Genesis 29:2 - He looked, and behold, a well in the field, and, behold, three flocks of sheep lying there by it. For out of that well they watered the flocks. The stone on the well’s mouth was large.
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What does "Genesis 29:2" mean?
This verse sets the scene for a significant encounter in the story of Jacob. Let's break down what it means:
"He looked, and behold, a well in the field...": Jacob arrives at his destination and immediately sees a well. Wells were crucial sources of water in arid regions, making them important gathering places.
"...and, behold, three flocks of sheep lying there by it.": The presence of three flocks indicates that this is a common watering spot, a public well used by multiple shepherds. The sheep are lying down because they're likely waiting their turn to be watered.
"For out of that well they watered the flocks.": This confirms the well's primary purpose: a source of water for the sheep.
"The stone on the well's mouth was large.": This detail is significant. In ancient times, wells were often covered with a stone to prevent evaporation, contamination, and accidents. The fact that this stone is large suggests that it takes considerable effort, probably multiple people, to move it. This detail sets up the challenge Jacob will soon face.
In essence, this verse is a descriptive setting of the stage, introducing:
A common meeting place: The well is a place where people (specifically shepherds) regularly congregate.
A practical obstacle: The large stone represents a logistical problem: watering the sheep requires removing the stone, which is a difficult task.
A sense of anticipation: The scene is static - the sheep are waiting. The reader anticipates action.
The importance of this verse lies in how it contributes to the larger narrative:
It foreshadows the importance of community and cooperation in managing vital resources like water.
It highlights the physical labor involved in shepherding and the need for strength.
It sets the stage for Jacob's demonstration of exceptional strength, which will impress the shepherds and, more importantly, his future wife, Rachel. Jacob will later roll the stone off the well himself, demonstrating his abilities and initiating his courtship of Rachel.
Genesis 29:2 - He looked, and behold, a well in the field, and, behold, three flocks of sheep lying there by it. For out of that well they watered the flocks. The stone on the well’s mouth was large.
What does "Genesis 29:2" mean?
This verse sets the scene for a significant encounter in the story of Jacob. Let's break down what it means:
"He looked, and behold, a well in the field...": Jacob arrives at his destination and immediately sees a well. Wells were crucial sources of water in arid regions, making them important gathering places.
"...and, behold, three flocks of sheep lying there by it.": The presence of three flocks indicates that this is a common watering spot, a public well used by multiple shepherds. The sheep are lying down because they're likely waiting their turn to be watered.
"For out of that well they watered the flocks.": This confirms the well's primary purpose: a source of water for the sheep.
"The stone on the well's mouth was large.": This detail is significant. In ancient times, wells were often covered with a stone to prevent evaporation, contamination, and accidents. The fact that this stone is large suggests that it takes considerable effort, probably multiple people, to move it. This detail sets up the challenge Jacob will soon face.
In essence, this verse is a descriptive setting of the stage, introducing:
A common meeting place: The well is a place where people (specifically shepherds) regularly congregate.
A practical obstacle: The large stone represents a logistical problem: watering the sheep requires removing the stone, which is a difficult task.
A sense of anticipation: The scene is static - the sheep are waiting. The reader anticipates action.
The importance of this verse lies in how it contributes to the larger narrative:
It foreshadows the importance of community and cooperation in managing vital resources like water.
It highlights the physical labor involved in shepherding and the need for strength.
It sets the stage for Jacob's demonstration of exceptional strength, which will impress the shepherds and, more importantly, his future wife, Rachel. Jacob will later roll the stone off the well himself, demonstrating his abilities and initiating his courtship of Rachel.