Genesis 46:15

These are the sons of Leah born to Jacob in Paddan-aram, in addition to his daughter Dinah. The total number of sons and daughters was thirty-three.

Study Bible

These are the sons of Leah
This phrase introduces the lineage of Leah, Jacob's first wife. Leah's role is significant in the history of Israel, as she bore six of the twelve tribes. Her name in Hebrew, לֵאָה (Le'ah), is often associated with meanings such as "weary" or "wild cow," reflecting her challenging life and the cultural context of her time. Leah's account is one of perseverance and faithfulness, as she remained devoted to Jacob despite his preference for her sister, Rachel. Her sons would become foundational to the nation of Israel, highlighting God's providence and the importance of family lineage in biblical history.

whom she bore to Jacob
The act of bearing children to Jacob signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to multiply their descendants. The Hebrew verb יָלַד (yalad) means "to bear" or "to bring forth," emphasizing the divine blessing of fertility and the continuation of the covenant through Leah's offspring. Jacob, whose name means "supplanter" or "heel-grabber," is a patriarch whose life was marked by transformation and covenantal faithfulness. Leah's children with Jacob underscore the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through imperfect human relationships.

in Paddan-aram
Paddan-aram, also known as Mesopotamia, is the region where Jacob fled to escape Esau's wrath and where he met Leah and Rachel. This area, rich in ancient history, was a center of early civilization and culture. The mention of Paddan-aram situates Leah's account within a broader historical and geographical context, reminding readers of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to work through diverse circumstances to fulfill His purposes.

besides his daughter Dinah
Dinah, the only daughter mentioned among Leah's children, plays a unique role in the narrative. Her story, found in Genesis 34, is one of tragedy and complexity, reflecting the challenges faced by women in ancient patriarchal societies. The inclusion of Dinah highlights the importance of every family member in God's plan, regardless of gender, and serves as a reminder of the need for justice and protection for the vulnerable.

The total number of sons and daughters was thirty-three
The number thirty-three is significant in biblical numerology, often symbolizing a complete or perfect period. In this context, it represents the fullness of Leah's contribution to Jacob's family. The Hebrew culture placed great importance on family and lineage, and this enumeration underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to multiply Jacob's descendants. It also serves as a testament to Leah's enduring legacy and the integral role her children would play in the history of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Leah
The first wife of Jacob, Leah was given to Jacob through Laban's deception. She bore him six sons and one daughter, Dinah.

2. Jacob
Also known as Israel, he is the patriarch whose family is central to the account of Genesis. His journey to Egypt marks a significant moment in the history of Israel.

3. Paddan-aram
A region in Mesopotamia where Jacob lived and worked for Laban, his uncle, and where his children were born.

4. Dinah
The only daughter of Jacob and Leah mentioned in this passage, Dinah's account is significant in Genesis 34, where her encounter with Shechem leads to a violent retaliation by her brothers.

5. Thirty-three descendants
This number represents the total offspring of Leah, including her sons and daughter, highlighting the growth of Jacob's family.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Family Dynamics
Despite human manipulation and favoritism, God's plan unfolds through the family of Jacob. Leah, though less favored, becomes the mother of a significant portion of Israel's tribes.

The Importance of Legacy
The listing of Leah's descendants underscores the importance of family legacy and God's faithfulness to His promises through generations.

God's Use of Imperfect People
Leah's account reminds us that God often works through those who are overlooked or undervalued by others, using their lives to fulfill His purposes.

Counting Our Blessings
Just as Leah's descendants are counted, we are encouraged to recognize and be grateful for the blessings and growth God brings into our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Leah's role in Jacob's family reflect God's ability to work through less favored or overlooked individuals?

2. In what ways does the journey of Jacob's family to Egypt set the stage for the larger account of the Israelites in the Bible?

3. How can we apply the concept of legacy in our own lives, ensuring that our actions and faith impact future generations?

4. What does the inclusion of Dinah in this passage teach us about the value of each family member in God's eyes?

5. How can we find encouragement in God's faithfulness to His promises, as seen in the growth of Jacob's family, in our own life circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 29-30
These chapters detail the births of Leah's children, providing context to Genesis 46:15 and illustrating God's blessing on Leah despite her struggles for Jacob's affection.

Exodus 1:1-5
This passage lists the descendants of Jacob who went to Egypt, connecting the family of Jacob to the larger account of the Israelites' eventual enslavement and exodus.

Ruth 4:11
Leah is mentioned in the blessing given to Ruth, showing her continued significance in the lineage leading to King David and ultimately to Jesus Christ.