Genesis 30:18
And Leah said, God hath given me my hire, because I have given my maiden to my husband: and she called his name Issachar.
Genesis 30:18 · King James Version
Meaning
Leah's words in this verse from the Book of Genesis reflect her gratitude towards God for blessing her with another son. By referring to her son Issachar as her "hire," Leah is acknowledging God's faithfulness in rewarding her for her actions. She believes that God has compensated her for giving her maid Zilpah to her husband Jacob, which ultimately resulted in the birth of Issachar. This verse showcases Leah's deep faith and her recognition of God's provision in her life. The name Issachar means "reward" or "wages," further emphasizing the idea of God fulfilling His promises to Leah. Overall, this verse highlights the theme of God's faithfulness and provision throughout the narrative of Jacob's family in the Bible.
Theological Overview
Leah's declaration in Genesis 30:18, where she expresses gratitude to God for giving her "hire" and names her son Issachar, provides an insightful theological interpretation. The word "hire" signifies a reward or recompense for her actions. By giving her maiden to her husband Jacob, Leah believes that God has rewarded her faithfulness with the birth of Issachar. This interpretation highlights the importance of obedience and sacrifice in the eyes of God, as Leah's decision to give her maid to Jacob ultimately leads to the blessing of a child. Additionally, the name "Issachar" carries significance as it means "reward" or "there is recompense" in Hebrew. This further reinforces the idea that God's faithfulness and provision are evident in Leah's life through the birth of her son. Overall, this verse showcases the faith and gratitude of Leah towards God, emphasizing the belief that obedience and sacrifice bring about divine rewards and blessings.
Genesis 30:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Leah said, God hath given me my hire, because I gave my handmaid to my husband: and she called his name Issachar.
World English Bible
Leah said, “God has given me my hire, because I gave my handmaid to my husband.” She named him Issachar.
Douay-Rheims
And said: God hath given me a reward, because I gave my handmaid to my husband. And she called his name Issachar.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then said Leah, God hath giuen me my reward, because I gaue my mayde to my husband, and she called his name Issachar.