancient world. The Hebrew word for "work" is "עֲבֹדָה" (avodah), which can mean labor or service. Jacob's willingness to work another seven years demonstrates his deep love and commitment to Rachel. It also reflects the economic and social dynamics of the time, where labor could be exchanged for marriage rights, and familial alliances were often solidified through such agreements.

And Jacob did just that
This phrase shows Jacob's compliance and determination. His actions are consistent with his character as a man who perseveres despite challenges. The Hebrew root "עָשָׂה" (asah) for "did" implies action and completion, indicating Jacob's resolve to fulfill his obligations. This reflects a broader biblical theme of faithfulness and endurance in the face of adversity.

He finished the week’s celebration
Reiterating the completion of the wedding festivities, this phrase underscores the importance of fulfilling social and familial obligations. The repetition of the celebration highlights the joy and significance of marriage in the community. It also serves as a narrative device to transition to the next phase of Jacob's life, emphasizing the cyclical nature of biblical accounts where human actions align with divine plans.

and Laban gave him his daughter Rachel as his wife
This final phrase marks the fulfillment of Jacob's desire and the completion of the marriage agreement. The giving of Rachel as a wife signifies the culmination of Jacob's long service and the realization of his love for her. The Hebrew word for "gave" is "נָתַן" (natan), which implies a gift or bestowal, highlighting the cultural practice of fathers giving their daughters in marriage. This act also reflects the providential unfolding of God's plan for Jacob's life, as Rachel would become the mother of Joseph, a key figure in the biblical narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob
The grandson of Abraham, son of Isaac, and brother of Esau. He is in Haran working for Laban to marry Rachel.

2. Laban
Jacob's uncle and father-in-law, who deceives Jacob by giving him Leah instead of Rachel after seven years of labor.

3. Leah
Laban's elder daughter, whom Jacob is tricked into marrying.

4. Rachel
Laban's younger daughter, whom Jacob loves and originally worked seven years to marry.

5. Haran
The place where Laban and his family live, and where Jacob has fled to escape his brother Esau.

Teaching Points

Perseverance in Adversity
Jacob's willingness to work another seven years for Rachel demonstrates perseverance and commitment, even in the face of deceit.

The Consequences of Deception
Laban's deceitful actions serve as a reminder of the moral and relational consequences of dishonesty.

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Despite human deception, God's plan for Jacob's life continues to unfold, showing His sovereignty and faithfulness.

The Value of Patience and Long-Suffering
Jacob's account encourages believers to exercise patience and trust in God's timing, even when circumstances are challenging.

Family Dynamics and God's Plan
The complex family relationships in Jacob's life illustrate how God can work through imperfect situations to fulfill His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's experience with Laban reflect the principle of sowing and reaping found in Galatians 6:7?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in Jacob's life, despite Laban's deceit?

3. How can Jacob's perseverance in working for Rachel inspire us in our own commitments and relationships?

4. What lessons can we learn from Laban's actions about the impact of deception on family and community?

5. How does the account of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan for our lives, even when things don't go as expected?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 29:18-30
Provides the context of Jacob's agreement with Laban and the subsequent deception.

Genesis 31:41
Jacob recounts his years of service to Laban, highlighting the hardship and deceit he endured.

Hosea 12:12
References Jacob's time in Aram (Haran) and his service for a wife, emphasizing the theme of labor and perseverance.

Galatians 6:7
The principle of sowing and reaping, which can be related to Jacob's experiences of deception and eventual blessing.