“And the sons of Zilpah, Leah’s handmaid: Gad, and Asher: these are the sons of Jacob, which were born to him in Padanaram.”
Context: Genesis 35 is a significant chapter in the book of Genesis as it narrates the events that took place after Jacob’s return to Bethel. At this point, Jacob had settled in Shechem, and he built an altar there, seeking to honor and worship God. This chapter also marks a turning point in Jacob’s life as he reaffirms his covenant with God and receives a new name, Israel.
Explanation:
Genesis 35:26 specifically mentions the sons of Zilpah, who was Leah’s handmaid. Jacob had two wives, Leah and Rachel, and each of them had given their handmaids to Jacob as wives to bear children on their behalf. Gad and Asher were the sons born to Jacob through Zilpah.
Gad: The name “Gad” means “fortune” or “luck.” Gad became the founder of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Gad settled in the land east of the Jordan River, known as Gilead, and played a significant role in the history of Israel.
Asher: The name “Asher” means “happy” or “blessed.” Asher also became one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Asher settled along the Mediterranean coast in the northern part of Israel.
Significance:
The listing of the twelve sons of Jacob, including the sons born through his wives and their handmaids, is significant because these twelve sons became the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel. The establishment of these tribes would have a profound impact on the history and the fulfillment of God’s promises to the nation of Israel.
The birth of Gad and Asher emphasizes the fulfillment of God’s promise to Jacob that his descendants would become a great nation. It also reveals the complexity of the family structure of Jacob, as he had children with four different women. This serves as a reminder that God’s will can still be accomplished, even in imperfect human circumstances.
Moreover, the mentioning of the sons’ birthplace, Padanaram, reminds us of the time when Jacob lived with his uncle Laban, where he married Leah and Rachel, and where most of his children were born. It serves as a historical reference point that connects the events of Jacob’s life and further highlights the continuity of God’s plan despite changing circumstances.
Overall, Genesis 35:26 provides us with a glimpse into the expansion of Jacob’s family and the fulfillment of God’s promises to him, as each son represents a future tribe of Israel, contributing to the rich tapestry of Israelite history and God’s redemptive plan.
