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Book of Genesis - Chapter 29 - Verse 29

29:29
And Laban gave to Rachel his daughter Bilhah his handmaid to be her maid.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Genesis, Laban, Rachel's father, gives her his handmaid Bilhah to be her maid. This act was common in ancient times, where wealthy families would provide servants to their daughters as a form of support and assistance in managing household duties. By giving Bilhah to Rachel, Laban was ensuring that his daughter had help with day-to-day tasks and responsibilities. This act also symbolizes Bilhah's loyalty and dedication to Rachel, as she becomes part of her household and serves her faithfully. Additionally, this gesture highlights the importance of family dynamics and relationships in the Bible, showing how families supported and cared for each other through various means. Overall, the verse signifies the cultural practices and values of the time, as well as the importance of unity and mutual assistance within families.

Theological Overview

In the book of Genesis, Laban, Rachel's father, gives his daughter Rachel a handmaid named Bilhah as a maid. This act reflects the cultural practices of the time, where it was common for women to have handmaids to help with domestic duties and childcare. The theological interpretation of this verse can be seen through the lens of social structures and relationships within biblical times. In this context, the gift of a handmaid to Rachel signifies Laban's desire to provide for his daughter and ensure her well-being. It also highlights the importance of family dynamics and the role of servants in biblical households. Additionally, this verse can be examined through word studies to explore the meanings and implications of terms like "handmaid" and "maid" in the original Hebrew text. By delving into the language used in this verse, we can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and social contexts in which this story takes place.

American Standard Version

And Laban gave to Rachel his daughter Bilhah his handmaid to be her handmaid.
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