Genesis 35:17

And it came to pass, when she was in hard labour, that the midwife said unto her, Fear not; thou shalt have this son also.

Genesis 35:17 (KJV)

Context

This verse records the birth of Benjamin, the twelfth and youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. The family is traveling from Bethel toward Ephrath, a place later linked with Bethlehem. Rachel had known years of infertility before bearing Joseph, so this second son is a precious answer to her longing. The birth takes place along the road, far from the comforts of home.

Meaning

The opening phrase “And it came to pass” marks a new and important event. Rachel is in hard labour, meaning intense pain and danger, for childbirth in ancient times was often life-threatening. The midwife, a skilled helper present at the birth, sees Rachel’s distress and speaks directly to her fear: “Fear not; thou shalt have this son also.” These words are not empty comfort; they assure Rachel that she will indeed deliver another son. The midwife’s encouragement is a direct reassurance amid danger, affirming that God is at work even in this perilous moment.

Biblical connections

Rachel’s earlier struggle with infertility appears in Genesis 30, where she envied her sister Leah. God answered her then with Joseph, and now He grants another son. The birth of Benjamin fulfills God’s promise to Jacob, for Benjamin becomes one of the twelve patriarchs whose descendants form the tribes of Israel. The midwife’s command “Fear not” echoes a repeated biblical encouragement to trust God in crisis.

Application

God’s faithfulness does not remove hardship, but He gives strength and reassurance within it. Like Rachel, believers may face painful circumstances where fear rises. The midwife’s words remind us that God sees our struggle and speaks comfort through others. We can trust that His purposes continue even when the path is hard.

Reflection

Rachel’s joy in Benjamin is soon followed by her death, as Genesis 35:18-19 records. Yet her son’s birth still advances God’s redemptive plan. This teaches that God’s work is greater than any single life or trial. His care remains present in both the pain and the promise.