Genesis 29:24

And Laban gave his servant girl Zilpah to his daughter Leah as her maidservant.

Study Bible

And Laban
Laban, whose name in Hebrew (לָבָן) means "white," is a significant figure in the patriarchal narratives of Genesis. He is the brother of Rebekah and the father of Leah and Rachel. Laban's actions throughout the Genesis account reveal a man who is shrewd and often self-serving. His giving of Zilpah to Leah is part of the cultural practices of the time, where a father would provide a dowry or gifts to accompany his daughter into marriage. This act also foreshadows Laban's later interactions with Jacob, where his cunning nature becomes more evident.

gave his servant girl Zilpah
The giving of Zilpah, whose name in Hebrew (זִלְפָּה) may mean "dropping" or "trickling," is significant in the context of ancient Near Eastern customs. Servant girls or maidservants were often given as part of a dowry, serving as attendants to the bride. Zilpah's role would later become more prominent as she becomes one of the mothers of the tribes of Israel, bearing children for Jacob. This practice reflects the social and familial structures of the time, where maidservants could bear children on behalf of their mistresses, a practice seen also with Hagar and Sarah.

to his daughter Leah
Leah, whose name in Hebrew (לֵאָה) is often associated with meanings such as "weary" or "wild cow," is the elder daughter of Laban. Her marriage to Jacob, which was orchestrated by Laban's deception, sets the stage for much of the familial tension and drama that follows. Leah's position as the less favored wife of Jacob highlights themes of God's providence and blessing, as she becomes the mother of several of Jacob's sons, including Judah, from whom the line of David and ultimately Jesus Christ descends.

as her maidservant
The term "maidservant" in Hebrew (שִׁפְחָה) refers to a female servant or slave. In the patriarchal society of the ancient Near East, maidservants held a dual role of servitude and familial integration. They were often integral to the household, participating in both domestic duties and, at times, in the continuation of family lineage. Zilpah's role as Leah's maidservant underscores the complex social dynamics and the importance of lineage and inheritance in the biblical narrative. Her presence in Leah's life is a testament to the intricate weaving of God's plan through human relationships and societal norms.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Laban
The father of Leah and Rachel, and the brother of Rebekah. He is known for his cunning and manipulative behavior, particularly in the marriage arrangements of his daughters.

2. Leah
The elder daughter of Laban, who becomes Jacob's first wife through Laban's deception. Leah is often seen as the less favored wife compared to her sister Rachel.

3. Zilpah
A servant girl given to Leah by Laban. Zilpah later becomes a secondary wife to Jacob and bears him children, playing a significant role in the formation of the tribes of Israel.

4. Jacob
The son of Isaac and Rebekah, who works for Laban in order to marry Rachel but is deceived into marrying Leah first. Jacob's life is marked by struggles and divine encounters.

5. Haran
The place where Laban and his family reside. It is a significant location in the account of the patriarchs, serving as a backdrop for many key events.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Deception
Laban's actions remind us of the far-reaching consequences of deceit. His manipulation not only affects Jacob but also his daughters and their future generations. As believers, we are called to live truthfully and transparently.

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Despite human manipulation, God's purposes prevail. Zilpah's role in Jacob's family illustrates how God can use unexpected circumstances to fulfill His promises. Trust in God's sovereignty even when situations seem unjust or confusing.

The Value of Every Individual in God's Plan
Zilpah, though a servant, plays a crucial role in the lineage of Israel. This teaches us that every person, regardless of status, has value and purpose in God's kingdom. We should honor and respect all individuals as part of God's creation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Laban's decision to give Zilpah to Leah reflect his character, and what can we learn about the impact of parental decisions on their children?

2. In what ways does the account of Zilpah and Leah illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty and faithfulness in the midst of human deception?

3. How can we apply the lesson of valuing every individual, as seen in Zilpah's contribution to Jacob's family, in our daily interactions and community involvement?

4. What parallels can be drawn between Laban's deception and other biblical accounts of deceit, and how do these accounts collectively warn us against such behavior?

5. How does the inclusion of Zilpah in the account encourage us to view our own roles and contributions in God's plan, even if they seem small or insignificant?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 30:9-13
This passage describes how Zilpah, Leah's maidservant, bears children for Jacob, highlighting her role in the expansion of Jacob's family and the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding his descendants.

Genesis 24:29-31
Provides background on Laban's character, showing his initial encounter with Abraham's servant and his hospitality, which later contrasts with his deceptive actions.

Genesis 31:14-16
Leah and Rachel discuss their father's treatment, revealing the strained family dynamics and Laban's exploitation of his daughters for personal gain.