Genesis 29:16 (KJV)

What does Genesis 29:16 mean?

Genesis 29:16 introduces Laban’s two daughters by name, stating that the older daughter is Leah and the younger is Rachel. This verse simply identifies the two women who will become important in the story of Jacob’s family.

Genesis 29:16 is part of the account where Jacob has come to stay with his uncle Laban. The verse sets the stage for the events that follow by naming Laban’s daughters, who will both play major roles in Jacob’s life and in the unfolding story of the tribes of Israel.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 29:16

• לֵאָה (Le’ah) and רָחֵל (Rachel): These are the original Hebrew names for Leah and Rachel. Leah’s name is often thought to mean “weary” or “wild cow,” while Rachel means “ewe” (a female sheep). The names themselves hint at characteristics or symbolism that may be explored later in the story.
• בְּכִירָה (bekhirah, “elder”) and קְטַנָּה (qetannah, “younger”): These words specify the birth order of Laban’s daughters, which will become significant in the narrative, especially regarding marriage customs and family dynamics.

Why Genesis 29:16 matters

• This verse clears up who Leah and Rachel are, making it clear from the start that there are two sisters, and which one is older.
• The mention of both daughters by name and birth order sets up the coming events where Jacob’s relationships with each sister become central to the story.
• Understanding who Leah and Rachel are helps the reader follow the family lines that will lead to the twelve tribes of Israel, a major theme in Genesis.