Genesis 29 tells the captivating story of Jacob’s arrival in Haran, where he encounters his relatives and encounters his future wife, Rachel. Jacob arrives at a well in the city and meets a group of shepherds who are waiting to water their flocks. He inquires about Laban, his mother’s brother, and the shepherds point out Rachel, Laban’s daughter, approaching with her sheep. Overwhelmed by her beauty, Jacob rolls the stone away from the well and waters Rachel’s flock.
After meeting Rachel, Jacob reveals his identity as Rebekah’s son and Laban’s nephew. Laban welcomes Jacob into his home, and Jacob stays with him for a month. During this time, Jacob expresses his desire to marry Rachel. Laban agrees but stipulates that Jacob must work for him for seven years in exchange for Rachel’s hand in marriage.
Jacob agrees to Laban’s condition and works faithfully for seven years, considering it a short time because of his love for Rachel. However, when the seven years are completed, Laban deceitfully gives Jacob his elder daughter, Leah, instead of Rachel. Jacob is outraged by this deception and confronts Laban. Laban explains that it is not their custom to give the younger daughter in marriage before the elder.
Despite this disappointment, Jacob agrees to work for another seven years to marry Rachel. He marries Rachel as well, and his love for her surpasses his love for Leah. God sees that Leah is unloved and blesses her with children while Rachel remains barren.