In this moving passage, God speaks directly to the matriarch
Rachel, who is known in Jewish tradition as having a special role in the redemption of her
children, the Jewish people, and their return to Israel. According to Jewish tradition, when her father Laban gave her sister Leah to
Yaakov (Jacob) in marriage in her stead,
Rachel revealed to Leah a secret sign she had made with
Yaakov in order to spare
Leah from embarrassment. Because of
Rachel’s unparalleled selflessness and love for her sister, it is
Rachel’s prayers, tears and cries for compassion to her children that are heard by God more than any other biblical figure. God promises
Rachel that those tears are not for naught, but rather “There is a reward for your labor” (verse 16) and “your children shall return to their country.” In a moving example of symbolism, this verse is often sung with emotion at Ben Gurion Airport as new Jewish immigrants arrive in Israel. Find more instances of Biblical inspiration in the modern world in
Israel365's Daily Inspirations devotional.
