Guiding Questions: Genesis 30

This is part of the Tanakh Yomi Project.

  1. How does Genesis 30:1–3 echo Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar – and how do they differ?
  2. In the narration of births by the handmaidens, is any distinction made as to the ranking of the children or are they considered peers as descendants of Jacob?
  3. What are “mandrakes” in terms of their sexual/erotic arousal connotation and, in the vernacular, what is the male physiological connotation?
  4. In Genesis 30:15, what does the sisters’ conversation mean/imply?
  5. What “exchange” does Rachel propose and assure?
  6. In Genesis 30:16, why does Leah go out to Jacob? Does she question Rachel’s guarantee?
  7. Is the hope of Leah (Genesis 30:20) realized?
  8. Is any reason given in text for God (now) remembering “Rachel”?
  9. Jacob’s decision to return “home” (Genesis 30:25–34) will follow his “payment” by Lavan. What does the contract for payment provide?
  10. In Genesis 30:37–42, what ploys (“genetic engineering”) does Jacob employ to add to his share of the flocks?
  11. Would Genesis 30:43 suggest that years passed while the “agreement” was unfolding?

Author

  • Exploring Judaism

    Exploring Judaism is the digital home for Conservative/Masorti Judaism, embracing the beauty and complexity of Judaism, and our personal search for meaning, learning, and connecting. Our goal is to create content based on three core framing: Meaning-Making (Why?), Practical Living (How?), and Explainers (What?).

    View all posts

Perek Yomi materials originally produced by the USCJ and Dr. Morton K. Siegel.
We are grateful to be able to share this material.

Author

  • Exploring Judaism

    Exploring Judaism is the digital home for Conservative/Masorti Judaism, embracing the beauty and complexity of Judaism, and our personal search for meaning, learning, and connecting. Our goal is to create content based on three core framing: Meaning-Making (Why?), Practical Living (How?), and Explainers (What?).

Share This Post

Exploring Judaism Recent Posts

Find meaning in your inbox.

Subscribe to receive our latest content by email.

We won’t send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.
Got questions?