We are into the life of Jacob within the great book of Genesis. This section and the next make up the center of the Jacob narrative. Both center on increase. In this section it’s the increase of the family, and in the next, it’s Jacob’s prosperity. Both are given by God. In this section the 12 sons are born to Jacob. Amidst all the trickery and shenanigans that take place in this section, God’s Covenant promises are coming to pass. God’s promise that he would have descendents as the dust of the earth has its start in these verses. It’s a very tough section of scripture to read, but nevertheless, it’s also a wonderful story when one understands God is blessing them in spite of their sinful ways. The first scene starts off with Leah’s womb being opened by God, and the last scene ends with God removing Rachael’s reproach, and Rachael’s womb is also opened by God and she bares the son named Joseph. God is the giver of life here, and the ladies come to know this as they come to their end and give glory to God.
