An Exposition of Genesis, Genesis · Chapter 29
CHAP. XXIX.
IN part of the former Chapter from the section beginning at Ver. 10. the history of the Church in Jacob began, of whom we have read, of his departure from his Fathers house, and Gods special providence toward him; in part of his way even unto Bethel.
In this Chapter the history proceedeth, wherein we may note these generall heads.
1. Jacobs journy and arrival to the end of it. Ver. 1.14.
2. Jacobs Covenant with Laban to serve him. Ver. 15.20.
3. Jacobs marriage, with Labans guile Ver. 21.30.
4. Jacobs seed by Leah his wife. Ver. 31.35.
In the fi…st general these perticulars occurre.
1. His safe progresse to the place of Laban.
2. His providential espying a well and parly with the shepheards. Ver. 2.8.
3. His meeting with, and saluting Rachel. Ver. 9.12.
4. His entertainment with his uncle Laban. Ver. 13.14.
The first of these carrieth in it these particulars.Ver. 1.
1. His progresse, And Jacob lifted up his feet, Sept. and Cald. to the same. Here.
1. The term of connection may be noted. And or then, that is, immediatly after Gods appearance to him, and his ingagement made to God; this quickens and incourageth him unto his journy, when he hath God, and Christ, Angels, and promises with him.foreign
2. Iacobs act under providence, he took up his feet. Which ours read he went on his journy, but the phrase original seem's to to carry in it alacrity, agility, and speed in his way, having had such a good nights lodging and comfortable viaticum. Ps. 74.3.
2. His arrival, And went, or came to the land of the sonnes of the east. Cald same. — The land of the east, to Laban the son of Bethuel, the brother of Rebekah, the mother of Esau and Iacob, Sept. Herein note.
1. His continued motion, he went or walked on, or persisted going.
2. The term unto which he reached, the land of the sonnes of the east, so was that of Laban viz. Mesopotamia from Canaan. Iob. 1.3. Isai. 42.2. Gen. 12.1.
Learn hence.
D. 1. Gods gracious appearances to a soul may well incourage it to go any whither where God would have them.
D. 2. Incouragements from God and ingagements to him will make a man speed in the way where God calleth.
D. 3. Providence bringeth an obedient soul safely to the place appointed for him.
D. 4. Providence sendeth to every part his servants to raise his Church. The east is not exempted. Abraham from hence, Job in this place were eminent, and now Jacob is sent to it. Ver. 2.
2. The next particular obvious is Iacobs providentiall guidance to a place & persons discovering his approach to his journi…s end. Whe…ein we have to note.
1. His providential happening upon the place, so herein are related.
1. His discovery which he maketh, And he saw & behold a well in the field, Sept. and Cald. to the same. Where we read these things made out to his eye.
1. A well in the field or plain, whether he came, such as was needfull, but it seemes rare in that country, by the gathering to gather unto it, so his Fathers man met Rebekah at a well. Providence so directs. Some note also Christs meeting the woman of Samaria at a well, and allegorize the well of salvation by it; but we are in the history of Iacob.
2. Three flocks of sheep, And behold there were three flocks of sheep lying by it, These are also allegoriz'd by the Hebrews to be the Church lying by the well of salvation, Priests, Levits, and Israel; but we keep to the letter. The reason of their being there is added; For out of the well they watred the floks.
3. A stone, And a great stone upon the mouth of the well, doubtles to preserve the water and keep from hurt or dammage any cattell, or other, that might fall in. Ver. 2.Ver. 2.
2. A description of the custome of the place in 4 particulars.
Ver. 3.1. And there were gathered there all the flocks, that is, they used to bring them together all about the well at one time.
2. And they rolled the stone from the wells mouth, that is, some, or all the shepheards together, because it was great.
3. And they watred the sheep, that is all their flocks in the troughs, which were made to hold water for that pu…pose.
4. And they returned the stone upon the wells mouth to its place, doubtles to secure their waters and to preserve it pure, this was the custom of that place▪ so to exspect one another and help to publick advantages that might redound to all.
Learn thence.
D. 1. Providence maketh Gods servants to see in due time some characters of their being neer their journies end, & accomplishment of his promise.
D. 2. Things of usuall account by some, may be made by providence of special use to comfort others. So the well, &c. here spoken of Jacob. Ver. 2.
D. 3 To seek community of good in neight bourhood is the very Law of nature. Not each to prevent other.
D. 4. Preservation of publick commodities for life & comfort, is that which nature will teach men. It is unnatural to destroy. Ver. 3.4.5.
2. His discourse with the shepheards is related, whom he found upon the place, and it is taken up in 5 in tercourses between them and him.
1. About themselves, wherein.
1. Jacob inquires,Ver. 4. And Jacob said unto him, my Brethren whence are ye? Sept and Cald. same. Wherein.
1. The inquirer, Jacob a traveller.
2. His compellation, full of love, my brethren, such were the salutes of Jacob to strangers.
3. His inquiry of their place or dwelling, whence are ye? of what place or city, or the like?
2. The shepheards answear, And they said, of Charan are we, Sept & Cald same, wherein is a kind …eply to a courteous inquity which giveth occasion of farther discourse.
Learn here.
D. 1. It becommeth Gods travellers to intreat kindly all upon whom providence may cast them.
D. 2. Humanity will return kindnes, for kindnes in discourse.
D. 3. Providence casts his servants in their travels somtimes upon such as may direct them. Ver. 4.
2. About Laban, wherein he inquires.
1. Of thei… knowledge, herein.
1. His question, And he said unto them, know ye Laban the son of Nachor? Cald. same. Sept. Achor. Herein we see he inquireth of Laban as son to Nachor, who was immediatly the son of Bethuel, yet known at that time to be issue of Nachor whose name was more eminent, so that the city bore it.
2. Their answear, And they said we know him, Sept. and Cald. to the same. Wherein we perceive, Nahor, Abrahams brother, was famous in that place, and that by their language there remained some impressions of the true religion there, which Nahor professed, though mixed with corruptions. Here God casts Jacob upon some that knew how to direct him. Ver. 5.Ver. 5.
2. He inquires of his welfare.
1. He speak's, And he said to them is it peace to him? Cald same. Sept. foreign, Is he in health? under the notion of peace, he inquireth of all his welfare, that which was desirable to such relations.
2. They answear.
1. To his question, And they said peace. Or as Sept. He is in health, all is well with him.
2. To his further satisfaction shewing him the approach of his daughter, And behold Rachel his daughter commeth with the flocke. — Came with the sheepe of her Father, Sept. Cald to the same. Here providence pointeth out another comfort to Jacob, sending out Rachel at this instant, and busy in an honest calling, in bringing the sheep to water. So by steps Iacob is comforted after his soar travel. Ver. 6.Ver. 6.
Learn from it.
D. 1. Providence maketh questions, meanes to the satisfaction of his.
D. 2. Sonnes are best known by the most eminent of their ancestours.
D. 3. Nahor and his descent, with their way & religion, were known in Syria. Ver. 5.
D. 4. It is but natures dictate to inquire of the welfare of related friends.
D. 5. Providence orders peace to others, that with them his servants may have peace.
D. 6. Providence orders meeting of friends and comforts which man cannot project, and doth little think of. Here Jacob meets Rachel. Ver 6.
3. Jacob discourseth with them about the flockes as a man skilled in that husbandry; wherein we have.
1. His proposal, wherein.Ver. 7.
1. He notes the time of the day, And he said, behold yet the day is great, or there is much day, that is, it is early yet, and not to evening, Sept. and Cald Much day. It seemeth it might be somewhat past noon.
2. He notes the season of the posture of their flocks, It is not time that the cattel should be gathered together, Sept. and Cald. to the same. It was not folding time which was neer even.
3. He adviseth them, Water ye the flock and go and feed ye, i. e. The flock, Sept. and Cald. to the same. Herein though a stranger, yet he speaketh to the profit of them, to whom he was unknown, advising good, for them and their flocks. Ingenuity doth all this. Ver. 7.
2. Their reply, wherein they shew the reason why they did not presently do after Iacobs advice. Wherein note.
1. The cause is given from their impotency, And they said we cannot, Ver. 8.Sept. and Cald. same. This is carried unto a double sense.
1. Of power natural, we cannot, that is, we have not strength enough with us to do it.
2. Of power moral, which notes just leave and liberty, we cannot of right do it, until the rest come. The former seemeth rather to be intended, by the proofs following, yet a truth may be in the second also.
2. The proof of the reason.
1. From want of their company, Until all the flocks be gathered together, Cald. same. — Until all the shepheards be gathered together. If it be meant of shepheards, then it proves the want of strength, but if of flockes, it proves their moral inability, that they must not prevent one another.
2. From the motion of the stone, And they roll the stone from the mouth of the well, Sept. and Cald. same. This argueth want of help before; it may also carry in it consent and agreement between them.
3. Their concession to Iacob when these things are done, Th…n we water the sheep, Sept. and Cald. to the same. The term of connection is best read here a term of order, then we water. Thus they return a reasonable account without snarling at a strangers advice.
Learn from it.
D. 1. Providential meetings may justly occasion providential advice from strangers to others.
D. 2. Time and busines should be rationally mannaged to the improvement of both. Ver. 7.
D. 3. Ingenuity taketh not amisse occasional advice from strangers.
D. 4 Ingenuous men, if they follow not counsail, will give their reason.
D. 5. Impotency to duty, justly may excuse it.
D. 6. Iniquity must not be done to others for private advantage. Ver. 8.
3. The next providential event is Iacobs meeting with Rachel reported. Ver. 9.10.11.12. Wherein may be noted.
Ver. 9.1. The season of it, Yet he speaking with them, or while he was yet speaking to them, Sept. i. e. to the shepheards In that very moment
2. Rachels accesse, wherein.
1. Her approach, And Rachel came, — Behold the daughter of Laban came. Sept. Here is her providential accesse at this time.
2. The manner of her approach, With the sheep which were her fathers. Sept. and Cald. same. As a shepheardesse she commeth, such it seemes was the simple fashion of these times and countries.
3. The reason of her so comming, For she was feeding them. She was a shepheardesse.
Note here.
D. 1. Gods good hand sendeth the mercy somtimes to his servants while they inquire about it.
D. 2. The eminent in his Church God hath called from the lowest condition in the world.
D. 3. It is not unbeseeming the greatest ladies to be found in honest labour. It was not to Rachel. It sutes the mother of the Church to be a shepherdesse. Ver. 9.
3. Jacobs carriage to her upon her approach in three particulars.
1. In his action and undertaking for her, where we have.
1. The occasion of it, And it was when Jacob saw Rachel the daughter of Laban his mothers brother, and the sheep of Laban his mothers brother. Sept. and Cald. same. upon sight & discovery of these he bestirres himself.
2. The action itself, And or that Jacob went neer, and rolled the stone from the wells mouth and watered the sheep of Laban his mother s brother. Sept and Cald. same.
1. His readines in moving.
2. His paines in rolling away the stone.
3. His kindnes in watering his unkles sheep appear; so providence directs to do toward his future entertainment. The Rabbins are fabulous about the strength of Jacob in rolling away the stone; but no need of fables. Whether by himself, or with the help of others he did it, no matter; but probably it was by himself. Ver. 10.
Observe we.
D. 1. Discoveries of such as are neer in the flesh is enough in nature to move for doing them good.
D. 2. Readines and pains to shew kindnes unto friends in the flesh becommeth both grace and nature. Ver. 10.Ver. 10.
2. In his salutation. Wherein.
1. His external expression is related,Ver. 11. And Jacob kissed Rachel, Sept. & Cald. same. This expression was doubtles natural, and a signal of affection inward; which however abused by some to shame, yet it is used as a sincere signal of natural affection, and commanded for spiritual uses also.
2: His internal affection and moving of bowells toward her, And he lifted up his voice, and wept, Sept. and Cald. same.
1. The motive of this affection seems to be joy, where the heart was overcharged with the concurrence of so many good providences together, in the happy meeting of those whom God intended to make one flesh, and a visible fountain of his Church, though yet unknown.
2. The nature of the affection, it was melting and powring out the soul in teares, and that not silently, but with exclamation & extended voice, eminency of Gods goodnes thus stirred up vehemency of affection.
Learn thence.
D. 1. Sutable expressions of affection to dear friends is beseeming both grace and nature.
D 2. Inward motions send out true signals of sincere affection.
D. 3. Joy in unexpected good befalling Saints may melt them into teares.
D. 4. Eminency of providences concurring, may stirre up vehemency of affections, even to transports. Ver. 11.
3. In his narration and discovery of himself unto her, wherein we have.
1. His report in two particulars.
Ver. 12.1. In his relation to her Father. And Jacob told Rachel that he was her fathers brother, Sept. same. — That he was the son of her fathers sister. Cald. A brother to her father is the Hebr. as the custom of speaking was among kindred.
2. In his explication of himself, And that he was the son of Rebekah, Sept. and Cald. same. This explicates in what degree he was her fathers brother, even his Nephew and her cosen-german.
2. Her reception of it, And she ran and told her father, Cald. same. — According to those words, Sept.
1. She received it joyfully.
2. She declareth it to her father effectually.
Quest. It is inquired whether all these carriages are related in order as they were acted?
Answ. 1. It is thought by some that the order is the writers as here expressed, and not the actors.
2. Yet no unseemlines was it, if things were acted as here related, onelyonly it is conjectured by some that he revealed himself, first and then saluted her, and acted for her as reported, no inconvenience either way.
It instruct's us.
D. 1. Self discovery is proper, when God sends friends to meet at unawares.
D. 2. Ingenuity gladly receiveth the manifestation of neer friends in the flesh.
4. The last providential event in his arrival is his entertainment with Laban. V. 13.14. Wherein.
1. Labans carriage, and herein.
Ver. 13.1. The occasion of Labans respect, And it was as Laban heard the hearing of Jacob his sisters son. — The name of Jacob, &c. Sept. Cald. as. Hebr. upon the very first newes by Rachel.
2. His speed to him, And he ran to meet him, Sept. and Cald. same. Natural affection was stirring and speeding him; when he heard he made haste to see him.
3. His salutation of him, And he imbraced him, and kissed him, Sept. and Cald. to the same. Both expressions of much natural affection to him. So bowels work now; though afterward he dealt very hardly with him
4. His entertainment, And he brought him in unto his house, Sept. and Cald. same. There to repose himself and abide with him all the time which God appointed. Hitherto affection was quicke, & entertainment free.
2. Jacobs discovery of himself more fully then unto him, And he declared to Laban all these words. — All his words or matters, Sept. Cald. as Hebr. that is, he doubtles acquainted his unkle,
1. The occasion of his comming from home so naked.
2. Gods presence with him in the way.
3. All the affaires of his fathers family which were convenient, by which he might ascertain Laban, that he was indeed his sisters son. Whereof there was but need, seeing he came not into Syria so attended as his fathers servant had done before him; which might have bred jealousies in Laban. Ver. 13.
3. Labans reply unto his satisfaction.
1. In word,Ver. 14. And Laban said unto him surely thou art my bone and my flesh. — Of my bones, &c. Sept. — Thou art my kinsman and my flesh. Cald. Herein he acknowledgeth natural interest and neernes to comfort him.
2. In deed, And he abode with him a monteh of dayes. Cald. same. — And he was with him, &c. Here was a sutable dealing with him for present as with his own flesh and bone; however afterward he turned unnatural,
It teacheth us.
D. 1. Nature turns not away the ear from the tidings of neer kinred to shew them kindnes.
D. 2. Even nature will make speed to salute and entertain with kindnes kindred in the flesh.
D. 3. It is but equal to declare relations to friends, and providences from God to satisfy friends unknown. Ver. 13.
D. 4. Nature acknowledgeth neer kindred to be flesh and bone to itself.
D. 5. Hospitable entertainment is but sutable to a mans own flesh and bone.
D. 6. It is mercy for Jacob to be acknowledged, in his pilgrimage, the flesh and blood of Laban, how much more to be the flesh and bone of Christ. Eph. 5. Ver. 14.
2. The next general head of this Chapter, is Jacobs Covenant with …aban to serve him. Ver. 15.20. Wherein note.
1. Labans reasonable proposition unto Iacob. Ver. 15. Herein.
Ver. 15.1. The first mover, not Jacob to aske, but Laban to give, And Laban said unto Jacob. Or then, after a months experience of him in his family, Sept. and Cald. same.
2. The reason of this motion, which was, as he conceived, the unreasonablenes of Iacobs serving him for nought, Because my brother thou, shouldest thou even serve me for nought. — Because thou art my brother thou shalt not serve me in vain, or for nought, Sept. Cald. as Hebr.
1. The expostulation may be resolved into a negative as the Gr. doth, thou shalt not serve me for nought; so farre Laban speaketh justice, that the labourer is worthy of his hire.
2. The seeming reason of such free service, because of kindred, shouldest thou labour for me in vain because thou art my brother? that was his Nephew as hath bin noted. This might be a pretence, he is my Nephew, he may serve for nothing, but this was unreasonable in Labans account: nay because a brother and yet will serve me, he deserves the more. Unreasonable is it that such a servant should labour for nought.
3. His motion itself, Declare to me what shall be thy wages, Sept. and Cald. same. He puts it unto Iacob to demand his hire what he will. Tell me what I shall return as wages for thy service? With what a self-seeking mind laban thus bespeaks him, is easily to be guessed by his after dealings with him; yet with this covetous self-seeking man this principle is granted, that every labourer, especially a neer kinsman should not serve & take paines for nought. Thou art my flesh & my bone & shouldest thou serve me for nought? Yet as Jacob complains at last he would have sent him away empty, unles God had better provided for him.
Learn thence.
D. 1. Honest gracious soules dare not be idle when they do but visit friends. Jacobs. From connection.
D. 2. Laborious men in Gods fear, will want no hirers; Laban lookes after such a servant.
D. 3. Labans are first motioners for Jacobs; the covetous Masters for honest servants,
D. 4. The most unrighteous men may grant principles of equity which they never mean to practise. So Laban.
D. 5. The faithfull servant and labourer is worthy of his due reward. A brother servant that is faithfull is worthy of any wages reasonably to be expected. Ver. 15.
2. Jacobs reply to this followeth. Ver. 16.17.18. Herein.
1. Occasionally is a narration of Labans progeny in daughters. which is reported.
1. Generally, And to Laban were 2 daughters, Sept. and Cald. same. Here is the number.
2. Specially are they described.
1. By their names, The name of the great or elder was Leah, and the name of the little or yonger, was Rachell — Name to the second, &c. Sept. and Cald. as Hebr. Ver. 16.Ver. 16.
2. By their persons, And the eyes of Leah were tender. — Weak. Sept. — Fair, Cald. And Rachel was fair in form, and fair in coun tenance, — And very beautifull in countenance. Sept. Cald. as Hebr. Ver. 17.Ver. 17.
2. Jacobs answear to Labans proposition, wherein.
1. His affection is declared, And Jacob loved Rachel, Sept. & Cald. same.Ver. 18. Providence so had in that time of converse so pitched his heart, as it seemeth, to desire her as a wife.
2. His offer to Laban, And he said I will serve thee seven years for Rachel thy yongest daughter, Sept. and Cald. same. Whereas others got wives by giving dowries, Jacob procures his wife by service. Herein,
1. His work, service, keeping sheep, &c.
2. His time, 7 years.
3. His wages, a wife, Rachel, under providence his own affection pitcheth upon this. To this purpose Isaac sent him to Syria.
Learn thence.
D. 1. Providence ordereth the fruit of the womb to wicked parents for his Churches sake and its increase.
D. 2. Names and persons are requisit to be mentioned in sacred history for speciall uses. Ver. 16.
D. 3. Bodily Infirmities, and perfections are the issues of Gods wise dispensations to his creatures. V. 17
D. 4. VnderUnder providence, meet attractives of affection, in order unto marriage may have influence upon choice.
D. 5. Honest indeavours and deliberat expectation carry on the condition of marriage more successefully.
D. 6. Low hath bin the condition of the greatest Fathers of the Church on earth. To serve for a wife. Hos. 12.12.
3. Labans agreement, wherein we have to note.
1. The subtilty of the man, And Laban said it is better that I should give her to thee than that I should give her to another man. Sept. and Cald. same. He answeares not positively, I will give her to thee, though Jacob takes it so for granted, but it is better that I should do so; and yet what a cheat he put upon him afterward, is evident in the history, see both subtilty with Iacob, and iniquity to his daughter to sell her for a servant.
2. The acceptance of Iacobs service, Abide thou with me. — Dwell with me. Sept. and Cald. Sit down with me, now set up your rest and go on and serve me. Ver. 19,Ver. 19.
Learn hence.
D. 1. Covetous Masters are subtile in their agreements to deceive simple soules.
D. 2. Covetous fathers value children at no great rate if they may gain by them.
D. 3. Profitable servants are easily entertained by covetous Masters, Ver. 19.
4. Jacobs assent to Laban and his service performed.
Ver. 20.1. His service is reported to the full time, Iacob served for Rachel seven years, Sept and Cald. same. so he honestly performes his word, he faileth not a day with Laban.
2. His pleasure or willingnes in his service, And they were in his eyes as dayes ones or few. Sept. and Cald. same. Here it is expressed chearfullnes in his labours, that which would seem long to men of other spirits.
3. His reason why all was so easy, In his loving her, or because he loved her. Sept. and Cald. to the same. This was reason with respect to Rachel, but with respect to God conscience of duty, and the fear of God kept him in this frame of spirit all the time.
Learn from it.
D. 1. Humble soules grudge not at hard labours to attain their honest ends.
D. 2. Chearfulnes will cause hard & long service to seem easy and short.
D. 3. Providence concurring with mans just desires, giveth in alacrity in hardest work Or the hope of this.
3. The next general head in this Chapter contain's the history of Jacobs marriage, Ver. 21.30. Wherein are.
1. Jacobs just demand of his wages. Ver. 21.Ver. 21.
2. Labans guileful return. Ver. 22.23.24.
3. Jacobs challenge of him for his falsehood. Ver. 25.
4. Labans apologie for his fact. Ver. 26.27.
5. Iacobs consent to a new motion. Ver. 28.
6. Labans performance at last. Ver. 28.29 30.
In the first of these we have to consider these particulars.
1. Jacobs demand, And or then Iacob said to Laban, give my wife. — Give me my wife, Sept. supplieth, Cald. as Hebr.
1. The demander is Iacob, that had done his articles of Covenant faithfully, and now desires his wages.
2. The demanded, or party of whom he makes demand, Laban an hard and deceitful Master, as well as uncle.
3. The demand▪ itself, give me my wife, according to Covenant. Wherein.
1. He acknowledgeth the fathers right.
2. He desireth but the fathers promise which he was bound to perform: he walks regularly in seeking his wife.
2. The reason of his demand in present, Because my dayes are fulfilled, Sept. same. — The dayes of my service or bondage. Cald. As if he should say, I have performed my Covenant and finished my 7 years service, therefore now it is just for you to perform your part and give me Rachel to wife.
3. The end of his demand, And I will go in unto her, or that I may. — I will. Cald. — That I may go in, Sept. This end was cohabitation and injoyment of her as a wife; as she was his espoused wife by Covenant before, the time of contract being expired, now he requireth her in marriage and to injoy her as a wife.
Learn from it.
D. 1. Faithful and chearful service may justly require its due reward. So Jacob.
D. 2. Times of Covenant-contract being expired, perfect marriage is desireable. So Jacob askes his wife.
D. 3. Full term of service being compleated, liberty and promised reward is justly desired.
D. 4. Righteous soules dare not take wives from fathers, but patiently expect the fathers gift.
D. 5. Conjugal love may well desire conjugal injoyment in Gods time. Ver. 21.
To the second, Labans guilful dealing with Jacob upon his demand; wherein we may note.
1. His solemne invitation of friends to the wedding. And Laban gathered all the men of the place, Sept. and Cald. same. that is doubtles all his neighbours and friends inhabitants in Charran, not all the citizens simply. Such were former customes to celebrat marriage with such solemnity.
2. His consummation of the marriage. And he made a feast, Cald. same. And he made the marriage. So Sept. Wherein.
1. By the phrase of making the feast, is implied the marriage, or actuall giving of Rachel unto Iacob to wife in the presence of those witnesses and his accepting her. As the 70 do paraphrase.
2. By it is noted their general rejoycing which the bridegrome and bride; which custome was continued to Christs dayes and after; mourning is no fit carriage for a bridegroom day, but feasting. foreign in Gr. notes both.
It teacheth us.
D. 1. Solemne invitations of friends to marriages, for witnesses & helps of good to the married, are according to Gods will.
D. 2. Marriage is most seemly compleated in a congregation, and with publick solemnity. Laban gathered, &c.
D. 3. Feasting and rejoicing are most proper for the times of marriage. Ver. 22.Ver. 22.
2. His fallacious dealing. Wherein we may note.
Ver. 23.1. The time of acting this deceit, And it was in the evening, Cald. same. — And it was evening. Sept. In the day time he pretented Rachel as the bride, but at night he sheweth Jacob a tricke. Night is the fittest time for dishonesty.
2. His preparation to it, And he took Leah his daughter. Sept and Cald. same. This noteth his attiring her with a vaile and conducting of her undiscovered, so he fitted the matter to deceive.
3. His resignation of her into Jacobs possession, An he brought her to him, and he went in unto her, Sept and Cald. to the same. See both a stupration of Leah and a deprivation of Rachel from her husband, & a prodition of Iacob to uncleannes. Ver. 23.
4. His assignation of a servant to his daughter, And Laban gave unto his daughter Leah, Zilpah his maid for an hand-maid for her, Sept. and Cald. to the same. Herein.
1. His respect to his daughter is declared, not to bestow her without some attendance, therefore he appoints her an hand-maid.
2. Probably it might be such a maid as might help on his own fallacious dealing with Iacob. Masters and servants are usually combined in such stratagems of deceit. However.
Learn from it.
D. 1. The evening, night, or darknes, is the season fittest for acting wickednes.
D. 2. Wicked fathers dispose their children to wickednes like their own.
D. 3. Sin will make men prostitute their daughters to filthynes for advantage.
D. 4. Gracious men may be drawn into evil by the slight of deceivers, being not wary of it. Ver. 23.
D. 5. It is but just for parents in disposing children, to supply them with helps convenient.
D. 6. Guileful fathers may give such servants to their children as may best serve their designes to deceive. Ver. 24.Ver. 24.
To the third, which is Iacobs challenge upon Laban, wherein also we have to note.
1. The discovery of Labans falsehood, and herein.
1. The season,Ver. 25. And it was in the morning. Cald. same. — And the morning was. Sept. This is the season of revealing things hidden in the darke; when the light ariseth; then faces are discovered.
2. The discovery of the person to Labans reproach, her shame, and Jacobs trouble, And behold she was Leah, Cald. same. — It was Leah. Sept. Herein appears Labans wickednes, and Jacobs vexation to perceive how he was deluded.
Quest. How could this be hid till the morning?
Answer. 1. Subtilty might be used in her silence or voice, thereby to deceive Jacob.
2. Inadvertency with Jacob not suspecting such false dealing; no drunkennes as some argue.
3. Providence ordering all these affairs so determins it, that sooner it was not discovered.
3. Jacobs challenge or sharpe contest with him about this matter in 3 questions.
1. Why hast thou done this to me? Sept. & Cald. same. What is this which thou hast done? It is an interrogation of indignation charging him with such an unnatural act, that never was heard of from a father to a child; or from a man of any honest profession to a neighbour, what is this which thou hast done? It is monstrous, it hath no parrallel, horrid deceit.
2 Did not I serve with thee for Rachel? Sept. and Cald. same. This is a question of conviction; was not my Covenant to serve for Rachel? Can you deny it? O false man, that should so shamefully abuse his Children, and breake Covenant.
3. And why hast thou deceived me? foreign; Sep.— Why hast thou lyed to me. Cald. This is a question condemning him, as if in plain terms he should say, thou art a cheater and hast deceived me of my wife, and broken Covenant, and caused other wickednes, how or why couldest thou do this?
Learn hence.
D. 1. The day revealeth that evill usually which the night covereth, sin may hide itself a litle while til the morning.
D. 2. Seeming Rachel over night is found Leah in the morning. Fair offers to be deceits.
D. 3. Honest soules, though drawn into errour, are full of indignation against it, and the cursers of it when discovered.
D. 4. Plain Covenant work is sufficient to convince deceivers that forsake it.
D. 5. Service for Rachel should have Rachel for its reward.
D. 6. It is grosse falshood and deceit to deny covenant-reward, and adulterate it with worse. Ver. 25.
4. Labans apology for his fact to Jacob followeth. This is made up of two notorious shifts. Ver. 26.27.
1. The pretense of the custom of the place,Ver. 26. And Laban said it is not so done in our place to give the yonger before the first-born. — It is not so in this place, and to give the yonger before the elder. Sept. — The lesse before the greater. Cald. See the best of his excuse for the base prostration of his daughter, and treacherous dealing with Jacob; which cannot lessen his fault before God or men.
1. What custom of man must prevail against providence, if God call the yonger to marry before the elder?
2. If such a custom were, why did he not tell Jacob so, before he made Covenant for Rachel? This therefore is but a meer dishonest shift.
3. Such custom, were it so, did not allow him to thrust a wife upon any, against his will, it was therefore abominable treachery and wickednes. Ver. 26.
2. The proposal of a way for satisfaction to Jacob.
1. He proposeth to Jacob to accept of Leah to wife, Fulfil thou the 7 of this. That is, seven dayes of solemnizing that marriage and so acknowledge Leah for thy wife, which is carried in the phrase, Sept. and Cald. to the same. The phrase used notes only seven; years or dayes are not expressed, but must be understood as the truth of the thing related requireth. The Geneva transtatours read 7 years, but doubtles without ground, for considering the birth of the children and the barrennes of Rachel, and the time of bearing Joseph, she must needs be Jacobs wife before the second seven years compleated. It is therefore here truly read 7 dayes, or a week, which was kept to solemnize marriages in feasting, among those eastern nations. Herein he imposeth an unlawful thing, to take one that was not his wife.
2. He promiseth, And we will give thee also this, or there shall be given, &c. Cald. same. — I will give, &c. Sept. that is, after thou hast taken Leah and acknowledged her for thy wife, then this, even Rachel, shall be given to thee also for a wife. This he supposeth will hide his fault, and satisfy Jacob, if he may have Rachel at last, though it be with Leah also; that which he intended not. A subtile fetch of a deceiver.
3. The condition of this promise also; For the service which thou shalt serve with me yet seven other years. Cald. same. — Work which thou mayest work, Sept. Here he sheweth himself what he is, and at what he aim's, covetousnes, oppression for self-gain, is that which sets him on worke in this designe; wrong to daughters, oppression to sonnes, do not sticke with him, so he may get gain and injoy service without wages. Ver. 27.Ver. 27.
Learn thence.
D. 1. The wickedest men will make excuse to justify the vilest actions.
D. 2. Customes of men and places are thought enough to justify the transgression against Gods commands.
D. 3. Mans nature is forward to set up customes against the providence of God. Ver. 26.
D. 4. It is the property of wicked men to propose right, by imposing more wrong.
D. 5. VponUpon unrighteous conditions wicked men are willing to yeeld unto Gods servants their right.
D. 6. Covetousnes & oppression make wicked men carelesse of what injuries they do to children or others. Ver. 27.
Ver. 28.5. Jacobs consent, And Iacob did so and fulfilled her week, Sept. and Cald. to the same. i. e. Iacob accepted Leah for his wife, and kept on the marriage-solemnity for 7 dayes as it was proposed.
Quest. Did Iacob well in taking Leah thus?
Answ. Surely. 1. To take a wife against consent, and treacherously imposed, is not right.
2. Yet his consent afterward might make the marriage legitimate.
3. In fine Iacob cannot be excused from infirmity in it, but that he did offend, however the hand of God over-ruled it.
6. Labans performance followeth at last, wherein.
1. Labans work in a double gift.
1. Of his daughter to Jacob, And he gave unto him Rachel his daughter for a wife to him, Sept. and Cald. to the same. Here at last he performes his promise when he had bound Jacob to more servitude, and he accepted Leah.
2. Of a maid to his daughter, And Laban gave to Rachel his daughter Bilhah his hand maid for an hand maid to her. Ver. 29.Ver. 29. Cald. same. — Ballen, Sept. This is all her dowry expressed, onelyonly a maid-servant to attend her, so you have Labans performance.
2. Iacobs injoyment, wherein are related to us.
1. His second marriage, And he went in also unto Rachel, Sept. and Cald. same. It is the phrase which denoteth full marriage when man and wife cohabit and take actual possession of each other, so did he to Leah before.
2. His affection unto this wife, And he loved also Rachel before Leah. — More than Leah, Sept. Cald. Upon her, first his affection was set, which made his 7 years service seem but little and light; to her his heart goeth out more than to Leah.
3. His submission to Labans terms, And he served with him yet seven other years. Sept. and Cald. same. So humble Jacob yeeldeth to an unjust and wicked Laban, and suffers oppression rather than contend with him.
Quest. Was double marriage, and that of two sisters lawful?
Answer. 1. It is expressely against Gods law from the beginning.
2. What extraordinary dispensation God might give in this case is not expressed; as in other cases he hath done it, of these wives & their hand-maids the tribes of Israel arose which made up the Church of God.
3. It is faulty by the law, and therefore not to be imitated by us. Ver. 30.Ver. 30.
D. 1. Simple soules may be over-reached to yeeld unto the unequal demands of men.
D. 2. Wicked men, when their own turn is served, are willing to perform promise unto the righteous. V. 28.
D. 3. Covetous Fathers are willing to turn their Children of, with a slave for a dowry. Ver. 29.
D. 4. Gracious soules, under the wise ordering of God, may yeeld to that which is hard and grievous to and for them.
D. 5. True affection will abide, and abound where it hath a solid rooting.
D. 6. Honest soules desire to suffer wrong in hardest service rather than contend with wicked Rulers. Ver. 30.
4. The last general of this Chapter containeth the history of Iacobs issue by Leah, even 4 sonnes. In the order whereof we have to note.
1. A memorable marke upon the cause of this issue and the motive unto its worke. Ver. 31.
2. A special relation of 4 births or issues in the verses following to the end.
In the former we have to observe these particulars.
1. The cause impulsive, or the occasion which now God taketh to shew his power, And Iehovah saw that Leah was hated. Ver. 31.— And the Lord seeing, &c. Sept. — And it was manifest before the Lord. Cald.
1. Here is reported an act of Gods providence, He saw, that is, he looked on, observed and regarded Iacobs carriage, and Leahs case; all was open to his eyes.
2. The object or matter of this providence, that Leah was hated, that is, not simply, but comparatively, she was as hated, in respect of the love expressed to Rachel: So this expression of hating is used, Deut. 21.15. Though this were just upon Leah for joining with her father in that wicked designe of prostrating herself, yet after Iacob had accepted her, other carriage had bin due as to a wife; on this God looketh now as a failing, and that with respect a da recompence to Leah.
2. The cause efficient of this fruit or issue, And he opened her womb, Septuag. same. — And he gave her to conceive, That is a fit paraphrase to explaine that which is stiled the opening of the womb.
1. The cause of it is Jehovah.
2. The effect is the fruitfulnes of the womb; which God giveth to Leah for easing her burden and working her favour in the eyes of her husband.
3. The amplifying of this blessing on Leah by Gods denying of it hitherto to Rachel. And Rachel was barren. Sept. and Cald. same. Here was Jacobs love most, and here God sends barrennes as yet; how much she complains of this evil is evident. Chap. 30.
Learn hence.
D. 1. God doth not see as men, not as good men see sometimes in accepting persons.
D. 2. Gods providence may be regardfull of them who are neglected by men.
D. 3. Vndervalued and hated mercies may, under Gods ordering, prove most fruitful to men.
D. 4 Jehovah onelyonly openeth wombs, and giveth the fruit of them to his servants.
D. 5. The most regarded by men may be disrespected upon some accounts with God.
D. 6. The most lovely mercies in mans eye, may prove barren, and unfruitful to him. Ver. 31.
In the second head we have the history of 4. births or sonnes from Leah successively.
1. Of Reuben, Ver. 32.Ver. 32. Wherein we have to consider.
1. The conception and birth, And Leah conceived and bare a son, Cald. same. — To Iacob, Sept. Here is a double effect of Gods opening the womb.
1. Conc…ption; she received this power now; though she had miscarried in her behaviour before.
2. Bearing; she bare or brought forth a son, here is the perfecting of blessing; God framed the fruit of the womb, and brought it forth in safety.
2. The nomination of the birth, And she called his name Reuben, Sept. and Cald. same. Herein she seemes to hold out the mercy to view, see a son; though I am hated and undervalued, yet see how God hath pleaded, see a son. In the name of the child she holds forth Gods work and issue given by her, and his token of respect unto her.
3. The reason which she giveth of the name, For she said because Jehovah hath seen my affliction or looked on mine affliction, my humbling. Sep.—My injury is manifest before the Lord. Cald. The reason of the name then is to make a memorial of this sweet providence; So some interpret the name Reuben, the son of him that seeth, &c. Jehovah and his providence are here alone considerable to be kept in remembrance by this name of the first son.
4. The inference which she maketh of it, Therefore or, for now my husband will love me, Sept. and Cald same. so she collects from Gods providence to her, and the fruit of the womb produced, which is one of the strong…st bonds of love between man and wife. So she comforts herself against fore-past unkindnesse.
Note we thence.
D. 1. Gods causation is alwayes with effect; if he opens wombs, conception and birth shall be.
D. 2. Conception and birth God may give to Leah before Rachel, to the hated, before the beloved wife.
D. 3. Soules despised by men and regarded by God, should make conscience of revealing Gods mercies to them.
D. 4. The son and fruit of the womb hath bin looked on, and should be, as a monument of Gods respect.
D. 5 Gods providence or seeing the affliction of his, should perswade them to look to him. and shew his work.
D. 6. Sonnes and fruit of the womb are strong pledges for natural love between man and wife; especially when God makes them signals of his respect. Ver. 32.
2. The birth of Simeon, in the history whereof, are.
1. Leahs second conception & bearing as was expressed before; therefore need no further opening.Ver. 33. OnelyOnly it is the second.
2. Her conceived ground or reason of it, Wherein.
1. The force of the reason, And she said because Jehovah hath heard that I was hated. Sept. and Cald. to the same. Herein is her conjectured ground of her second fruitfulnes, because God had taken notice and heard, that she was yet undervalued and hated; that is, not so well respected, as her relation might require.
2. The effect of this reason (as supposed.) Therefore hath he given me this also. Sept. and Cald. same.
1. God is acknowledged the Author, he hath given.
2. The additional mercy, This son.
3. The freenes, it is a gift.
3. Her nomination of the son now given to remember this providence also, And she called his name Simeon, that is, Hearing, Sept. and Cald. same. The action is no more here mentioned but the imposition of the name; The use was to remember Gods gracious hearing of her in her prayers, when she was undervalued by man; and that in her nearest relation.
Learn from it.
D. 1. Double fruitfulnes can God recompence to the double dis respects of men. So to Leah.
D. 2. It is sutable for soules undervalued to consider how God heareth mens expressions to them.
D. 3. When God heareth and helpeth his, it is convenient to name our mercies hearing. To keepe Gods hearing in our remembrance. Ver. 33.
3. The birth of Levi, whereabout are related.
1. Leahs iterated conception and bearing, as before.
Ver. 34.2. Her hopeful perswasion of her husbands cleaving neerer unto her, And she said, now this time will my husband be joyned unto me, because I have born unto him three sonnes. Cald. same. — My husband will be to me, or for me Sept. Herein.
1. Her hope conceived of her husbands joyning his heart and affection neerer to her, being perswaded by these providences of God.
2. The reason of her hope, her bearing three sonnes to Jacob, which was a threefold cord to tye his heart unto her.
3. The naming of this son, Therefore she called his name, Levi. Sept. and Cald. same, either as an argument of the neer conjunction desired by her, or as a monument of what, in greater measure, was vouchsafed to her; but it seemeth rather that she puts this name as an earnest of more union of her husbands heart. Well may it shadow out the office and worke of that tribe to come, which was joyning God and his Church by their ministry.
Learn hence.
D. 1. Treble fruitfulnes is granted somtimes by God to remove prejudice, where double will not serve.
D. 2. Children are joyning mercies between man and wifes; so many Children so many cords to bind them together.
D. 3. Eminent conjunction between man and wife in their affections, should be remembred, as well as caused, in Children to Gods praise. Ver. 34.
4. The birth of Iudah, about which are here declared.
1. Leahs fourth conception and birth, as before.Ver. 35.
2. The use which she maketh of it, And she said, this time I will confesse Iehovah. — This I will confesse to the Lord, Septuag. and Cald. to the same. A special sweet use of all this fourfold blessing to turn it to the praise of God.
1. The time or season, and
2. The worke are here expressed confession and praise to the Lord. Thus, upon the fourth son, she is inlarged to confesse the goodness of Iehovah, who had given her that was despised, four sonnes, and the beloved none. A good use of fourfold merciemercy.
2. The nomination of this son from her own work, Therefore she called his name Iudah, Sept. and Cald. to the same. She turn's her praise into a monument in her sonnes name; that, upon sight of him, her praise to God might be quickned.
4. A providential stop upon her from bearing, And she stood from bearing, or ceased, Sept. and Cald. to the same. Here is a note of eminent providence, that upon her betaking herself to praise, God should put a stop upon her from bearing in some time, although afterward God blessed her with more increase. But this the Spirit of God eminently observeth.
Learn from it
D. 1. A fourfold testimony of his respect to his despised ones God may give to bring them into favour.
D. 2. Four returns to prayer, deserve a solemne return of praise to God.
D. 3. Gods promise for children, is best perpetuated, and carried on in them.
D. 4. Providence may put a stop upon mercies, when soules have bin praising for them. Ver. 35.