Old Testament

Genesis 29:35

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ClearClear Bible Translation

She became pregnant yet again and gave birth to a son. She said, "This time I will praise the LORD." So she named him Judah. After that, she stopped having children.

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KJVKing James Version

And she conceived again, and bare a son: and she said, Now will I praise the LORD: therefore she called his name Judah; and left bearing.

What Genesis 29:35 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this passage, Leah, who is one of Jacob's wives, has another son and decides to name him Judah. This time, she expresses her intention to praise the LORD for this blessing. The name Judah means 'praise,' reflecting her gratitude. Leah had been struggling with feelings of inadequacy and competition with her sister Rachel, who was also married to Jacob. With the birth of Judah, Leah finds a moment of joy and recognition of God's goodness in her life. After Judah's birth, she stops having children, marking a significant moment in her journey. This story highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating the blessings we receive, even amidst struggles. Leah's choice to praise God shows that gratitude can transform our perspective and bring peace to our hearts, regardless of our circumstances. It reminds us that every child, every blessing, is an opportunity to acknowledge the divine in our lives and to express our thanks openly and joyfully. Leah's journey is a testament to the power of gratitude.

How to apply Genesis 29:35 to your life

Take a moment to reflect on the blessings in your life, no matter how small. Consider expressing your gratitude through words or actions. Recognizing what you have can shift your focus from what you lack to the abundance around you. Let this practice of gratitude bring you peace and joy daily. Celebrate your blessings openly, just like Leah did with Judah's birth. “Praise” can be a powerful response to life’s challenges and gifts.

Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary

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A painting of Rachel holding her newborn son Joseph in a tent as Jacob bends toward them, smiling

Illustrated scene from Jacob's story: Jacob's Children (Genesis 29:31–30:24)

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Jacob

A ruined stone tower with a doorway at Burj Beitin, lit by low evening sun under a cloudy sky.

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.

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Bethel

Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.

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At a Glance — the Book of Genesis

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does the name Judah mean in Genesis 29:35?

The name Judah means 'praise.' In Genesis 29:35, Leah names her son Judah as an expression of her gratitude to the LORD for blessing her with another child. This reflects her desire to acknowledge God's goodness in her life, especially after feeling inadequate compared to her sister Rachel.

Why did Leah stop having children after Judah?

After the birth of Judah, Leah ceased to bear more children, which marks a significant moment in her life. This could indicate a sense of fulfillment and recognition of God's blessings, as she finally expressed her gratitude through praise. It also highlights the complexities of her relationship with Jacob and her competition with Rachel.

How does Genesis 29:35 relate to themes of gratitude?

Genesis 29:35 emphasizes the theme of gratitude through Leah's declaration of praise upon the birth of Judah. Despite her struggles and feelings of inadequacy, Leah chooses to celebrate this blessing, showcasing how recognizing and expressing gratitude can transform one's perspective and bring peace, even in challenging circumstances.

What can we learn from Leah's experience in Genesis 29:35?

Leah's experience teaches us the importance of acknowledging our blessings and expressing gratitude, regardless of our struggles. Her choice to praise God for Judah's birth serves as a reminder that every blessing is an opportunity to celebrate and recognize the divine in our lives, encouraging us to focus on abundance rather than lack.

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