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Genesis 31:35

King James Version (KJV)

“In our prayers we talk to God, in our Bible study God talks to us, and we had better let God do most of the talking.”
— D.L. Moody

Genesis 31:35

Verse 35 of 55

Scripture focus

And she said to her father, Let it not displease my lord that I cannot rise up before thee; for the custom of women [is] upon me. And he searched, but found not the images.

Genesis 31:35 — KJV

Commentary

Commentary on Genesis 31:35

Theological / Devotional

I cannot rise up. Oriental custom and politeness required children of every age and rank to rise up in the presence of their parents (Lev. 19:32; 1 Kings 2:19). Rachel’s excuse was therefore hardly in order.

The custom of women. A periphrasis for the menses (cf. ch. 18:11), which under the later Mosaic legislation incurred ceremonial uncleanness (Lev. 15:19). That this particular statute was in force prior to the Mosaic law, at least among the Aramaeans, may be inferred from this passage. That Laban did not require Rachel to stand so that he might search “the camel’s furniture” may have been due to fear of defilement.

Found not the images. Thrice repeated, this phrase emphasizes the thoroughness of Laban’s search and Rachel’s success in hiding the stolen objects.

By SdaBc