Old Testament
Genesis 31:35
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
She said to her father, "Please don't be angry, my lord, that I am unable to stand up in your presence. I am having my monthly period." So he searched but did not find the idols.
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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.
What Genesis 31:35 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Rachel speaks to her father, Laban, asking him not to be upset because she cannot stand before him. She explains that she is experiencing her monthly period, which is a natural part of life. This situation highlights the cultural norms of the time, where such conditions were considered significant. Laban, unaware of the hidden idols, searches for them but finds nothing. Rachel's cleverness in using her condition to protect her secret shows her resourcefulness. This interaction reveals the tension between family loyalty and personal choices. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting personal boundaries, even in familial relationships. Rachel's actions reflect the complexities of navigating family dynamics while holding onto one's beliefs and values. This story reminds us that sometimes, we must make difficult choices to protect what is important to us, even if it means bending the truth a little. It illustrates the lengths we go to for our loved ones and the challenges we face in maintaining our integrity.
How to apply Genesis 31:35 to your life
In our lives, we often face situations where we must balance family expectations with our own values. It's important to communicate openly and respectfully, even when it's difficult. Remember that personal boundaries are essential for healthy relationships. Protecting what matters to us sometimes requires creativity and courage. Stay true to yourself while navigating family dynamics wisely.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jacob's story: Laban Overtakes Jacob (Genesis 31:22–55)
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Jacob
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Key themes
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 Genesis 31:35 mean?
Genesis 31:35 describes Rachel's conversation with her father, Laban, where she explains her inability to stand before him due to her monthly period. This highlights cultural norms regarding menstruation and Rachel's cleverness in using her condition to protect her secret about the stolen idols.
What is the significance of Rachel's statement in Genesis 31:35?
Rachel's statement in Genesis 31:35 reflects the cultural attitudes toward menstruation at the time, showing how it was viewed as a significant reason for her inability to stand. It also illustrates her resourcefulness in using this explanation to divert attention from the hidden idols.
What does the phrase 'the custom of women is upon me' mean in Genesis 31:35?
The phrase 'the custom of women is upon me' in Genesis 31:35 refers to Rachel's menstrual period, which was considered a natural and significant condition that affected her ability to rise before her father.
How does Genesis 31:35 relate to family dynamics?
Genesis 31:35 illustrates the complexities of family dynamics, as Rachel navigates her loyalty to her father while also protecting her own interests. It emphasizes the importance of personal boundaries and the challenges of maintaining integrity within family relationships.
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