Genesis·Chapter 35

How to Apply

This week, take a moment to reflect on your own life. Are there areas where you’re experiencing sorrow? Maybe it’s a loss or a big change. Write it down, acknowledge it, and then think about what new beginnings might be on the horizon. Just like Jacob named his son Benjamin as a step towards hope, think of how you can embrace new opportunities or relationships that might help you heal. Share this with someone close to you—talk about your joys and sorrows. It can be a powerful way to connect and support each other through life's ups and downs.

Chapter Context

This moment is part of a larger, intense story in Jacob’s life. Just before this, Jacob and his family have faced so much turmoil, including the death of Rachel, his beloved wife. This scene captures the rawness of that tragedy and the shift that follows. The naming of Benjamin signifies more than just a name; it’s a turning point. It highlights how Jacob, despite his heartbreak, embraces the new life that has come into the world. This verse is nestled in a chapter full of emotional highs and lows, and it takes us from despair to a sense of hope and resilience as Jacob reclaims his strength through his son.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• soul - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• departing - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• dying - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• she - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• his - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• name - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• father - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• called - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• benjamin - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What does it mean for you to recognize both sorrow and joy in your life, and how can you find hope in the midst of your struggles?

Related Verses

• Isaiah 53:3 - This verse speaks about a man of sorrows, reflecting the depth of pain found in life, just like Rachel felt. It reminds us that sorrow can lead to something greater.
• 1 Samuel 10:1 - Samuel anoints Saul as king, showing how new beginnings can rise from moments of despair, similar to how Jacob embraced Benjamin’s arrival.
• Jeremiah 31:15 - This verse talks about Rachel weeping for her children, connecting her sorrow to the larger narrative of loss and hope in Israel's history.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Genesis 35:18. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Obedience to God, Purity and worship, Divine protection, Covenant renewal, Identity and transformation, Joy and sorrow, Legacy and remembrance

Key Verses

Genesis 35:1, Genesis 35:10, Genesis 35:11, Genesis 35:16, Genesis 35:19

Historical Context

Genesis was written during Israel's wilderness journey, around 1440-1400 BC, as a foundational text revealing God's character and His relationship with humanity. Chapter 35 occurs after Jacob has reconciled with Esau and is in a transitional phase of his life. The chapter highlights God's faithfulness to Jacob and the importance of returning to one's spiritual roots. The themes of identity and covenant are prevalent, with Jacob receiving a new name that signifies his role in God's redemptive plan. Additionally, the chapter underscores the importance of worship and the acknowledgment of God's presence in life's journey.