“Leah’s eyes were delicate, but Rachel was beautiful of form and appearance .…. When the Lord saw that Leah was unloved, He opened her womb; but Rachel was barren.”
Genesis 29:17, 31 NKJV
Leah was nothing special to look at according to the description above. Some teachings indicate that her eyes were weak from crying, others say it was an impairment* – either way, it’s clear she was as a broken and wounded soul. She knew rejection well.
Then G-d saw that Leah was “śānē’” (H8130). The translations I read today use the word unloved but I’m not sure that’s strong enough. The word śānē means to be seen as a foe or enemy, to be hated or despised. She was rejected.
Then G-d “rā’â” Leah. He considered her, noticed her, looked upon her, and beheld her. He SAW her when others did not. Leah. One rejected by man – then SEEN by the Jehovah G-d.
When G-d saw Leah, He opened her womb and transformed her through the birthing process as she moved from affliction, to rejection, to hope of being seen, and finally to praise.
What if G-d is using the rejection and pain of this world to birth praise in and through us?
I am encouraged and reminded today that G-d sees me, He hasn’t forgotten me, and He’s birthing praise in and through me.
Abba – thank You for loving me. Thank You for seeing me. I’ve been angry and hurt over rejection by man. Help me to look to You alone for my comfort, acceptance, and love. You see the broken hearted. You provide all that I need. You are good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen.
Daily reading: Genesis 27-29