Genesis 29:35

KJV

And she conceived again, and bare a son: and she said, Now will I praise the LORD: therefore she called his name Judah; and left bearing.

KJV (with Strong's)

And she conceived {H2029} again, and bare {H3205} a son {H1121}: and she said {H559}, Now {H6471} will I praise {H3034} the LORD {H3068}: therefore she called {H7121} his name {H8034} Judah {H3063}; and left {H5975} bearing {H3205}.

Complete Jewish Bible

She conceived yet again, had a son and said, "This time I will praise ADONAI"; therefore she named him Y'hudah [praise]. Then she stopped having children.

Berean Standard Bible

And once more she conceived and gave birth to a son and said, “This time I will praise the LORD.” So she named him Judah. Then Leah stopped having children.

American Standard Version

And she conceived again, and bare a son: and she said, This time will I praise Jehovah: therefore she called his name Judah; and she left off bearing.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 29:35 marks a profound turning point in Leah's personal narrative and the unfolding lineage of Israel. As she gives birth to her fourth son, Judah, her declaration, "Now will I praise the LORD," signifies a radical shift from her previous naming conventions—which were rooted in her longing for Jacob's affection—to an unreserved expression of gratitude and worship toward God. This pivotal act of praise not only establishes the identity of Judah, whose name means "praise," but also lays a foundational stone for the tribe from which the Messiah would ultimately descend, highlighting God's sovereign hand in human affairs and redemptive history.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 29 details Jacob's arrival in Haran, his arduous years of service to Laban, and the complex, emotionally charged marriages to Leah and Rachel. The narrative emphasizes Jacob's profound love for Rachel and his comparative indifference towards Leah, stating explicitly that "the Lord saw that Leah was hated" ([Genesis 29:31](/genesis/29-31 "God's Compassion for Leah")). In response to Leah's distress, God intervenes by opening her womb, while Rachel remains barren. The births of Reuben ([Genesis 29:32](/genesis/29-32 "Leah's Hope with Reuben")), Simeon ([Genesis 29:33](/genesis/29-33 "Leah's Plea with Simeon")), and Levi ([Genesis 29:34](/genesis/29-34 "Leah's Longing with Levi")) precede Judah, with each name reflecting Leah's yearning for Jacob's affection or her acknowledgment of God hearing her plight. Genesis 29:35, therefore, culminates this initial series of births, representing a significant spiritual breakthrough for Leah, as her focus shifts entirely from her marital struggles to unadulterated praise for the Lord.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, a woman's status and value were often intrinsically linked to her ability to bear children, especially sons, who would perpetuate the family line and inherit property. Polygyny, as practiced by Jacob, often led to intense rivalry and emotional distress among wives, particularly when one was favored over another. Leah's situation as the "unloved" wife would have been culturally humiliating and personally devastating. Naming conventions were also highly significant, with names often reflecting circumstances of birth, parental hopes, or prophetic insights. Leah's choice of names for her first three sons reflects her deep-seated desire for Jacob's love and recognition. The shift in naming Judah, however, transcends these immediate cultural pressures and personal desires, pointing to a direct theological affirmation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Compassion**, demonstrating God's active intervention in the lives of individuals, especially those who are marginalized or suffering, as seen in His attentiveness to Leah's "hatred" ([Genesis 29:31](/genesis/29-31 "God's Compassion for Leah")). Secondly, it highlights the **Transformative Power of Praise**, illustrating how a heart focused on God can find contentment and express gratitude even amidst profound personal sorrow and unfulfilled human desires. Finally, and most significantly, the birth of Judah is a crucial moment in the theme of **Redemptive History and the Messianic Lineage**. From Judah's tribe would emerge the royal line of David ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "The Davidic Covenant")) and ultimately, the Messiah, Jesus Christ ([Matthew 1:2-3](/matthew/1-2-3 "Jesus' Genealogy through Judah")), making this seemingly personal event a foundational step in God's universal plan of salvation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 29:35 details the birth of Leah's fourth son, a pivotal event that not only continues the lineage of Jacob but also marks a profound spiritual evolution in Leah's life. Despite her ongoing emotional pain from Jacob's preference for Rachel, God continued to bless Leah with fertility, demonstrating His compassionate oversight. The naming of this son, Judah, signifies a radical shift in Leah's heart, moving from a focus on her earthly circumstances and desires to an expression of pure praise and gratitude toward the Lord.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **conceived (Hebrew, _hârâh'_):** From H2029, this primitive root means "to be (or become) pregnant, conceive (literally or figuratively)." In this context, it emphasizes the divine agency behind Leah's continued fertility. Despite Jacob's lack of affection, God supernaturally opened her womb, highlighting His sovereign control over life and barrenness and His compassionate response to Leah's distress.
* **praise (Hebrew, _yâdâh'_):** From H3034, this primitive root primarily means "to use (i.e., hold out) the hand," and specifically "to revere or worship (with extended hands)." It also carries the meaning "to confess" or "to give thanks." Leah's declaration, "Now will I praise the LORD," signifies a profound act of worship and gratitude, moving beyond mere acknowledgment of God's provision to an active, heartfelt expression of adoration and thanksgiving. This is a deliberate, volitional act of worship.
* **Judah (Hebrew, _Yᵉhûwdâh'_):** From H3063, this name is directly derived from the root H3034 (_yâdâh_), meaning "celebrated" or "praised." Leah's choice of this name for her fourth son powerfully encapsulates her spiritual transformation. Unlike her previous sons, whose names reflected her personal sorrow or desire for Jacob's affection, Judah's name is a pure testament to her unreserved praise and gratitude toward God, marking a new, God-centered focus in her life.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And she conceived again, and bare a son":** This phrase highlights God's continued blessing upon Leah, emphasizing His faithfulness to her. Despite being "hated" by Jacob, God continued to grant her fertility, demonstrating His compassion and sovereignty over life. This is her fourth son, indicating a consistent pattern of divine provision.
* **"and she said, Now will I praise the LORD":** This is the emotional and spiritual climax of the verse. The word "Now" (Hebrew: *pa'am*, H6471), often translated as "this time" or "at this stroke," signifies a decisive and final shift in Leah's perspective. Her focus moves entirely from her unfulfilled desires for Jacob's love to an unreserved expression of gratitude and adoration for "the LORD" (Hebrew: *Yᵉhôvâh*, H3068), the covenant God of Israel. This marks a profound spiritual breakthrough, where her contentment is found solely in God's goodness.
* **"therefore she called his name Judah":** Leah's naming of her son directly reflects her declaration of praise. The name "Judah" (Hebrew: *Yᵉhûwdâh*) is derived from the verb "to praise" (*yâdâh*). This choice is not merely descriptive but performative; the name itself becomes a living testament to her transformed heart and her commitment to praising God, setting him apart from his elder brothers whose names reflected Leah's personal struggles.
* **"and left bearing":** This phrase indicates a temporary cessation of Leah's childbearing at this point in the narrative. While she later bears more children (Issachar, Zebulun, and Dinah), this specific pause after Judah's birth emphasizes the unique significance of this son and the profound spiritual shift associated with his naming. It marks a distinct period in Leah's life and the progression of Jacob's family, signaling a completion of this initial series of births.

#### Literary Devices
Genesis 29:35 is rich with **Symbolism**, particularly in the naming of Judah. The name itself, meaning "praise," symbolizes Leah's spiritual transformation from a woman consumed by sorrow and longing for human affection to one who finds her deepest joy and purpose in praising God. This name also **foreshadows** the future prominence of the tribe of Judah and its central role in God's redemptive plan, ultimately leading to the Messiah. The narrative employs **Contrast**, highlighting the stark difference between Leah's previous namings—Reuben, Simeon, and Levi, which were all tied to her desire for Jacob's love—and Judah's naming, which is solely an expression of praise to the Lord. This contrast underscores Leah's spiritual maturity and the shift in her focus. Furthermore, the divine **Providence** is evident, as God, seeing Leah's distress, sovereignly opens her womb, ensuring the continuation of the lineage through the very woman Jacob disfavored, an act of **Divine Irony** that sets the stage for the Messianic line.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 29:35 presents a powerful theological statement about God's compassionate sovereignty and the transformative power of a grateful heart. Leah, the unloved wife, experiences a profound spiritual breakthrough, moving from a self-focused longing for human affection to an unreserved expression of praise to God. This shift demonstrates that true contentment and joy are found not in external circumstances or human validation, but in acknowledging and praising the Lord for His goodness and faithfulness. The birth of Judah, whose name embodies this praise, is not merely a personal event but a crucial step in God's unfolding redemptive plan, as his lineage would eventually lead to the King of Israel and, ultimately, the Messiah. This verse reminds believers that even in seasons of perceived neglect or hardship, God is intimately involved, working His purposes and inviting us to a deeper, more profound relationship of praise and trust.

* [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "The Davidic Covenant")
* [Matthew 1:2-3](/matthew/1-2-3 "Jesus' Genealogy through Judah")
* [Revelation 5:5](/revelation/5-5 "The Lion of the Tribe of Judah")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 29:35 offers a profound and timeless lesson on finding joy and purpose in God, even when life's circumstances are far from ideal or when our deepest human longings remain unfulfilled. Leah's journey from a heart burdened by sorrow and a yearning for Jacob's affection to one overflowing with praise for the Lord serves as a powerful testament to the reorienting power of gratitude. Her declaration, "Now will I praise the LORD," challenges us to shift our focus from our problems, unmet desires, or perceived injustices to the unchanging character and faithful provision of God. When we choose to praise Him, our perspective is transformed, and we begin to see His hand at work even in our difficulties, fostering a deep sense of contentment and trust. This verse encourages us to cultivate a heart of unreserved praise, recognizing that God sees our struggles, hears our cries, and works all things—even our pain—for His glory and our ultimate good, often in ways far grander and more redemptive than we could ever imagine.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Leah's spiritual journey in this verse challenge my own tendency to seek fulfillment in human relationships or external circumstances?**
* **What does it mean for me to "praise the LORD" in my current life circumstances, especially if I am experiencing unfulfilled longings or difficulties?**
* **How can I cultivate a heart of unreserved gratitude and praise, even when my prayers for specific desires seem unanswered?**

### FAQ
**Why is Judah's birth so significant in biblical history?**

Answer: Judah's birth is profoundly significant because he becomes the progenitor of the most prominent tribe of Israel, from which the Davidic line of kings would emerge, and ultimately, the Messiah, Jesus Christ. His name, meaning "praise," also reflects a pivotal spiritual turning point for his mother, Leah, and prophetically foreshadows the praise due to the line that would bring salvation to the world, as seen in passages like [Revelation 5:5](/revelation/5-5 "The Lion of the Tribe of Judah").

**How does Leah's naming of Judah differ from her previous sons?**

Answer: Leah's naming of Judah marks a distinct and profound shift in her spiritual focus. Her previous sons' names—Reuben ([Genesis 29:32](/genesis/29-32 "Leah's Hope with Reuben")), Simeon ([Genesis 29:33](/genesis/29-33 "Leah's Plea with Simeon")), and Levi ([Genesis 29:34](/genesis/29-34 "Leah's Longing with Levi"))—all reflected her longing for Jacob's love and her personal sorrow or hope for his affection. Judah, however, is named purely out of praise and gratitude to "the LORD" ([Genesis 29:35](/genesis/29-35 "Leah Praises the LORD")), indicating a spiritual maturity where her focus shifts from her marital struggles and human desires to God's goodness and sovereign provision.

**What does "and left bearing" imply in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "and left bearing" indicates a temporary cessation of Leah's childbearing at this specific point in the narrative. It signifies a distinct pause after the birth of Judah, highlighting the unique significance of this son and the profound spiritual transformation that accompanied his naming. While Leah later bears more children (Issachar, Zebulun, and Dinah in [Genesis 30](/genesis/30 "Jacob's Other Children")), this particular phrase emphasizes the completion of the initial series of births and the spiritual milestone achieved with Judah's arrival.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The birth of Judah, whose very name means "praise," serves as a profound and multifaceted foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate object of all praise and the one through whom all true worship is offered to God. From Judah's lineage, as promised by God, came King David, and from David's royal line, according to the divine covenant, came the Messiah. Jesus is explicitly identified in the New Testament as "the Lion of the tribe of Judah" ([Revelation 5:5](/revelation/5-5 "The Lion of the Tribe of Judah")), signifying His supreme royal authority, conquering power, and ultimate victory over sin and death. Just as Leah's act of praise marked a turning point in her personal life and in the lineage of Israel, Christ's advent brings about the ultimate turning point for all humanity, inaugurating a new covenant where believers, through Him, can offer genuine praise and worship to God. His life, death, and resurrection fully embody the meaning of Judah's name, as He is the one worthy of all honor, glory, and praise for His redemptive work, fulfilling the very hope and spiritual breakthrough that Leah experienced.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Chronicles 5:2

For Judah prevailed above his brethren, and of him [came] the chief ruler; but the birthright [was] Joseph's:)

Genesis 49:8

¶ Judah, thou [art he] whom thy brethren shall praise: thy hand [shall be] in the neck of thine enemies; thy father's children shall bow down before thee.

Genesis 49:12

His eyes [shall be] red with wine, and his teeth white with milk.

Matthew 1:2

Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas and his brethren;

Deuteronomy 33:7

And this [is the blessing] of Judah: and he said, Hear, LORD, the voice of Judah, and bring him unto his people: let his hands be sufficient for him; and be thou an help [to him] from his enemies.

Genesis 35:26

And the sons of Zilpah, Leah's handmaid; Gad, and Asher: these [are] the sons of Jacob, which were born to him in Padanaram.

Genesis 44:18

¶ Then Judah came near unto him, and said, Oh my lord, let thy servant, I pray thee, speak a word in my lord's ears, and let not thine anger burn against thy servant: for thou [art] even as Pharaoh.