Genesis 29

Genesis 29:23

Leah being veiled, as in ch. xxiv. 65, and it being dark, Jacob could not discern the fraud. Thus he, who beguiled his brother, and imposed on his dim-sighted father, was now, in like manner, beguiled himself

Genesis 29:31

To punish Leah for consenting to her father’s deceit, she was hated, that is, less loved than Rachel; Ver. 30

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XXIX.—Behold how cheerful and prosperous the gracious visits of a reconciled God render men! Behold, the plainness, humility, and kindness, which once prevailed in the world! How kind is it to assist others unasked; and how unnatural to refuse our relations assistance in the time of their distress! The diligent labourer is worthy of his hire. Virtuous love brings its own reward along with it. Nothing is irksome when done in fervent affection. With what deliberation ought men to proceed in marriage, even when they are assured of God’s blessing on it! How powerful is the abominable influence of a covetous heart—It will make parents to sell their children, or prostitute them as harlots, and men to impose upon their nearest friends! How justly God marks the sins of his own favourites in their chastisements; and yet mercifully tries them with disappointments, that the love of creatures may not engross their whole heart! How little comfort men have ever found in transgressing God’s original institution by taking a plurality of wives! Real marriage-love cannot be divided. Nothing can be heavier to an affectionate wife, than to have her husband’s love estranged from her. But readily the Lord takes part with them who have least help in man; and makes up in one thing what he denies to them in another. Let us, therefore, like Leah, diligently observe the providence of God, not only in the birth of children, but in every other thing which may befall us; that we may acknowledge it with gratitude, trust him more cheerfully, and praise him to his glory