King James Version
What Does Genesis 29:9 Mean?
“And while he yet spake with them, Rachel came with her father's sheep: for she kept them.”
Context
7
And he said, Lo, it is yet high day, neither is it time that the cattle should be gathered together: water ye the sheep, and go and feed them. it is: Heb. yet the day is great
8
And they said, We cannot, until all the flocks be gathered together, and till they roll the stone from the well's mouth; then we water the sheep.
9
And while he yet spake with them, Rachel came with her father's sheep: for she kept them.
10
And it came to pass, when Jacob saw Rachel the daughter of Laban his mother's brother, and the sheep of Laban his mother's brother, that Jacob went near, and rolled the stone from the well's mouth, and watered the flock of Laban his mother's brother.
11
And Jacob kissed Rachel, and lifted up his voice, and wept.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(9) **Rachel came with her father’s sheep.**—Comp. Exodus 2:16; and so in modern times Mr. Malan saw “the sheik’s daughter, the beautiful and well-favoured Ladheefeh, drive her flock of fine patriarchal sheep” to a well for water in this very region (*Philosophy or Truth, *p. 95). As forty years at least elapsed between this meeting of Jacob and Rachel and the birth of Benjamin, she must have been a mere child at this time.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Genesis 29:9 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Genesis 29:9
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge