Genesis 30:19

Again Leah conceived and bore a sixth son to Jacob.

Study Bible

And Leah conceived again
The phrase "Leah conceived again" indicates the continuation of God's blessing upon Leah's fertility. The Hebrew root for "conceived" is "הרָה" (harah), which signifies becoming pregnant. This repeated conception underscores the divine favor and providence in Leah's life, despite her less favored status compared to Rachel. In the historical context of the patriarchal society, a woman's ability to bear children, especially sons, was a significant measure of her worth and status. Leah's continued fertility is a testament to God's ongoing provision and blessing, affirming her role in the unfolding narrative of Israel's history.

and bore a sixth son
The act of bearing a "sixth son" is significant in the biblical narrative. The number six in Hebrew culture often symbolizes completeness or imperfection, depending on the context. Here, it suggests the fullness of Leah's contribution to Jacob's lineage. The birth of this sixth son further solidifies Leah's position within the family and the broader narrative of the twelve tribes of Israel. Each son represents a future tribe, and Leah's contribution is substantial, highlighting her importance in God's plan for His people.

to Jacob
The mention of "Jacob" is crucial as it ties the birth of Leah's sixth son to the patriarchal lineage. Jacob, later named Israel, is a central figure in the biblical narrative, and his sons become the progenitors of the twelve tribes of Israel. The historical and scriptural context emphasizes the importance of lineage and heritage in God's covenantal promises. Jacob's role as the father of these tribes is pivotal, and Leah's sons are integral to the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This phrase reminds readers of the continuity of God's covenant and the unfolding of His divine plan through the generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Leah
The first wife of Jacob, Leah is the sister of Rachel. She is often seen as the less favored wife, yet she bears many of Jacob's children, including the sixth son mentioned in this verse.

2. Jacob
The patriarch who is the father of the twelve tribes of Israel. He is married to both Leah and Rachel, and his family dynamics are complex and filled with rivalry.

3. Sixth Son
This refers to Zebulun, Leah's sixth son with Jacob. His birth is significant in the context of the ongoing competition between Leah and Rachel for Jacob's affection and favor.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Family Dynamics
Despite human favoritism and rivalry, God is sovereign over family situations. Leah's ability to bear children, including her sixth son, demonstrates God's control and blessing in her life.

The Value of Each Child
Every child born to Jacob, including Leah's sixth son, plays a crucial role in God's plan for Israel. This reminds us of the inherent value and purpose God has for each individual.

Endurance in Adversity
Leah's account is one of perseverance despite feeling unloved. Her continued faithfulness and the blessings she receives can encourage us to remain steadfast in our own trials.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Leah's experience of bearing a sixth son reflect God's involvement in her life, and what does this teach us about God's role in our personal circumstances?

2. In what ways does the birth of Leah's children, including her sixth son, influence the future of Israel, and how can this understanding impact our view of God's long-term plans?

3. How can Leah's perseverance in a difficult family situation inspire us to remain faithful in our own challenges?

4. What lessons can we learn from the rivalry between Leah and Rachel about the dangers of comparison and envy in our relationships?

5. How does the blessing of children in Leah's life relate to the broader biblical theme of children as a heritage from the Lord, and how can this perspective shape our view of family and legacy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 29-30
These chapters provide the broader context of Leah and Rachel's rivalry and the birth of Jacob's children, highlighting the family dynamics and God's role in opening and closing wombs.

Deuteronomy 33:18-19
This passage includes Moses' blessing to the tribe of Zebulun, Leah's sixth son, showing the future significance of Leah's children in the history of Israel.

Psalm 127:3-5
This scripture speaks to the blessing of children, which can be related to Leah's experience of bearing many sons and the cultural importance of offspring in biblical times.