Jacob, having been a manipulator, is lumbered with another manipulator, Laban, and a battle of wits ensues between the two of them. Jacob meets Laban and Rachel and it seems that a good relationship will develop between them.
Laban offered Jacob something in return for his work. Jacob fancied Rachel and asked for her as a wife. Laban had two daughters, and Rachel was the more beautiful of the two. Jacob offered to work for 7 years for Rachel.
Laban agreed to this, and the time passed quickly. We might think it strange that the 7 years passed quickly, this seeming like an age to us, but there is a difference between love and lust. We would do well to learn patience. There then follows one of the strangest incidents on the Bible. A marriage feast ensues, but Laban gives Leah to Jacob instead. Jacob does not realise this until the morning. Either Jacob must have been very drunk or Leah must have been well covered up.
Laban gives an excuse to Jacob, and he ends up having to work another seven years. Now Leah was not much appreciated by anyone it seems. Laban wanted to get rid of her, and Jacob did not really want her. However, God had concern for her. It doesn't matter whether or not you are naturally popular with people, the Lord is on your side. So the Lord gave Leah children. Reuben, Simeon, Levi and Judah were born to her.
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