wagesמַשְׂכֹּרֶת
maskoreth · Hebrew Noun
Compensation given for labor or service. In the ancient economy, this was often paid in livestock, goods, or the promise of future marriage, reflecting the contract-based nature of work and family life.
Labanלָבָן
Laban · Hebrew Proper Noun
Refers to the father of Rachel and Leah, whose name denotes "white" or "shining." In the narrative, he functions as a shrewd, deceptive kinsman who plays a central role in testing Jacob's character and patience.
Leahלֵאָה
Leah · Hebrew Proper Noun
The firstborn daughter of Laban. In biblical usage, the term often signifies the one who was overlooked or favored less in human estimation, yet plays a foundational role in the lineage of Israel.
Rachelרָחֵל
Rachel · Hebrew Proper Noun
The younger daughter of Laban, whose name signifies "ewe." Biblically, she is depicted as possessing physical beauty and grace, becoming the beloved wife of Jacob and a matriarch of Israel.
weakרַכּוֹת
rakkoth · Hebrew Adjective
Refers to the physical state of Leah's eyes, often interpreted as lacking sparkle or beauty. It highlights the contrast between internal character and outward physical attractiveness in the biblical narrative.
beautiful in form and appearanceיְפַת־תֹּאַר וִיפַת מַרְאֶה
yepath-to’ar viyphath mar’eh · Hebrew Adjective/Noun phrase
Used to describe physical attractiveness or excellence in form. In the Bible, beauty is often noted as a reflection of God’s creation, though it is frequently contrasted with the inner disposition of the heart.
Jacobיַעֲקֹב
Ya'aqob · Hebrew Proper Noun
Refers to the son of Isaac and grandson of Abraham. His name means "he grasps the heel" or "supplanter," and he is the father of the twelve tribes of Israel.
lovedאָהַב
ahab · Hebrew Verb
A profound commitment of the heart, often involving devotion, sacrifice, and intense emotional attachment. In the Bible, love is demonstrated through action, fidelity, and self-denial, as seen in the context of covenant and familial relationships.
serveעָבַד
abad · Hebrew Verb
A term denoting labor or performance of duty, often used in the context of service to God or service within a familial or contractual arrangement. It implies effort, time, and dedication toward a specific goal.
go in to herבּוֹא
bow · Hebrew Verb
In a marital context, this refers to the consummation of the marriage, signifying the physical union and the fulfillment of the marriage covenant between a husband and wife.
feastמִשְׁתֶּה
mishteh · Hebrew Noun
A social or religious gathering involving a meal, often used in Scripture to celebrate covenants, weddings, or significant life events, serving as a public witness to a transaction or union.
daughterבַּת
bath · Hebrew Noun
In the context of the patriarchal narratives, a daughter was considered under the authority of the father until marriage, at which point the father oversaw the transfer of this guardianship to a husband.
female servantשִׁפְחָה
shiphchah · Hebrew Noun
Referring to a bondservant or female attendant, often given as part of a dowry or marriage gift, indicating status and familial obligation within the ancient Near Eastern household structure.
deceivedרָמָה
ramah · Hebrew Verb
The act of misleading someone through falsehood or guile; in Scripture, this is frequently condemned as a violation of truth and integrity, often carrying severe relational or covenantal consequences.
countryמָקוֹם
maqom · Hebrew Noun
A person or group of people characterized by a common location, heritage, or customs; in the Old Testament, it often refers to a clan or tribal group.
firstbornבְּכוֹרָה
bekorah · Hebrew Noun
The first child born to parents; in the ancient Near East, the firstborn son held special rights of inheritance and authority, and the firstborn daughter held a position of precedence in marriage customs.
Completeמָלֵא
male' · Hebrew Verb
To finish, bring to an end, or fulfill a specific period or requirement. In a covenantal or contractual sense, it implies meeting the full terms of an obligation.
weekשָׁבֻעַ
shabua · Hebrew Noun
In this context, the seven-day period of wedding festivities that followed a marriage ceremony, marking the transition of the bride into her new household.
servingעָבַד
abad · Hebrew Verb
The act of working for another; in a biblical context, it often refers to labor performed under a covenantal agreement or bond of servitude.
wifeאִשָּׁה
ishshah · Hebrew Noun
A woman who is joined to a man in a covenantal bond sanctioned by God and recognized by society, involving companionship, procreation, and mutual duties.
