“And Jacob set a pillar upon her grave: that is the pillar of Rachel’s grave unto this day.”
Context: Genesis 35 recounts the events that took place when Jacob and his family were journeying from Bethel to Ephrath. During this time, Rachel, Jacob’s beloved wife, went into labor and gave birth to Benjamin, but sadly, she died in the process. The verse in question describes Jacob’s response to Rachel’s death.
The Pillar: In ancient times, it was a common practice to erect pillars or monuments as a way to mark important locations or commemorate significant events. Jacob, deeply grieved by Rachel’s passing, set up a pillar on her grave as a memorial. This pillar served as a physical reminder of Rachel’s resting place and a symbol of Jacob’s love and remembrance for her.
Rachel’s Grave: Rachel’s burial site held great significance for Jacob. It was a place of deep emotional attachment and represented the loss he experienced. Rachel was not only Jacob’s wife but also the mother of his beloved son, Benjamin. The pillar on her grave served as a lasting memorial to her and a tangible way for Jacob and future generations to honor her memory.
Lessons from Genesis 35:20:
- Remembering loved ones: Jacob’s act of setting up the pillar on Rachel’s grave teaches us the importance of remembering and honoring those who have passed away. It is natural to grieve the loss of loved ones, but creating memorials or engaging in rituals of remembrance can help us cherish their memory and find solace.
- Cherishing relationships: Rachel held a special place in Jacob’s heart, and he expressed his love and respect for her through the memorial pillar. This reminds us to value our relationships and appreciate the people in our lives. We should not take our loved ones for granted but instead express our affection and gratitude while they are still with us.
- The brevity of life: Rachel’s untimely death is a reminder of the fragility and transience of life. None of us know when our time on earth will end, so it is important to live each day to the fullest, make amends where needed, and prioritize the relationships that matter most.
Application: In our lives today, we can apply the lessons from Genesis 35:20 by:
- Creating memorials or engaging in rituals to honor the memory of loved ones who have passed away.
- Expressing love and appreciation to our family and friends while they are still alive.
- Recognizing the fleeting nature of life and living with a sense of urgency and purpose.
Remember, the Bible is a rich source of wisdom and guidance, and studying its verses helps us gain insights and apply its teachings to our lives.
