Genesis 31 - Day 31 (click here to read the chapter)
Scripture: Genesis 31:19 Commentary: The teraphim or “household gods” were associated with luck and prosperity of the family. One suggestion is that, like the lares and penates of Roman tradition, these small images guarded the threshold and hearth. They were passed from one generation to the next as part of the inheritance. The fact that Rachel was able to hide them under a saddle suggests their tiny size, though some were larger (see 1 Sam 19:13). Many of these small figurines have been found in Mesopotamia and Syro-Palestine. They were a part of the popular or local religion, not associated with temples or national cults for the major deities. One recent study has suggested they were figurines of the ancestors, but others see them as more generally related to the family’s patron deity. Laban’s frantic desire to retrieve these images suggests their importance to his family, in contrast to Jacob’s disposal of them before he departs for Canaan. Matthews, V. H., Chavalas, M. W., & Walton, J. H. (2000). The IVP Bible background commentary: Old Testament (electronic ed., Ge 31:19). Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press. Application: The bible doesn't explain to us why Rachel stole her father's "household gods" but I understand the draw of having a rabbit's foot to bring you some luck. Thank God that He is the one who "blesses" us so we don't need to rely on a charm or other object. Prayer: Lord, draw me closer to You and help me recognize all or Your blessing in my life. Comments are closed.
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January 2024
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