Jacob Marries Leah and Rachel

Jacob arrived in the land of the people of the east and encountered shepherds at a well in Haran. Rachel, the daughter of Laban, arrived with her father's sheep, as she was a shepherdess (Genesis 29:9). Jacob rolled the stone from the mouth of the well and watered the flock. After Jacob identified himself as a relative, Rachel ran to tell her father. Laban went to meet Jacob, embraced him, and brought him to his house. Jacob remained with him for a month, at which point Laban asked what Jacob's wages should be for his service (Genesis 29:15).

Laban had two daughters; the elder was Leah, and the younger was Rachel. The text describes Leah's eyes as delicate, while Rachel is described as beautiful in form and appearance. Jacob loved Rachel and offered to serve Laban for seven years to marry her. Laban agreed to the arrangement. Jacob served the seven years, which seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her. When the time was completed, Jacob requested his wife. Laban gathered all the men of the place and made a feast (Genesis 29:22).

In the evening, Laban took Leah and brought her to Jacob. The text does not say how Jacob failed to recognize her, but he went in to her. Laban also gave his maid Zilpah to Leah as a maidservant. In the morning, Jacob discovered it was Leah and questioned Laban regarding the deception. Laban stated that in his country, the younger daughter must not be given before the firstborn (Genesis 29:26). Laban instructed Jacob to complete Leah's wedding week, after which he would also be given Rachel in exchange for seven more years of service. Jacob complied, completed the week, and married Rachel. Laban gave his maid Bilhah to Rachel as a maidservant.