November 25, 2025 • 30 mins
# 37 - Jacob Meets Rachel - In this episode of The Chosen People, Jacob’s love story takes center stage as he falls for Rachel and works seven long years to marry her, only to face a shocking betrayal. This episode delves into themes of love, perseverance, and deception, exploring how Jacob’s labor and Laban’s trickery shape his journey and relationships.
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Episode 37 of The Chosen People is inspired by the Book of Genesis.
Today's opening prayer is inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:7, “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Previously on the Chosen People. The words were a final seal,
a decisive declaration that Jacob was now the inheritor of
Isaac's promise, passed down from Abraham through Jacob, the blessing
of God most High would endure.
Speaker 2 (00:22):
I.
Speaker 3 (00:23):
You will hunt and kill him like the stag.
Speaker 1 (00:29):
Esau stormed out of the tent and looked around. His
eyes narrowed with a hunter's intensity. He grabbed his bow
and arrow, searching frantically for his twin. Panic jabbed at
Jacob's legs. He was shaking, agitated, ready to run.
Speaker 3 (00:48):
What do I do?
Speaker 4 (00:49):
Mother?
Speaker 3 (00:50):
Tell me what to do.
Speaker 5 (00:52):
Flee to Laban, my brother in heron. You can stay
with him until your brother's fury does Maybe with time
he'll forget what you've done to him.
Speaker 3 (01:01):
I refuse to let this break me. I will thrive
in Laban's household. I return richer and wiser, ready to
take back what's mine for my brother.
Speaker 1 (01:11):
Jacob opened his eyes to a vision. He found himself
standing at the base of a monumental staircase that stretched
upwards into the infinite expanse of the heavens.
Speaker 3 (01:25):
Here, you're really here.
Speaker 2 (01:30):
Look around, you, son of Isaac, behold the splendor of
this land.
Speaker 1 (01:36):
Jacob surveyed the starlit landscape. The radiance of the staircase
illuminated its rich and vibrant valleys cut with rushing rivers
and lush forests.
Speaker 2 (01:48):
The land on which you lie I will give to
you and your descendants. Your offspring shall be like the
dust of the earth. And you shall spread abroad to
the west, and to the east, and to the north
and to the south. Through you and your descendants, all
(02:11):
families of the earth will be blessed.
Speaker 1 (02:20):
The air was bitterly dry. The harsh eastern sun beat
Jacob's neck as if with hatred. Jacob groaned and moaned
with each step, missing the comforts of his tent in Canaan.
The glare stung his eyes. His steps became slower as
time passed. It had been over a month on the
(02:42):
path to Haran. Jacob's will to press on waned with
each day. But what choice did he have. He couldn't
turn back home. His brother would kill him. He couldn't
remain on the road. The sun would char him for
the buzzards to feast. Jacob needed refuge, a place to
kick up his feet and rest. He passed through the
(03:05):
borders of Haron, and the charred desert plains gave way
to slightly less brown hills, undulating like waves in a storm.
Jacob's eyes scanned the land for any sign of life.
He longed for water, food, and a pillow. His feet
schurned dust with each labored step until he made it
(03:26):
to a pasture, where the land was painted with shades
of tan, yellow and light green. More life. Jacob knew
where there was pasture, there was bound to be water. Desperately,
he turned his head to see flocks of sheep lying
down near a well.
Speaker 3 (03:44):
Ah Ah, at last, water Ah.
Speaker 1 (03:51):
Jacob mustered the strength to run toward the well, but
when he arrived he found it was sealed by a
large stone. He pounded his fists on it and pressed
his forehead down in defeat.
Speaker 3 (04:05):
Oh, just my luck.
Speaker 1 (04:09):
Just then Jacob saw a few men in the distance
herding a few sheep to the well. If Jacob had
any water left in his body, he would have cried. Instead,
he shouted with a raspy voice.
Speaker 3 (04:22):
My brothers, where have you come from?
Speaker 6 (04:25):
We're from hern.
Speaker 3 (04:27):
Do you know a chief named Laban, the son of Nahor? Well, yeah,
we know him.
Speaker 2 (04:33):
These are his borders.
Speaker 3 (04:35):
Oh, thank god, Mosai is all well with him and
his household. Sure.
Speaker 6 (04:41):
In fact, his youngest daughter, Rachel is on her way
now with her father's flock. Very nice looking flock, a
nice looking lady as well, if I.
Speaker 3 (04:50):
Do say so myself. It's high noon already, my friends,
Is it time to water your livestock? I've been traveling
a lot long while without water.
Speaker 2 (05:03):
Ah.
Speaker 6 (05:03):
Sorry, friend, we don't open up the well till all
the flocks are here. Once Rachel is here with Laban's flock,
we will open it up. Besides, we'll need extra servants
to help us move this stone. It's a heavy thing,
it is.
Speaker 1 (05:20):
Jacob shook in place, watching the silhouette of Lavin's daughter
slowly approach. His thirst multiplied with each passing second. It
seemed like an eternity. When the shepherdess and her sheep
finally reached the well, Jacob bent down to the stone
and held it off the well. Jacob plunged his head
into the water and drank. All The shepherds sprang back
(05:44):
in surprise.
Speaker 6 (05:45):
Hi, friend, that stone usually takes at least four men
to push off. How'd you do that?
Speaker 3 (05:56):
If you thought that was impressive. You should see my
brother handle an arx.
Speaker 6 (06:01):
But still that stone weighs more than three men.
Speaker 3 (06:06):
It's an odd gift given to my brother and me.
I can't explain it.
Speaker 1 (06:12):
Jacob slipped his hair back and wiped his eyes. His
thirst was finally quenched, and he could see clearly, and
what he saw took his breath away. Standing before him,
skin kissed by the sun, with amber curls draped gracefully
over her shoulders was Rachel, the daughter of Laban. She
(06:36):
looked at him with a raised brow and amused smile.
Speaker 7 (06:40):
You must have been mighty thirsty to throw that stone
like a sack of oats. Where have you come from?
Speaker 1 (06:47):
Jacob was speechless, which was an odd feeling. He cleared
his throat and opened his mouth to speak, but nothing
came out. Instead, he inched forward and held her face
in his head hands.
Speaker 8 (07:01):
What are you doing?
Speaker 1 (07:04):
Jacob kissed her on both cheeks and began to laugh.
He laughed, and he laughed, and fell on to his
knees hysterically from the exhaustion and weeks of sparse food
and water, laughter, from meeting the most beautiful woman he'd
ever seen in his life. His fit of laughter slowly
turned to sobs and tears rolled down his dusty cheeks.
Speaker 3 (07:27):
Best to step back, my lady, Rachel.
Speaker 6 (07:30):
This one seems to be a bit batty, sir.
Speaker 8 (07:33):
I think you need to leave.
Speaker 1 (07:36):
Jacob held his stomach, which was tightening as he oscillated
between hysterical laughter and weeping. He waved his hands and
stood to his feet, trying to compose himself.
Speaker 3 (07:48):
No, please, I'm not a madman. Well, I suppose a
madman doesn't know he's a madman. So if I was
a madman, I would certainly say that I wasn't. What
was your question?
Speaker 8 (08:01):
I didn't ask a question.
Speaker 3 (08:03):
Oh right, I'm sorry. My name is Jacob, the son
of Isaac and Rachel, your father's sister. I've come here
because my mother said that Laban would take me in
for a while.
Speaker 7 (08:16):
Were you sent away or something? Did you commit a crime?
Are you on the run?
Speaker 3 (08:22):
Uh? Yes? And no Uh. I've made an awful first impression.
It's been a long journey, and frankly, it doesn't help
that I was just struck by lightning. Lightning, at least
that's how I felt when I gazed upon your beauty
for the first time.
Speaker 7 (08:44):
Well, yes, that's very lovely for you to say. I'm
going to run and fetch my father for you.
Speaker 3 (08:52):
I can go with you.
Speaker 7 (08:53):
No, no, that won't be necessary. You've had a long journey.
Remain here while I get my father. My friends will
give you some of their bread.
Speaker 1 (09:06):
Jacob watched Rachel leave, eyes wide with embarrassment. He buried
his face in his hands and groaned, but.
Speaker 6 (09:16):
You wish you were struck by lightning after that. Ah,
here's some bread and a swig of whine to forget
that dreadful moment.
Speaker 1 (09:27):
Jacob laughed at himself and gladly accepted. He rolled the
bread in his hands and watched Rachel recede from view.
He sighed and smiled. Jacob was fatigued and uncertain of
his mental state, but one thing he was sure of
was this. He was madly in love with the shepherdess Rachel.
(09:50):
Larban's wide, hairy frame lumbered up the slight slope leading
to the well. For a moment, Jacob thought he was
looking at an aged Esau approaching Laban wrapped Jacob in
his arms without warning and lifted him off the ground.
Speaker 4 (10:06):
Ah, my own bonent flesh, look at you, a spitting
image of my sister. Only you got a little scruff
on your chin.
Speaker 3 (10:15):
Ha ha ha, Lord Layman, it would be a great act
of mercy if you'd give me sanctuary here for a
while as my mother's kinsmen.
Speaker 4 (10:24):
What's this, lord nonsense? You're my sweet sister's son. You'll
stay under my roof as an honored guest on a refugee. Come, Come,
there's a hot pot on the flame.
Speaker 1 (10:38):
Larban led Jacob to his camp. Larban's wealth and resources
nearly rivaled his father's. Fires were set between sights, with
large thick tents firmly erected on each corner of the
bordered estate. Jacob looked at the servants, herders, and farm hands.
They all wore finely woven robes, matching in color and design,
(11:01):
green with purple fringes. The women wore the same colored
purple headbands and green sashes. Jacob observed the servants or
sweeping in unison while the children help prepare dishes that
were neatly stacked in rows in wooden boxes. Everything had
its place, Everything was in order, just the way Jacob
(11:22):
liked it. They entered the large gathering tent where the
main family dined Laban's wife had just reclined with her daughters.
Speaker 4 (11:33):
This is my eldest daughter, Leah, and of course you
already met my younger daughter Rachel. I haven't been blessed
with sons, but she's been a fine herder for me.
Beside them are Zilpah and Bilha. They are daughters born
to me through let's say, more unsavory circumstances. They are
now the maid servants of my daughters.
Speaker 3 (11:56):
It's an honor to meet you all.
Speaker 1 (11:59):
Jacob bowed his head, stealing a glance in Rachel's direction.
She looked more ravishing in the torchlight, flickering flames illuminating
her amber curls, full lips, and wide greenish hazel eyes.
The very sight of her made Jacob swoon. He smiled,
looking for anything in return. She didn't give him the satisfaction.
(12:22):
He turned his eyes to Leah, who smiled intently at him.
Her complexion was redder than her sister's, with eyes that
resembled the morning fog banks. Jacob couldn't tell if Lea
was unsightly or if Rachel's beauty overshadowed any of her
redeeming qualities.
Speaker 5 (12:41):
May God bless you, Jacob. We pray your time here
is refreshing.
Speaker 8 (12:45):
You certainly need it and.
Speaker 4 (12:47):
The bath, Rachel, you've lost your manners. I'm sorry, my boy.
My youngest spends too much time with the shepherd's she
forgets how to be a lady.
Speaker 3 (12:58):
I take no offense. Lord Rachel saw me at my
worst to day. I pray she doesn't hold it against me.
Speaker 1 (13:06):
Jacob searched her again for any slight movement of her
chin or eyes. Nothing, he continued.
Speaker 3 (13:14):
It's the custom of my father's household to never accept
a gift without giving a gift in return. I'd ask
that Rachel let me tend to her flocks while I
stay here.
Speaker 1 (13:25):
There, it was a slight twist of her beautiful lips
curling upward. It was only for a moment, but Jacob
knew he'd had her, and because he couldn't help himself,
he added, the.
Speaker 3 (13:39):
Time away from the flocks may allow her to regain
those manners she lost, and.
Speaker 1 (13:45):
The smile left replaced with a roll of the eyes.
But to Jacob, a roll of the eyes was just
as satisfying as a smile. He was in her mind
for a moment. He wanted to live there forever. A
month had passed, and Jacob cheerfully tended Laban's flock daily.
(14:06):
The house of Laban was a pleasant respite from the
chaotic mess he left behind. Jacob applied the knowledge he
learned from his father to Laban's flock. Isaac had a
way of breeding sheep, weeding out specific blemishes and weaknesses.
He was a savant that way, much like his dear
brother was with hunting. He thought about them often, but
(14:29):
knew he couldn't yet return. No doubt, Esau's blood still
boiled hot with betrayal. Jacob led the flocks to an
enclosed pasture and returned to the dining tent. Leah was there,
weaving a cord of flowers for a centerpiece. Her dull
face turned brighter any time Jacob entered the room.
Speaker 5 (14:49):
Hello, Jacob, how is your day?
Speaker 6 (14:53):
Um?
Speaker 3 (14:53):
Fine? I suppose where's Rachel?
Speaker 5 (14:56):
Probably chopping wood somewhere with her calloused hands. I swear
sometimes I think she purposefully acts like a boy to
please father.
Speaker 1 (15:05):
Jacob wasn't listening. He fiddled with his cup, staring at
the tense entrance. Rachel entered with her servant Bella, and
Jacob quickly moved, leaving Lea behind. He composed himself before
greeting her, straightening his robes and hair suavely. He approached
Good evening, Rachel.
Speaker 7 (15:26):
Good evening, Jacob. How are my father's.
Speaker 3 (15:28):
Flax growing more beautiful by the day. I've scattered some
olive leaves around for them, and it's given their wool
an excellent sheen.
Speaker 8 (15:37):
Very clever, Jacob, I thought.
Speaker 3 (15:39):
So, your flocks have been in good hands. Rachel.
Speaker 7 (15:43):
I doubted that at first, since I took you for
a madman.
Speaker 3 (15:49):
Oh Rachel, in many ways I am a madman.
Speaker 1 (15:54):
Jacob smiled and looked deeply into Rachel's eyes. At first,
the stare made Rachel uncome comfortable, but as time passed
she had grown to enjoy it. The moment was abruptly
interrupted with Larbin's entrance.
Speaker 4 (16:09):
Jacob, come, my boy, sit beside me tonight as we eat.
Speaker 1 (16:14):
Jacob sat beside Larbin, who gave him a firm pat.
Speaker 3 (16:17):
On the back.
Speaker 4 (16:19):
Jacob, I was thinking about what my sister would say
if she knew you were working here without a wage.
Were kinsmen. You're not my servant or slave. I should
pay you for the excellent work you're doing. What shall
your wages be.
Speaker 3 (16:34):
You're very kind as always, Lord Layban, I've actually given
that question quite a bit of thought.
Speaker 4 (16:42):
Haha, of course you have.
Speaker 3 (16:44):
You're a shrewd man.
Speaker 4 (16:45):
What's your price for the work.
Speaker 1 (16:48):
Jacob turned his gaze back at Rachel. She glanced back,
wondering why he was looking at her. Her smile curled
on the edges of Jacob's face. He turned to with
a glint in his eye.
Speaker 3 (17:02):
I'll serve you for seven more years. That should be
more than enough for your youngest daughter, Rachel's hand in marriage.
Speaker 1 (17:10):
Rachel nearly choked on her food. Leo gosed in horror,
but laughing is perfectly still stroking his beard and considering
the exchange.
Speaker 8 (17:21):
Father, are you considering his offer? What are you going
to do? Oh?
Speaker 4 (17:29):
Yes, well, I suppose it's better I give her to you,
a kinsman, than another dog from another clan wanting to
swap rocks and land. You have yourself a deal?
Speaker 8 (17:46):
A deal?
Speaker 5 (17:48):
Father? Is Rachel really to marry before me?
Speaker 4 (17:51):
I'm your lord, father. I'll hear no complaints or moans
about my decisions. Rachel will marry Jacob after seven years
of labor.
Speaker 1 (18:01):
They shook on it and Rachel stormed out of the tent.
Leah simply sat there, quiet and dejected. Her servant Zilpa,
comforted her. Jacob followed Rachel out. Dusk wrestled against ay,
and the sun's final rays were being pushed behind the mountains.
Rachel looked out at the valley with her shoulder leaning
(18:23):
against the thick trunk of a sycamore tree. Its leaves
swayed gently to the evening breeze, soothing her chaotic mind.
Jacob approached softly and spoke.
Speaker 3 (18:34):
Tenderly, Are you okay, Rachel?
Speaker 1 (18:37):
She turned her face to him, greenish brown eyes seeming
almost golden in the final light of dusk. Her beauty
unsteadied him.
Speaker 3 (18:45):
At times, would marrying me be such a terrible thing?
Speaker 1 (18:52):
Rachel allowed a slight smile to escape from her frown.
She shook her head and responded with an uncharacteristic gentle tone.
Speaker 8 (19:02):
Of course, not, Jacob.
Speaker 7 (19:04):
You come from a good family, with a good birthright
waiting for you at home. But I wonder, are you
a good man?
Speaker 3 (19:12):
That's a difficult question to answer. My father's a good man.
My grandfather was a great man. That we shall see
about me.
Speaker 8 (19:23):
We shall see, indeed.
Speaker 3 (19:25):
One thing that's certain, dear Rachel, is that I do
love you, And seven years of labor for your hand
will seem like lear moments as long as I get
to see you every day.
Speaker 7 (19:37):
You're much more eloquent than the first time we met.
Speaker 3 (19:41):
Yes, you've seen me at my worst. Now give me
a chance you'll see me at my best.
Speaker 1 (19:48):
Rachel allowed a full smile to grace her face. She
reached out her hand and Jacob took it. They watched
the skies for a long while, silently longing for a
tie to embrace. Yet behind them, peeking out from the
large tent was Lea, her brow furrowed and her lips pursed.
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Her unrequited love for Jacob was as enduring as the
stars in the sky. Jacob looked at his reflection in
the still pond. He rubbed his face, observing the scruff
that had turned into a meager looking beard. His mother
had always joked that Esau stole all his hair in
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the womb. He could never quite grow a full beard,
which made him wildly and securer times, especially on a
day like this one. It had been seven years since
his agreement with Larban. He had worked tirelessly expanding Larban's
flocks sevenfold. Each year, the flocks became more beautiful, as
did Rachel. They had grown much closer in seven years,
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often stealing away moments to walk by the streams or
eat dates over the pond's edge. The years passed by
like a few days because of the love he had
for her.
Speaker 3 (21:07):
Lee been, it's been seven years tending to your flocks.
I'm here now too, humbly ask for Rachel.
Speaker 4 (21:15):
Of course, dear boy. Let's have a feast, a wonderful
feast to celebrate the occasion. Wine will flow like the
rivers of Eden. Food will be bursting out of our ears.
Speaker 1 (21:29):
That night, music, dancing, and laughter abounded. Everyone in the
clan gathered for a decadent feast, lambshanks with juniper jam,
date cakes and roasted figs, wine imported from the vineyards
of Goor. Jacob feasted and drank to his heart's content,
but Rachel was silent and unwilling to celebrate. Jacob plumped
(21:53):
beside her and leaned in.
Speaker 3 (21:55):
I haven't seen your sister all night. She's usually paddling
behind me like a lost pup. It's been rather nice
having some space, is.
Speaker 8 (22:05):
She I'm not sure.
Speaker 3 (22:09):
Rachel, what's wrong, my love? Why does your beautiful face
hang low on such a joyous occasion. Don't you want to.
Speaker 4 (22:18):
Be with me?
Speaker 8 (22:20):
Of course I do, Jacob.
Speaker 3 (22:22):
Then we shall be together tonight.
Speaker 4 (22:25):
Not yet, dear boy, the night has only begun. Drink, laugh,
and enjoy this special night. I shall have my servants
prepare your bride and send her to your tent.
Speaker 1 (22:36):
The festivities continued, as did Jacob's drinking. Larbon ensured the
servants always kept his cup filled in the conversation light.
When the time came for Jacob to bed his wife,
thus sealing the marriage covenant, he stumbled to his tent.
He fell into the dirt in front and crawled.
Speaker 3 (22:55):
In Rachel, your husband has arrived.
Speaker 1 (23:03):
He saw his wife adorned in a beautiful gown of purple,
green and white. She wore a thin veil, as was
the custom. Jacob slapped himself, trying to sober up.
Speaker 5 (23:15):
I am waiting for you, my husband.
Speaker 3 (23:18):
I've waited seven years for this moment, ah, as have I, Jacob.
Speaker 1 (23:25):
Jacob gently but clumsily, took her by the hips and
drew her in close. In the back of his mind,
he wished he had not drank so much he would
have been able to save with the moment. Without the
inside of his tent spinning, the two sealed the marriage
covenant by lying with each other. Their passionate breaths rose
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with the heat of the flickering candles. When they were finished,
Jacob released a sigh of bliss and lay his head
down to sleep. The woman beside him, now his wife,
blew out the candles and laid her head on his chest.
Speaker 5 (24:03):
Ah, I love you, Rachel, I love you, Jacob.
Speaker 1 (24:11):
Jacob's eyes creaked open. Dawn broke into his tent through
an opening in the roof, uninvited. He propped himself up
and rubbed his head. It felt as if his skull
would crack open. He rolled his neck back and took
a drink from his water skin. He sighed, then looked
back at his bride. Her face was down on the pillow,
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hair draped over her face. Jacob pet her hair and
whispered in her.
Speaker 3 (24:38):
Ear good morning.
Speaker 1 (24:42):
She turned her head toward him, her hair falling to
the side. Jacob shouted in shock and fell backward. It
wasn't Rachel, but Leah, Leah, what are you doing here?
Speaker 5 (24:55):
I was with you last night Jacob, don't you remember?
Speaker 8 (24:58):
What's no What?
Speaker 3 (25:00):
No Ah? How is it possible? How was supposed to
be with Rachel? I?
Speaker 8 (25:04):
How? How did you?
Speaker 5 (25:05):
My father insisted that it should be this way. He
sent Rachel back to her tent and bid me meet
you in here to be your wife. We sealed the covenant.
It's done.
Speaker 3 (25:15):
That treacherous snake Leyban tricked me, I.
Speaker 5 (25:19):
Will make an excellent wife, Jacob. I swear I will
give you plenty of sons and daughters.
Speaker 3 (25:25):
Where's Laban?
Speaker 1 (25:27):
Jacob left Lear and stormed out of this tent, shirt
still off and head still throbbing. Larbin was sipping a
warm cup of tea, directing some of his workers as
they cleaned.
Speaker 4 (25:39):
Layban, good morning, my son. I trust your slept well
beside your new bride. It's such an amazing moment in life.
Young What have you done to me?
Speaker 3 (25:51):
I served you for seven years for Rachel. That was
our agreement. Why have you deceived me?
Speaker 4 (25:58):
Come now, Jacob Kinsman. You know our customs. It's not
tradition to have your youngest daughter married before your eldest.
Speaker 3 (26:07):
So you chose deception instead of negotiation.
Speaker 4 (26:11):
Jacob, Jacob, you know better. I knew you wouldn't take
Lea for a bride price of seven years. I did
what I had to do. This way I get to
marry off my eldest daughter, and you work my fields
for far more years than she's worth. It's a win win. Well,
(26:33):
by that, of course, I mean that I win twice.
Speaker 1 (26:36):
Love and gave Jacob a certain look that sent shiffers
down his spine. It was the look of a serpent
behind his large, jolly Vanier was a cunning and calculating mind.
He may have looked like Esau, but he was more
like Jacob, a trickster. Jacob sobered immediately he understood who
(26:58):
he was dealing with. Now they were cut from the
same cloth. The trickster had been tricked. Jacob was angry,
but he couldn't avoid the irony. Jacob responded with a
calm and calculated look.
Speaker 3 (27:12):
You've bested me, Laban. You're surely a shrewd man. I
should have known, since you and my mother, Rebecca are
from the same line. She has a sharp mind as well.
Speaker 1 (27:25):
Flattery was how Jacob would get what he needed from Larban.
The poor man had awakened something in Jacob. Larban wasn't
the only servant in the reeds.
Speaker 3 (27:35):
I will work seven more years for Rachel. That was
the bride price we agreed upon. In seven years, I
expect to have her. There aren't any other secret daughters
I should be aware of.
Speaker 8 (27:48):
Ah.
Speaker 4 (27:48):
You are a good sport. You have yourself a deal.
Speaker 1 (27:52):
Jacob bowed his head and walked back to his tent.
Rachel was waiting nearby, eyes red from a night of tears.
Speaker 8 (28:00):
I swear, Jacob, I had no choice.
Speaker 3 (28:03):
It's going to be all right. In seven years, you'll
be mine and I'll be yours.
Speaker 8 (28:09):
But what about Leah?
Speaker 3 (28:10):
What about her? My grandfather had two wives. Why can't I?
Speaker 8 (28:15):
I'm worried that.
Speaker 3 (28:17):
Well, you are the one I love, Rachel. I will
have you as my wife, and when the time is right,
Laybad will know who he's slighted.
Speaker 1 (28:27):
Jacob placed a gentle hand on her chin and kissed
her forehead. Leah was watching intently from the distance. He
walked over to his tent and paused. He gave Leah
an indifferent look, then passed her to enter his tent.
For seven years, Jacob labored, and once the time had passed,
he was finally able to marry Rachel. The night of
(28:50):
their wedding, Jacob was completely sober, eyes clear, and heart
fluttering with love. They sealed their promise that night with passion,
under beneath the stars. To Jacob, it was well worth
the fourteen years. Yet something was hiding in the margins
between love and longing. Lea's love for Jacob, Jacob's love
(29:13):
for Rachel, Lea's contempt for Rachel, and Laban's love of
control were all brewing. Like the Eastern, Western, Southern, and
Northern winds. They were doomed to collide, causing a storm
of epic proportions. This prey Dog comproduction is only made
(29:39):
possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Katina,
Max Bard, Zach Shellabager and Ben Gammon are the executive
producers of The Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltefianu. Characters
are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan,
Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Za Parado, Thomas Copeland, Junior, Rosanna Pilcher,
(30:03):
and Mitch Leshinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by
Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie and Chris baig. You can hear
more Prey dot com productions on the Prey dot Com app,
available on the Apple App Store and Google play Store.
If you enjoyed the Chosen People, please rate and leave
a review.
Previously on the Chosen People. The words were a final seal,
a decisive declaration that Jacob was now the inheritor of
Isaac's promise, passed down from Abraham through Jacob, the blessing
of God most High would endure.
Speaker 2 (00:22):
I.
Speaker 3 (00:23):
You will hunt and kill him like the stag.
Speaker 1 (00:29):
Esau stormed out of the tent and looked around. His
eyes narrowed with a hunter's intensity. He grabbed his bow
and arrow, searching frantically for his twin. Panic jabbed at
Jacob's legs. He was shaking, agitated, ready to run.
Speaker 3 (00:48):
What do I do?
Speaker 4 (00:49):
Mother?
Speaker 3 (00:50):
Tell me what to do.
Speaker 5 (00:52):
Flee to Laban, my brother in heron. You can stay
with him until your brother's fury does Maybe with time
he'll forget what you've done to him.
Speaker 3 (01:01):
I refuse to let this break me. I will thrive
in Laban's household. I return richer and wiser, ready to
take back what's mine for my brother.
Speaker 1 (01:11):
Jacob opened his eyes to a vision. He found himself
standing at the base of a monumental staircase that stretched
upwards into the infinite expanse of the heavens.
Speaker 3 (01:25):
Here, you're really here.
Speaker 2 (01:30):
Look around, you, son of Isaac, behold the splendor of
this land.
Speaker 1 (01:36):
Jacob surveyed the starlit landscape. The radiance of the staircase
illuminated its rich and vibrant valleys cut with rushing rivers
and lush forests.
Speaker 2 (01:48):
The land on which you lie I will give to
you and your descendants. Your offspring shall be like the
dust of the earth. And you shall spread abroad to
the west, and to the east, and to the north
and to the south. Through you and your descendants, all
(02:11):
families of the earth will be blessed.
Speaker 1 (02:20):
The air was bitterly dry. The harsh eastern sun beat
Jacob's neck as if with hatred. Jacob groaned and moaned
with each step, missing the comforts of his tent in Canaan.
The glare stung his eyes. His steps became slower as
time passed. It had been over a month on the
(02:42):
path to Haran. Jacob's will to press on waned with
each day. But what choice did he have. He couldn't
turn back home. His brother would kill him. He couldn't
remain on the road. The sun would char him for
the buzzards to feast. Jacob needed refuge, a place to
kick up his feet and rest. He passed through the
(03:05):
borders of Haron, and the charred desert plains gave way
to slightly less brown hills, undulating like waves in a storm.
Jacob's eyes scanned the land for any sign of life.
He longed for water, food, and a pillow. His feet
schurned dust with each labored step until he made it
(03:26):
to a pasture, where the land was painted with shades
of tan, yellow and light green. More life. Jacob knew
where there was pasture, there was bound to be water. Desperately,
he turned his head to see flocks of sheep lying
down near a well.
Speaker 3 (03:44):
Ah Ah, at last, water Ah.
Speaker 1 (03:51):
Jacob mustered the strength to run toward the well, but
when he arrived he found it was sealed by a
large stone. He pounded his fists on it and pressed
his forehead down in defeat.
Speaker 3 (04:05):
Oh, just my luck.
Speaker 1 (04:09):
Just then Jacob saw a few men in the distance
herding a few sheep to the well. If Jacob had
any water left in his body, he would have cried. Instead,
he shouted with a raspy voice.
Speaker 3 (04:22):
My brothers, where have you come from?
Speaker 6 (04:25):
We're from hern.
Speaker 3 (04:27):
Do you know a chief named Laban, the son of Nahor? Well, yeah,
we know him.
Speaker 2 (04:33):
These are his borders.
Speaker 3 (04:35):
Oh, thank god, Mosai is all well with him and
his household. Sure.
Speaker 6 (04:41):
In fact, his youngest daughter, Rachel is on her way
now with her father's flock. Very nice looking flock, a
nice looking lady as well, if I.
Speaker 3 (04:50):
Do say so myself. It's high noon already, my friends,
Is it time to water your livestock? I've been traveling
a lot long while without water.
Speaker 2 (05:03):
Ah.
Speaker 6 (05:03):
Sorry, friend, we don't open up the well till all
the flocks are here. Once Rachel is here with Laban's flock,
we will open it up. Besides, we'll need extra servants
to help us move this stone. It's a heavy thing,
it is.
Speaker 1 (05:20):
Jacob shook in place, watching the silhouette of Lavin's daughter
slowly approach. His thirst multiplied with each passing second. It
seemed like an eternity. When the shepherdess and her sheep
finally reached the well, Jacob bent down to the stone
and held it off the well. Jacob plunged his head
into the water and drank. All The shepherds sprang back
(05:44):
in surprise.
Speaker 6 (05:45):
Hi, friend, that stone usually takes at least four men
to push off. How'd you do that?
Speaker 3 (05:56):
If you thought that was impressive. You should see my
brother handle an arx.
Speaker 6 (06:01):
But still that stone weighs more than three men.
Speaker 3 (06:06):
It's an odd gift given to my brother and me.
I can't explain it.
Speaker 1 (06:12):
Jacob slipped his hair back and wiped his eyes. His
thirst was finally quenched, and he could see clearly, and
what he saw took his breath away. Standing before him,
skin kissed by the sun, with amber curls draped gracefully
over her shoulders was Rachel, the daughter of Laban. She
(06:36):
looked at him with a raised brow and amused smile.
Speaker 7 (06:40):
You must have been mighty thirsty to throw that stone
like a sack of oats. Where have you come from?
Speaker 1 (06:47):
Jacob was speechless, which was an odd feeling. He cleared
his throat and opened his mouth to speak, but nothing
came out. Instead, he inched forward and held her face
in his head hands.
Speaker 8 (07:01):
What are you doing?
Speaker 1 (07:04):
Jacob kissed her on both cheeks and began to laugh.
He laughed, and he laughed, and fell on to his
knees hysterically from the exhaustion and weeks of sparse food
and water, laughter, from meeting the most beautiful woman he'd
ever seen in his life. His fit of laughter slowly
turned to sobs and tears rolled down his dusty cheeks.
Speaker 3 (07:27):
Best to step back, my lady, Rachel.
Speaker 6 (07:30):
This one seems to be a bit batty, sir.
Speaker 8 (07:33):
I think you need to leave.
Speaker 1 (07:36):
Jacob held his stomach, which was tightening as he oscillated
between hysterical laughter and weeping. He waved his hands and
stood to his feet, trying to compose himself.
Speaker 3 (07:48):
No, please, I'm not a madman. Well, I suppose a
madman doesn't know he's a madman. So if I was
a madman, I would certainly say that I wasn't. What
was your question?
Speaker 8 (08:01):
I didn't ask a question.
Speaker 3 (08:03):
Oh right, I'm sorry. My name is Jacob, the son
of Isaac and Rachel, your father's sister. I've come here
because my mother said that Laban would take me in
for a while.
Speaker 7 (08:16):
Were you sent away or something? Did you commit a crime?
Are you on the run?
Speaker 3 (08:22):
Uh? Yes? And no Uh. I've made an awful first impression.
It's been a long journey, and frankly, it doesn't help
that I was just struck by lightning. Lightning, at least
that's how I felt when I gazed upon your beauty
for the first time.
Speaker 7 (08:44):
Well, yes, that's very lovely for you to say. I'm
going to run and fetch my father for you.
Speaker 3 (08:52):
I can go with you.
Speaker 7 (08:53):
No, no, that won't be necessary. You've had a long journey.
Remain here while I get my father. My friends will
give you some of their bread.
Speaker 1 (09:06):
Jacob watched Rachel leave, eyes wide with embarrassment. He buried
his face in his hands and groaned, but.
Speaker 6 (09:16):
You wish you were struck by lightning after that. Ah,
here's some bread and a swig of whine to forget
that dreadful moment.
Speaker 1 (09:27):
Jacob laughed at himself and gladly accepted. He rolled the
bread in his hands and watched Rachel recede from view.
He sighed and smiled. Jacob was fatigued and uncertain of
his mental state, but one thing he was sure of
was this. He was madly in love with the shepherdess Rachel.
(09:50):
Larban's wide, hairy frame lumbered up the slight slope leading
to the well. For a moment, Jacob thought he was
looking at an aged Esau approaching Laban wrapped Jacob in
his arms without warning and lifted him off the ground.
Speaker 4 (10:06):
Ah, my own bonent flesh, look at you, a spitting
image of my sister. Only you got a little scruff
on your chin.
Speaker 3 (10:15):
Ha ha ha, Lord Layman, it would be a great act
of mercy if you'd give me sanctuary here for a
while as my mother's kinsmen.
Speaker 4 (10:24):
What's this, lord nonsense? You're my sweet sister's son. You'll
stay under my roof as an honored guest on a refugee. Come, Come,
there's a hot pot on the flame.
Speaker 1 (10:38):
Larban led Jacob to his camp. Larban's wealth and resources
nearly rivaled his father's. Fires were set between sights, with
large thick tents firmly erected on each corner of the
bordered estate. Jacob looked at the servants, herders, and farm hands.
They all wore finely woven robes, matching in color and design,
(11:01):
green with purple fringes. The women wore the same colored
purple headbands and green sashes. Jacob observed the servants or
sweeping in unison while the children help prepare dishes that
were neatly stacked in rows in wooden boxes. Everything had
its place, Everything was in order, just the way Jacob
(11:22):
liked it. They entered the large gathering tent where the
main family dined Laban's wife had just reclined with her daughters.
Speaker 4 (11:33):
This is my eldest daughter, Leah, and of course you
already met my younger daughter Rachel. I haven't been blessed
with sons, but she's been a fine herder for me.
Beside them are Zilpah and Bilha. They are daughters born
to me through let's say, more unsavory circumstances. They are
now the maid servants of my daughters.
Speaker 3 (11:56):
It's an honor to meet you all.
Speaker 1 (11:59):
Jacob bowed his head, stealing a glance in Rachel's direction.
She looked more ravishing in the torchlight, flickering flames illuminating
her amber curls, full lips, and wide greenish hazel eyes.
The very sight of her made Jacob swoon. He smiled,
looking for anything in return. She didn't give him the satisfaction.
(12:22):
He turned his eyes to Leah, who smiled intently at him.
Her complexion was redder than her sister's, with eyes that
resembled the morning fog banks. Jacob couldn't tell if Lea
was unsightly or if Rachel's beauty overshadowed any of her
redeeming qualities.
Speaker 5 (12:41):
May God bless you, Jacob. We pray your time here
is refreshing.
Speaker 8 (12:45):
You certainly need it and.
Speaker 4 (12:47):
The bath, Rachel, you've lost your manners. I'm sorry, my boy.
My youngest spends too much time with the shepherd's she
forgets how to be a lady.
Speaker 3 (12:58):
I take no offense. Lord Rachel saw me at my
worst to day. I pray she doesn't hold it against me.
Speaker 1 (13:06):
Jacob searched her again for any slight movement of her
chin or eyes. Nothing, he continued.
Speaker 3 (13:14):
It's the custom of my father's household to never accept
a gift without giving a gift in return. I'd ask
that Rachel let me tend to her flocks while I
stay here.
Speaker 1 (13:25):
There, it was a slight twist of her beautiful lips
curling upward. It was only for a moment, but Jacob
knew he'd had her, and because he couldn't help himself,
he added, the.
Speaker 3 (13:39):
Time away from the flocks may allow her to regain
those manners she lost, and.
Speaker 1 (13:45):
The smile left replaced with a roll of the eyes.
But to Jacob, a roll of the eyes was just
as satisfying as a smile. He was in her mind
for a moment. He wanted to live there forever. A
month had passed, and Jacob cheerfully tended Laban's flock daily.
(14:06):
The house of Laban was a pleasant respite from the
chaotic mess he left behind. Jacob applied the knowledge he
learned from his father to Laban's flock. Isaac had a
way of breeding sheep, weeding out specific blemishes and weaknesses.
He was a savant that way, much like his dear
brother was with hunting. He thought about them often, but
(14:29):
knew he couldn't yet return. No doubt, Esau's blood still
boiled hot with betrayal. Jacob led the flocks to an
enclosed pasture and returned to the dining tent. Leah was there,
weaving a cord of flowers for a centerpiece. Her dull
face turned brighter any time Jacob entered the room.
Speaker 5 (14:49):
Hello, Jacob, how is your day?
Speaker 6 (14:53):
Um?
Speaker 3 (14:53):
Fine? I suppose where's Rachel?
Speaker 5 (14:56):
Probably chopping wood somewhere with her calloused hands. I swear
sometimes I think she purposefully acts like a boy to
please father.
Speaker 1 (15:05):
Jacob wasn't listening. He fiddled with his cup, staring at
the tense entrance. Rachel entered with her servant Bella, and
Jacob quickly moved, leaving Lea behind. He composed himself before
greeting her, straightening his robes and hair suavely. He approached
Good evening, Rachel.
Speaker 7 (15:26):
Good evening, Jacob. How are my father's.
Speaker 3 (15:28):
Flax growing more beautiful by the day. I've scattered some
olive leaves around for them, and it's given their wool
an excellent sheen.
Speaker 8 (15:37):
Very clever, Jacob, I thought.
Speaker 3 (15:39):
So, your flocks have been in good hands. Rachel.
Speaker 7 (15:43):
I doubted that at first, since I took you for
a madman.
Speaker 3 (15:49):
Oh Rachel, in many ways I am a madman.
Speaker 1 (15:54):
Jacob smiled and looked deeply into Rachel's eyes. At first,
the stare made Rachel uncome comfortable, but as time passed
she had grown to enjoy it. The moment was abruptly
interrupted with Larbin's entrance.
Speaker 4 (16:09):
Jacob, come, my boy, sit beside me tonight as we eat.
Speaker 1 (16:14):
Jacob sat beside Larbin, who gave him a firm pat.
Speaker 3 (16:17):
On the back.
Speaker 4 (16:19):
Jacob, I was thinking about what my sister would say
if she knew you were working here without a wage.
Were kinsmen. You're not my servant or slave. I should
pay you for the excellent work you're doing. What shall
your wages be.
Speaker 3 (16:34):
You're very kind as always, Lord Layban, I've actually given
that question quite a bit of thought.
Speaker 4 (16:42):
Haha, of course you have.
Speaker 3 (16:44):
You're a shrewd man.
Speaker 4 (16:45):
What's your price for the work.
Speaker 1 (16:48):
Jacob turned his gaze back at Rachel. She glanced back,
wondering why he was looking at her. Her smile curled
on the edges of Jacob's face. He turned to with
a glint in his eye.
Speaker 3 (17:02):
I'll serve you for seven more years. That should be
more than enough for your youngest daughter, Rachel's hand in marriage.
Speaker 1 (17:10):
Rachel nearly choked on her food. Leo gosed in horror,
but laughing is perfectly still stroking his beard and considering
the exchange.
Speaker 8 (17:21):
Father, are you considering his offer? What are you going
to do? Oh?
Speaker 4 (17:29):
Yes, well, I suppose it's better I give her to you,
a kinsman, than another dog from another clan wanting to
swap rocks and land. You have yourself a deal?
Speaker 8 (17:46):
A deal?
Speaker 5 (17:48):
Father? Is Rachel really to marry before me?
Speaker 4 (17:51):
I'm your lord, father. I'll hear no complaints or moans
about my decisions. Rachel will marry Jacob after seven years
of labor.
Speaker 1 (18:01):
They shook on it and Rachel stormed out of the tent.
Leah simply sat there, quiet and dejected. Her servant Zilpa,
comforted her. Jacob followed Rachel out. Dusk wrestled against ay,
and the sun's final rays were being pushed behind the mountains.
Rachel looked out at the valley with her shoulder leaning
(18:23):
against the thick trunk of a sycamore tree. Its leaves
swayed gently to the evening breeze, soothing her chaotic mind.
Jacob approached softly and spoke.
Speaker 3 (18:34):
Tenderly, Are you okay, Rachel?
Speaker 1 (18:37):
She turned her face to him, greenish brown eyes seeming
almost golden in the final light of dusk. Her beauty
unsteadied him.
Speaker 3 (18:45):
At times, would marrying me be such a terrible thing?
Speaker 1 (18:52):
Rachel allowed a slight smile to escape from her frown.
She shook her head and responded with an uncharacteristic gentle tone.
Speaker 8 (19:02):
Of course, not, Jacob.
Speaker 7 (19:04):
You come from a good family, with a good birthright
waiting for you at home. But I wonder, are you
a good man?
Speaker 3 (19:12):
That's a difficult question to answer. My father's a good man.
My grandfather was a great man. That we shall see
about me.
Speaker 8 (19:23):
We shall see, indeed.
Speaker 3 (19:25):
One thing that's certain, dear Rachel, is that I do
love you, And seven years of labor for your hand
will seem like lear moments as long as I get
to see you every day.
Speaker 7 (19:37):
You're much more eloquent than the first time we met.
Speaker 3 (19:41):
Yes, you've seen me at my worst. Now give me
a chance you'll see me at my best.
Speaker 1 (19:48):
Rachel allowed a full smile to grace her face. She
reached out her hand and Jacob took it. They watched
the skies for a long while, silently longing for a
tie to embrace. Yet behind them, peeking out from the
large tent was Lea, her brow furrowed and her lips pursed.
(20:09):
Her unrequited love for Jacob was as enduring as the
stars in the sky. Jacob looked at his reflection in
the still pond. He rubbed his face, observing the scruff
that had turned into a meager looking beard. His mother
had always joked that Esau stole all his hair in
(20:31):
the womb. He could never quite grow a full beard,
which made him wildly and securer times, especially on a
day like this one. It had been seven years since
his agreement with Larban. He had worked tirelessly expanding Larban's
flocks sevenfold. Each year, the flocks became more beautiful, as
did Rachel. They had grown much closer in seven years,
(20:55):
often stealing away moments to walk by the streams or
eat dates over the pond's edge. The years passed by
like a few days because of the love he had
for her.
Speaker 3 (21:07):
Lee been, it's been seven years tending to your flocks.
I'm here now too, humbly ask for Rachel.
Speaker 4 (21:15):
Of course, dear boy. Let's have a feast, a wonderful
feast to celebrate the occasion. Wine will flow like the
rivers of Eden. Food will be bursting out of our ears.
Speaker 1 (21:29):
That night, music, dancing, and laughter abounded. Everyone in the
clan gathered for a decadent feast, lambshanks with juniper jam,
date cakes and roasted figs, wine imported from the vineyards
of Goor. Jacob feasted and drank to his heart's content,
but Rachel was silent and unwilling to celebrate. Jacob plumped
(21:53):
beside her and leaned in.
Speaker 3 (21:55):
I haven't seen your sister all night. She's usually paddling
behind me like a lost pup. It's been rather nice
having some space, is.
Speaker 8 (22:05):
She I'm not sure.
Speaker 3 (22:09):
Rachel, what's wrong, my love? Why does your beautiful face
hang low on such a joyous occasion. Don't you want to.
Speaker 4 (22:18):
Be with me?
Speaker 8 (22:20):
Of course I do, Jacob.
Speaker 3 (22:22):
Then we shall be together tonight.
Speaker 4 (22:25):
Not yet, dear boy, the night has only begun. Drink, laugh,
and enjoy this special night. I shall have my servants
prepare your bride and send her to your tent.
Speaker 1 (22:36):
The festivities continued, as did Jacob's drinking. Larbon ensured the
servants always kept his cup filled in the conversation light.
When the time came for Jacob to bed his wife,
thus sealing the marriage covenant, he stumbled to his tent.
He fell into the dirt in front and crawled.
Speaker 3 (22:55):
In Rachel, your husband has arrived.
Speaker 1 (23:03):
He saw his wife adorned in a beautiful gown of purple,
green and white. She wore a thin veil, as was
the custom. Jacob slapped himself, trying to sober up.
Speaker 5 (23:15):
I am waiting for you, my husband.
Speaker 3 (23:18):
I've waited seven years for this moment, ah, as have I, Jacob.
Speaker 1 (23:25):
Jacob gently but clumsily, took her by the hips and
drew her in close. In the back of his mind,
he wished he had not drank so much he would
have been able to save with the moment. Without the
inside of his tent spinning, the two sealed the marriage
covenant by lying with each other. Their passionate breaths rose
(23:46):
with the heat of the flickering candles. When they were finished,
Jacob released a sigh of bliss and lay his head
down to sleep. The woman beside him, now his wife,
blew out the candles and laid her head on his chest.
Speaker 5 (24:03):
Ah, I love you, Rachel, I love you, Jacob.
Speaker 1 (24:11):
Jacob's eyes creaked open. Dawn broke into his tent through
an opening in the roof, uninvited. He propped himself up
and rubbed his head. It felt as if his skull
would crack open. He rolled his neck back and took
a drink from his water skin. He sighed, then looked
back at his bride. Her face was down on the pillow,
(24:33):
hair draped over her face. Jacob pet her hair and
whispered in her.
Speaker 3 (24:38):
Ear good morning.
Speaker 1 (24:42):
She turned her head toward him, her hair falling to
the side. Jacob shouted in shock and fell backward. It
wasn't Rachel, but Leah, Leah, what are you doing here?
Speaker 5 (24:55):
I was with you last night Jacob, don't you remember?
Speaker 8 (24:58):
What's no What?
Speaker 3 (25:00):
No Ah? How is it possible? How was supposed to
be with Rachel? I?
Speaker 8 (25:04):
How? How did you?
Speaker 5 (25:05):
My father insisted that it should be this way. He
sent Rachel back to her tent and bid me meet
you in here to be your wife. We sealed the covenant.
It's done.
Speaker 3 (25:15):
That treacherous snake Leyban tricked me, I.
Speaker 5 (25:19):
Will make an excellent wife, Jacob. I swear I will
give you plenty of sons and daughters.
Speaker 3 (25:25):
Where's Laban?
Speaker 1 (25:27):
Jacob left Lear and stormed out of this tent, shirt
still off and head still throbbing. Larbin was sipping a
warm cup of tea, directing some of his workers as
they cleaned.
Speaker 4 (25:39):
Layban, good morning, my son. I trust your slept well
beside your new bride. It's such an amazing moment in life.
Young What have you done to me?
Speaker 3 (25:51):
I served you for seven years for Rachel. That was
our agreement. Why have you deceived me?
Speaker 4 (25:58):
Come now, Jacob Kinsman. You know our customs. It's not
tradition to have your youngest daughter married before your eldest.
Speaker 3 (26:07):
So you chose deception instead of negotiation.
Speaker 4 (26:11):
Jacob, Jacob, you know better. I knew you wouldn't take
Lea for a bride price of seven years. I did
what I had to do. This way I get to
marry off my eldest daughter, and you work my fields
for far more years than she's worth. It's a win win. Well,
(26:33):
by that, of course, I mean that I win twice.
Speaker 1 (26:36):
Love and gave Jacob a certain look that sent shiffers
down his spine. It was the look of a serpent
behind his large, jolly Vanier was a cunning and calculating mind.
He may have looked like Esau, but he was more
like Jacob, a trickster. Jacob sobered immediately he understood who
(26:58):
he was dealing with. Now they were cut from the
same cloth. The trickster had been tricked. Jacob was angry,
but he couldn't avoid the irony. Jacob responded with a
calm and calculated look.
Speaker 3 (27:12):
You've bested me, Laban. You're surely a shrewd man. I
should have known, since you and my mother, Rebecca are
from the same line. She has a sharp mind as well.
Speaker 1 (27:25):
Flattery was how Jacob would get what he needed from Larban.
The poor man had awakened something in Jacob. Larban wasn't
the only servant in the reeds.
Speaker 3 (27:35):
I will work seven more years for Rachel. That was
the bride price we agreed upon. In seven years, I
expect to have her. There aren't any other secret daughters
I should be aware of.
Speaker 8 (27:48):
Ah.
Speaker 4 (27:48):
You are a good sport. You have yourself a deal.
Speaker 1 (27:52):
Jacob bowed his head and walked back to his tent.
Rachel was waiting nearby, eyes red from a night of tears.
Speaker 8 (28:00):
I swear, Jacob, I had no choice.
Speaker 3 (28:03):
It's going to be all right. In seven years, you'll
be mine and I'll be yours.
Speaker 8 (28:09):
But what about Leah?
Speaker 3 (28:10):
What about her? My grandfather had two wives. Why can't I?
Speaker 8 (28:15):
I'm worried that.
Speaker 3 (28:17):
Well, you are the one I love, Rachel. I will
have you as my wife, and when the time is right,
Laybad will know who he's slighted.
Speaker 1 (28:27):
Jacob placed a gentle hand on her chin and kissed
her forehead. Leah was watching intently from the distance. He
walked over to his tent and paused. He gave Leah
an indifferent look, then passed her to enter his tent.
For seven years, Jacob labored, and once the time had passed,
he was finally able to marry Rachel. The night of
(28:50):
their wedding, Jacob was completely sober, eyes clear, and heart
fluttering with love. They sealed their promise that night with passion,
under beneath the stars. To Jacob, it was well worth
the fourteen years. Yet something was hiding in the margins
between love and longing. Lea's love for Jacob, Jacob's love
(29:13):
for Rachel, Lea's contempt for Rachel, and Laban's love of
control were all brewing. Like the Eastern, Western, Southern, and
Northern winds. They were doomed to collide, causing a storm
of epic proportions. This prey Dog comproduction is only made
(29:39):
possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Katina,
Max Bard, Zach Shellabager and Ben Gammon are the executive
producers of The Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltefianu. Characters
are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan,
Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Za Parado, Thomas Copeland, Junior, Rosanna Pilcher,
(30:03):
and Mitch Leshinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by
Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie and Chris baig. You can hear
more Prey dot com productions on the Prey dot Com app,
available on the Apple App Store and Google play Store.
If you enjoyed the Chosen People, please rate and leave
a review.
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