Topical Bible: Contracts: First Contract Between Laban and Jacob for Laban's Daughter

◄ Contracts: First Contract Between Laban and Jacob for Laban's Daughter ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The first contract between Laban and Jacob is a significant event recorded in the Book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 29:15-30. This contract is a pivotal moment in the narrative of Jacob's life and serves as an example of ancient Near Eastern customs regarding marriage and labor agreements.

Context and Background

Jacob, the son of Isaac and Rebekah, fled to his uncle Laban's household in Haran to escape the wrath of his brother Esau. Upon arrival, Jacob encountered Rachel, Laban's younger daughter, and fell deeply in love with her. Recognizing Jacob's potential as a valuable worker, Laban sought to formalize an agreement that would benefit both parties.

The Contractual Agreement

Laban proposed a contract to Jacob, which is detailed in Genesis 29:15-19 :

"Then Laban said to Jacob, 'Because you are my relative, should you therefore serve me for nothing? Tell me, what shall your wages be?' Now Laban had two daughters; the name of the older was Leah, and the name of the younger was Rachel. Leah had weak eyes, but Rachel was shapely and beautiful. Since Jacob loved Rachel, he answered, 'I will serve you seven years for your younger daughter Rachel.' Laban replied, 'Better that I give her to you than to another. Stay here with me.'"

This agreement was based on the cultural norms of the time, where a bride price or dowry was customary. Jacob's offer to work for seven years was a demonstration of his commitment and love for Rachel, as well as a reflection of the economic value placed on marriage alliances.

Fulfillment and Deception

Jacob faithfully served Laban for seven years, which the text describes as seeming "like only a few days to him because of his love for her" (Genesis 29:20). However, Laban, known for his cunning nature, deceived Jacob by substituting Leah, his elder daughter, for Rachel on the wedding night. This act of deception is recounted in Genesis 29:21-25 :

"Finally Jacob said to Laban, 'Grant me my wife, for my time is complete, and I want to sleep with her.' So Laban invited all the men of that place and prepared a feast. But when evening came, Laban took his daughter Leah and gave her to Jacob, and he slept with her. And Laban gave his servant girl Zilpah to his daughter Leah as her maidservant. When morning came, there was Leah! So Jacob said to Laban, 'What is this you have done to me? Was it not for Rachel that I served you? Why have you deceived me?'"

Resolution and Second Contract

In response to Jacob's protest, Laban justified his actions by citing local custom, which dictated that the elder daughter must be married before the younger. Laban then proposed a second contract, allowing Jacob to marry Rachel in exchange for another seven years of service. This is outlined in Genesis 29:26-28 :

"Laban replied, 'It is not our custom here to give the younger daughter in marriage before the older. Finish this week’s celebration, and we will give you the younger one in return for another seven years of work.' And Jacob did just that. He finished the week’s celebration, and Laban gave him his daughter Rachel as his wife."

Significance

The first contract between Laban and Jacob highlights several themes prevalent in the biblical narrative, including love, labor, deception, and the fulfillment of promises. It underscores the importance of contracts and agreements in maintaining social and familial order, while also illustrating the complexities and challenges inherent in human relationships. This episode serves as a reminder of the need for integrity and faithfulness in all dealings, as well as the sovereignty of God in guiding the lives of His people.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 29:15-20,27-30
And Laban said to Jacob, Because you are my brother, should you therefore serve me for nothing? tell me, what shall your wages be?
Nave's Topical Index