Fun House of Mazes and Mirrors

The names in the Bible are always extremely significant. 

In Genesis 29, we read the story about Leah being given to Jacob in marriage—though he wanted Rachel (her younger sister). It says that Leah had “tender eyes”—probably pretty eyes, but that Rachel had a beautiful figure and appearance. Basically, Leah was pretty, but Rachel was BEAUTIFUL. For this reason, Jacob did not love Leah as much as Rachel—but God was on the side of the oppressed, and He blessed Leah with children first. 

But here comes the interesting part: So, she has two children, both are named in recognition of this fact, that God is aiding her.

But then, the names of the next two are beautifully prophetic:

The third child’s name is “Levi”—saying “Now my husband will love me”. The name “Levi” is appropriate, because it is similar to “lavah” which means “to join”. Now, for anyone versed in the Old Testament, you know that Moses, Aaron, and the priests were all from Levi. Their job, essentially, was to join Israel to God—to perform the acts of worship, and to perform sacrifices. Theirs was the work of reconciliation. 

Hebrews tells us that Jesus was the greater High Priest—and that, like Levi, His job is to join us to God—to reconcile us to God.

Now, the fourth son’s name is “Judah”, which means literally “God will be praised”. I think it is significant that David is from the Tribe of Judah—and he wrote hundreds of Psalms and hymns to praise God. 

But then more importantly once again is Jesus—who was actually born from the tribe of Judah. Jesus’ name means literally “God saves”—and it is significant that He came from “God’s name will be praised”. 

In God’s salvation is the declaration, among all the nations that at the name of Jesus, and his salvation… well, let’s see what Romans 14:11 says:

“For the Scriptures say, “‘As surely as I live,’ says the LORD, every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will confess and give praise to God.’”“

God reconciles , joining together (Lavah, or Levi) us to Himself in the true High priest—Jesus. God saves (Yeshua, or Jesus) for the purpose of His name being praised (Yahudah, or Judah).  

Leah’s children, all the way back in Genesis, give us a glimpse into the redemptive plan of God—and she didn’t even realize it. She was just worshiping the God who had blessed her.

Peace and love, friends.