Genesis 29:7

"Look," said Jacob, "it is still broad daylight; it is not yet time to gather the livestock. Water the sheep and take them back to pasture."

Study Bible

“Look,” said Jacob,
Jacob, the son of Isaac and grandson of Abraham, is a central figure in the narrative of Genesis. His journey to Haran is a pivotal moment in his life, marking the beginning of his time away from his family and the start of his own family. This command to "look" indicates his assertive nature and leadership qualities, which are evident throughout his life. Jacob's ability to take charge foreshadows his future role as the patriarch of the twelve tribes of Israel.

“it is still broad daylight;”
The mention of "broad daylight" suggests the time of day when work is typically done. In ancient Near Eastern culture, daylight hours were crucial for agricultural and pastoral activities. This detail highlights the industrious nature of the society and the importance of utilizing daylight for productivity. It also reflects Jacob's awareness of time management and efficiency, traits that would serve him well in his future endeavors.

“it is not yet time to gather the livestock.”
In the context of pastoral life, there were specific times for gathering livestock, usually in the evening when the day’s work was done. Jacob's observation indicates his understanding of shepherding practices, which were essential for survival and prosperity in the ancient world. This knowledge would have been passed down through generations, emphasizing the continuity of tradition and the importance of adhering to established practices.

“Water the sheep and take them back to pasture.”
Watering sheep was a critical task for shepherds, ensuring the health and well-being of the flock. This command reflects Jacob's practical knowledge and concern for the animals, which were valuable assets. The instruction to take them back to pasture suggests a focus on maximizing grazing time, which was vital for maintaining the flock's strength and productivity. This phrase also connects to the broader biblical theme of shepherding, which is often used metaphorically to describe God's care for His people, as seen in passages like Psalm 23 and John 10, where Jesus is depicted as the Good Shepherd.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob
The central figure in this passage, Jacob is on a journey to find a wife from his mother's family. He encounters shepherds and engages in a conversation about the timing of watering the sheep.

2. Shepherds
These are the individuals Jacob addresses. They are responsible for tending to the flocks and are waiting to water them.

3. Haran
The place where Jacob has arrived. It is significant as the home of his relatives and the location where he will meet Rachel.

4. Flocks
The sheep that the shepherds are tending. They are central to the discussion about the appropriate time for watering and pasturing.

5. Well
The location where Jacob meets the shepherds. Wells are often significant in biblical accounts as places of meeting and provision.

Teaching Points

Diligence in Work
Jacob's instruction to the shepherds emphasizes the importance of diligence and not delaying necessary tasks. As Christians, we are called to be diligent in our work and responsibilities.

Discernment of Timing
Understanding the right time for actions is crucial. Jacob's awareness of the time reflects the need for discernment in our decisions and actions.

Divine Encounters in Everyday Life
Just as Jacob's journey led him to a significant encounter at the well, we should be open to divine appointments in our daily routines.

Community and Cooperation
The shepherds' gathering at the well illustrates the importance of community and working together to achieve common goals.

Trust in God's Provision
The well as a source of water symbolizes God's provision. We are reminded to trust in God's provision for our needs.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's interaction with the shepherds at the well reflect his character and priorities? How can we apply this to our own lives?

2. In what ways does the theme of timing in this passage relate to other biblical teachings on discernment and wisdom?

3. How can we recognize and respond to divine encounters in our everyday lives, similar to Jacob's experience at the well?

4. What lessons can we learn from the shepherds' cooperation at the well about working together in our communities and churches?

5. How does the imagery of the well as a source of provision encourage us to trust in God's provision in our own lives? What other scriptures reinforce this trust?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24
The account of Abraham's servant finding a wife for Isaac at a well parallels Jacob's encounter, highlighting themes of divine providence and guidance.

John 4
Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well echoes the theme of wells as places of significant encounters and revelations.

Psalm 23
The imagery of shepherding and caring for flocks connects to the portrayal of God as the Good Shepherd, providing and guiding His people.