Genesis 35:24

The sons of Rachel; Joseph, and Benjamin:

The sons {H1121} of Rachel {H7354}; Joseph {H3130}, and Benjamin {H1144}:

The sons of Rachel were Yosef and Binyamin.

The sons of Rachel were Joseph and Benjamin.

the sons of Rachel: Joseph and Benjamin;

Commentary

Genesis 35:24 (KJV) states, "The sons of Rachel; Joseph, and Benjamin:" This concise verse names the two sons born to Jacob's beloved wife, Rachel, both of whom would play significant roles in the unfolding history of Israel.

Context

This verse is part of a crucial passage in the book of Genesis (Chapter 35) that details Jacob's return to Bethel, a place of profound significance where God had previously appeared to him (Genesis 28:19). Following the renewal of God's covenant promises to Jacob, the narrative lists all twelve of Jacob's sons, who would become the patriarchs of the twelve tribes of Israel. This particular verse specifically highlights the sons of Rachel, Jacob's most cherished wife, whose tragic death during the birth of Benjamin is recounted just moments before this genealogical summary (Genesis 35:18).

Key Themes

  • Lineage and Covenant Fulfillment: The primary purpose of this verse, within the larger list of Jacob's sons (Genesis 35:23-26), is to meticulously record the lineage through which God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob would be fulfilled. Each son contributes to the formation of the nation of Israel.
  • Significance of Joseph: The first son mentioned, Joseph, is particularly prominent in the biblical narrative. His story, beginning in Genesis 37, details how he was sold into slavery but rose to power in Egypt, ultimately saving his family from famine and preserving the nascent nation.
  • Benjamin, the Youngest: Benjamin is notable as Jacob's youngest son and the only one born in the land of Canaan after Jacob's return. His birth coincided with Rachel's death, a detail that adds pathos to his introduction. His name, given by Jacob, means "son of the right hand," signifying strength and favor, contrasting with Rachel's dying name for him, Ben-oni ("son of my sorrow").

Linguistic Insights

The name Benjamin (Hebrew: ื‘ึผึดื ึฐื™ึธืžึดื™ืŸ, Binyamin) is significant. While his mother Rachel named him Ben-oni (literally "son of my sorrow") in her dying moments, Jacob renamed him Benjamin, meaning "son of the right hand" or "son of strength." This renaming reflects Jacob's desire to look beyond the sorrow of Rachel's death to a future of strength and blessing for his youngest son, who would later become the patriarch of one of Israel's tribes.

Practical Application

While a simple genealogical entry, Genesis 35:24 reminds us of the intricate tapestry of God's plan. Even seemingly ordinary individuals, like those listed in a family tree, are part of a larger divine narrative. It underscores the importance of family and lineage in God's covenant dealings and how foundational figures, like Joseph, emerge from specific family lines to fulfill significant purposes. This verse encourages us to see divine purpose in our own lives and families, recognizing that each person has a place in God's grand design, contributing to His unfolding story.

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Cross-References

  • Genesis 30:22 (4 votes)

    And God remembered Rachel, and God hearkened to her, and opened her womb.

  • Genesis 30:24 (4 votes)

    And she called his name Joseph; and said, The LORD shall add to me another son.

  • Genesis 46:19 (3 votes)

    The sons of Rachel Jacob's wife; Joseph, and Benjamin.

  • Genesis 46:22 (3 votes)

    These [are] the sons of Rachel, which were born to Jacob: all the souls [were] fourteen.

  • Genesis 35:16 (3 votes)

    ยถ And they journeyed from Bethel; and there was but a little way to come to Ephrath: and Rachel travailed, and she had hard labour.

  • Genesis 35:18 (3 votes)

    And it came to pass, as her soul was in departing, (for she died) that she called his name Benoni: but his father called him Benjamin.