Topical Encyclopedia Rachel, a significant matriarch in the biblical narrative, is introduced in the Book of Genesis as the daughter of Laban and the younger sister of Leah. Her encounter with Jacob at a well marks a pivotal moment in the ancestral history of Israel.Biblical Account The account of Rachel meeting Jacob is found in Genesis 29:1-12. Jacob, having fled from his brother Esau, travels to Paddan-aram, the land of his relatives, as instructed by his parents Isaac and Rebekah. Upon his arrival, Jacob encounters a well in the field, where shepherds are gathering to water their flocks. The well is covered by a large stone, which the shepherds wait to remove until all the flocks are gathered. As Jacob speaks with the shepherds, he inquires about Laban, the son of Nahor, and learns that Laban is well. At that moment, Rachel arrives with her father's sheep, for she is a shepherdess. Genesis 29:10-11 describes the scene: "As soon as Jacob saw Rachel, the daughter of his uncle Laban, with Laban’s sheep, he went over and rolled the stone away from the mouth of the well and watered his uncle’s sheep. Then Jacob kissed Rachel and wept aloud." Significance of the Meeting The meeting at the well is laden with symbolic and cultural significance. Wells in the ancient Near East were not only sources of water but also social gathering places, often serving as settings for important encounters. The act of Jacob rolling away the stone single-handedly demonstrates his strength and determination, foreshadowing his future role as a patriarch. Jacob's immediate affection for Rachel is evident in his actions and emotions. His kiss and tears reflect a deep, spontaneous connection, underscoring the providential nature of their meeting. This encounter sets the stage for Jacob's service to Laban in exchange for Rachel's hand in marriage, a service that would last fourteen years due to Laban's deception. Rachel's Role in the Ancestral Narrative Rachel becomes one of Jacob's two wives, and her account is intertwined with themes of love, rivalry, and divine intervention. Though initially barren, Rachel eventually becomes the mother of Joseph and Benjamin, two of the twelve tribes of Israel. Her life and legacy are marked by her enduring love for Jacob and her pivotal role in the unfolding of God's covenant promises to Abraham's descendants. Rachel's meeting with Jacob at the well is a testament to God's providential guidance in the lives of the patriarchs and matriarchs, shaping the destiny of the nation of Israel. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 29:9-12And while he yet spoke with them, Rachel came with her father's sheep; for she kept them. Nave's Topical Index Library Chapter xxix Chapter xxxi The Blessing of Jacob Upon Judah. (Gen. Xlix. 8-10. ) Joseph Attacked by the Archers The Sweet Uses of Adversity The National Oath at Shechem The Almost Christian The World, Created by God, Still Cherished and Protected by Him. ... The Book of Jubilees Letter cxxiii. To Ageruchia. Resources Who was Rachel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the story of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel? | GotQuestions.org How could Jacob not notice he married Leah instead of Rachel? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Rachel: Her Grief in Consequence of Her Sterility Rachel: Jacob Serves Laban for an Additional Seven Years to Obtain Her As his Wife Rachel: Later Productiveness of; Becomes the Mother of Benjamin Rachel: Later Productiveness of; Becomes the Mother of Joseph Rachel: Steals the Household Images (Teraphim, Legal Deed) of Her Father Related Terms |
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