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Rachel

Rachel in the Bible — daughter of Laban (GEN 29:10) and wife of Jacob (GEN 29:28). Referenced in 6 scripture passages.

Name meaning: sheep

Profile

Gender
female
Scripture References
6 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
5 connections

Biography

Jacob's beloved wife for whom he worked fourteen years. Beautiful and loved, Rachel was barren for many years while her sister Leah bore children. This caused great rivalry and heartache. God eventually remembered Rachel, and she bore Joseph and later Benjamin, dying in childbirth with Benjamin. Her tomb near Bethlehem became a memorial.

Significance

Rachel represents the pain of barrenness and God's faithfulness in answering prayer. Her sons Joseph and Benjamin became two important tribes of Israel.

Key Events

Met Jacob at the well(Genesis 29:9-11)
Jacob worked seven years for her(Genesis 29:20)
Laban deceived Jacob with Leah(Genesis 29:23-25)
Married Jacob(Genesis 29:28)
Birth of Joseph(Genesis 30:22-24)
Died giving birth to Benjamin(Genesis 35:16-19)

Names & Labels (1)

Rachelproper name
Hebrew
רָחֵל
Transliteration
rachel
Meaning
ewe
Greek
Ραχηλ
Reference
GEN 29:6
Strong's
H7354

Family & Relationships (5)

daughter

Laban(GEN 29:6)

sister

Leah(GEN 29:16)

lady

Bilhah(GEN 29:28)

mother

Joseph(GEN 30:23)
Benjamin(GEN 35:17)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Rachel in the Bible?

Rachel is described in the Bible as daughter of Laban (GEN 29:10) and wife of Jacob (GEN 29:28).

What does the name Rachel mean?

The name Rachel means “sheep” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

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