November 26, 2025 • 27 mins
# 38 - Rachel & Leah: Sisters at War - In this episode of The Chosen People, the intense rivalry between Leah and Rachel over Jacob’s affection reaches new heights as love, jealousy, and competition collide. This episode explores how their struggle for children and validation drives their actions, revealing deep human desires and divine interventions that shape the birth of Israel's tribes.
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Episode 38 of The Chosen People is inspired by the Book of Genesis.
Today's opening prayer is inspired by Romans 12:18, “If it is possible, as much as it is up to you, be at peace with all men.”
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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.
Speaker 2 (00:04):
Lord Layman, it would be a great act of mercy
if you'd give me sanctuary here for a while as
my mother's kinsman. What's this, lord nonsense?
Speaker 3 (00:15):
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 (00:25):
Jacob turned his gaze back at Rachel. She glanced back,
wondering why he was looking at her. A smile curled
on the edges of Jacob's face. He turned to Larbon
with a glint in his eye.
Speaker 2 (00:39):
I'll serve you for seven more years. That should be
more than enough for your youngest daughter, Rachel's, and in marriage.
One thing that certain, dear Rachel, is that I do
love him, And seven years of labor for your hand
will seem like mere moments as long as I get
to see you every day. Leah, what are you doing here?
Speaker 4 (01:01):
I was with you last night, Jacob. Don't you remember?
Speaker 3 (01:05):
What?
Speaker 4 (01:05):
No? What?
Speaker 5 (01:07):
No?
Speaker 2 (01:07):
How's it possible? How was supposed to be with Rachel? I?
How did you?
Speaker 4 (01:12):
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 a treacherous night.
Speaker 2 (01:24):
They've been treats me.
Speaker 6 (01:27):
I swear, Jacob.
Speaker 3 (01:28):
I had no choice, Jacob, Jacob, you know better. I
knew you wouldn't take Leah for a bride price of
seven years. I did what I had to do. This way,
I got to marry off my eldest daughter, and you
worked my fields for far more years than she's. It's
(01:51):
a win win Well by that, of course, I mean
that I win twice.
Speaker 1 (01:58):
They sealed their promise that night, passion underneath the stars.
To Jacob, it was well worth the fourteen years. Yet
something was hiding in the margins between love and longing.
Leah's love for Jacob, Jacob's love for Rachel, Leah's contempt
for Rachel, and Lavin's love of control were all brewing.
(02:21):
Like the East and Western, southern and northern winds, they
were doomed to collide, causing a storm of epic proportions.
Speaker 4 (02:36):
He's exactly like this.
Speaker 6 (02:38):
Well.
Speaker 1 (02:38):
Leah was at the shepherd's well, venting to Zilpah. While
drawing out water, she gestured to the large stone that
sealed the top shut.
Speaker 4 (02:47):
Jacob opens his heart for Rachel, but when I tried
to connect with him, he's sealed shut. It's not fair.
He was mine first by right.
Speaker 1 (02:57):
Zilpah, her loyal servant, friend and civil placed a tender
hand on Leah's shoulder, her expression one of sympathy and understanding.
Speaker 6 (03:07):
Perhaps when you bear him children, he'll begin to love
you earnestly, Mistress. Give a man a son, and he'll
treasure you forever.
Speaker 4 (03:15):
We've lain together enough times to make me concerned. I
can't conceive.
Speaker 6 (03:19):
Perhaps you may pray to the gods for favor.
Speaker 4 (03:22):
No, they are not my gods. My god is the
god of his forefathers Now, Jacob told us how his
father was conceived to a woman far beyond her child
bearing years. He can open up wombs. I shall pray
to him and pour out my longing.
Speaker 1 (03:39):
Leah prayed to the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
She asked that he would see her ply and respond
with the child. That night, she entered Jacob's tent while
he was alone. It was rare, since Rachel was usually
with him in the late hours. She made love to him,
although Jacob did not her. Their union was sad and
(04:00):
unrequited one. Leah longed for him, pining for a simple
glance of affection in her direction. Still wounded by the
tricks played on him, Jacob tolerated Leah long enough to
fulfill his husbandly duties and give her a child. When
they were through, they lay beside each other in silence.
Leah wanted to roll over and hold him. She longed
(04:23):
for the simplest touch of genuine affection. Jacob refused, Could
you leave my tent now? I have to wake up
before sunrise tomorrow and bring the flocks to the shearers.
Speaker 4 (04:37):
You'd send me away so late I could sleep beside
you and help you prepare early in the morning.
Speaker 2 (04:43):
No, they won't be necessary.
Speaker 1 (04:45):
Please leave now, Leah laughed quietly, her heart heavy with sorrow.
Jacob turned away, burying his face in his blanket, consumed
by a maelstrom of and anger. Guilt for not loving Lea,
and anger at the trickery that had bound him to her.
(05:08):
The favor of the Lord shone upon Lea, and her
womb quickened with life. The discomfort of pregnancy was a
small price to pay for the joy of bearing Jacob's child.
She sat opposite Jacob, her hands lovingly cradling her belly.
Speaker 4 (05:26):
Jacob, do you think it will be a boy or
a girl?
Speaker 2 (05:30):
Layband tells me A man always hopes for a son,
but would not love his daughter any less. I think
that's how I feel.
Speaker 1 (05:38):
Leah's cheeks flexed with a smile, and her forehead became
like a rose. But Rachel, seated nearby, wore a mask
of somber, longing. She had yet to conceive, and the
weight of her worry grew with each passing day.
Speaker 4 (05:54):
I know it's a boy. God most High has nearly
confirmed it. He will be the heir to Abraham's promise.
Speaker 6 (06:02):
We'll see about that. What do you mean, Rachel, I
mean we shall see. Jacob's family has an untraditional history.
His father, Isaac, was the second born. Jacob himself was
the second born as well. You'd know these if you
were closer to him.
Speaker 1 (06:19):
Leah's eyes fell, shame washing over her. She rose and left,
feeling Rachel's jealous gaze burning into her back. In due time,
Leah gave birth to a son. She cradled him tenderly,
marveling at his dark hair and sturdy frame. To Leah,
(06:41):
he was perfect.
Speaker 4 (06:43):
His name shall be Reuben, which means behold a son.
Because God has looked at my affliction. He's seen me
and answered my prayers. Now I get to present Jacob
with a son. He will be in aweing of devotion.
Now my husband will love me.
Speaker 1 (07:06):
But Jacob's heart remained distant. Though he loved his son Reuben,
he paid Leah little heed. Most of his time was
spent with Rachel under the sycamore tree, whispering secrets and
sharing laughter. Leah watched from afar, her heart aching for
a love that remained just out of reach. She turned
(07:27):
to Zilpah, her ever devoted servant, sister and friend.
Speaker 4 (07:30):
She still hasn't given him a child. Perhaps he'll see
my value if I conceive again, and the gap between
us will close.
Speaker 1 (07:38):
Leah waited until the sunset. Rachel left for her tent,
and Jacob returned alone to his Leah whispered to God
an earnest and longing prayer.
Speaker 4 (07:49):
Please grant me another son. Hear me, God of Jacob.
Speaker 1 (07:55):
Hear me once more. Leah called upon Jacob to fullfill
his duties. Despite his coldness, Leah clung to the hope
that another child might bridge the chasm between them. They
conceived again, and months later Leah bore a second son.
Speaker 2 (08:13):
What is his name?
Speaker 4 (08:15):
His name is Simeon. Because God has heard that I
am hated, he has given me a gift of pity.
Speaker 2 (08:22):
You are not hated, Leah, just not loved.
Speaker 1 (08:26):
Ah.
Speaker 2 (08:27):
I'm grateful of the sons you've given me. That is
what I'll say.
Speaker 1 (08:32):
Leah's pain and longing lingered each day, the tension between
her and Rachel thickened. Rachel made a point to hold
Jacob closer when they walked together, tightening her grip around
his arm when they passed. Rachel consumed more of his
time in the evenings, blocking access to him later in
the night. If Leah wanted time with Jacob, she had
(08:54):
to be an opportunist like her father. When Rachel left
Jacob's tent and returned to hers in the morning, Leah
snuck in. Jacob laid on the bed, sprawled out in
heavy slumber. Leah ran her hands over his chest and
kissed his neck. In a dream Like days, Jacob embraced her.
(09:14):
Leah felt tinges of guilt, but pushed them away. She
was locked in Jacob's embrace and received another seed to
grow a child another son. Leah entered the dining hall
with her third son wrapped around her chest. Rachel was
sitting with her servant, Billa. Rachel's jaw clenched with anger
(09:36):
when she saw the child.
Speaker 6 (09:38):
What sad name have you given this one, Leah? Is
his name miskenneim pathetic?
Speaker 4 (09:44):
No, his name is Levi joined because this third son
will finally attach Jacob to me. Our hearts and fates
will be bound with these three sons. You know it's true,
and that's why you've been so nasty to me. I've
been nasty to you because you stole my husband from me.
He wanted to marry me. You and father tricked him.
(10:07):
I bet every time he sees you beside him in
his bed, he just sees Laban. That's why he spends
most nights with me. You're just bitter and jealous, Rachel,
jealous of you.
Speaker 6 (10:22):
That's laughable, Leah.
Speaker 1 (10:25):
Rachel stood up and began walking out. Before leaving, she
leaned into her sister's ear.
Speaker 6 (10:32):
You may have the sons, but I have the love
of our husband. You can't buy that with more children.
Speaker 1 (10:41):
Leah's body tensed with grief. She looked at little Levi
curled up against her chest. She heard Reuben and Simeon
playing tag outside. Three sons, all gifts given to her
by God. Perhaps she had been obsessing over the wrong
thing all this time. Maybe these children were gifts given
(11:02):
to her instead of bargaining chips for her husband's affection.
Months went by and Leah was able to conceive another child.
She labored for hours, with Zilpah close by. This child
was her most painful labor. Love for the child fueled
her resolve as she pushed late into the night. Finally, thankfully,
(11:24):
the child arrived. Leah held the babe with trembling arms.
Tears and sweat soaked her garments. Her chin quivered as
she placed a finger on the child's nose.
Speaker 4 (11:35):
I will name you Judah. Praise this time. I will
praise God. I will praise God for you, little one
and all your brothers. You are a gift and a treasure.
Speaker 1 (11:50):
Leah pressed Judah against her chest and wept tears of
joy mingling with sorrow. Jacob entered the tent, his expression weary.
Leah smiled at him, a warm, contented grin that asked
for nothing in return. She placed Judah in Jacob's arms.
Speaker 2 (12:08):
Ah, Judah, now there's a name. What will become of you?
Sweet child? Who will you become?
Speaker 1 (12:17):
Rachel was listening from the other side of the canvas
when she heard Jacob's tender whispers towards his son. Her
heart sank.
Speaker 6 (12:27):
Ah, will I ever be able to give him a son?
Speaker 1 (12:34):
Jacob returned to his tent, weary from a day of
hard work and a night of waiting for Lea to
give birth. He finally lay down, ready to slip blissfully
to sleep. However, his peace was interrupted by heavy footsteps
approaching his tent. Rachel burst in and grabbed Jacob by
the tunic. She kissed him violently and pressed against him aggressively.
(12:57):
Jacob grabbed her shoulders to stop her.
Speaker 2 (13:00):
What on earth are you doing?
Speaker 6 (13:03):
Give me children now?
Speaker 1 (13:05):
She leaned in again with anger and aggression.
Speaker 2 (13:08):
It's not up to me, Rachel. Get off. You're not
in your right mind.
Speaker 6 (13:14):
Ah. Are you calling me mad? Jacob? Are you calling
me a mad woman?
Speaker 2 (13:22):
That's not what I said. Don't put words in my mouth.
Speaker 6 (13:26):
Give me a child, Jacob, Give me a child, or
I will die.
Speaker 2 (13:31):
Am I in the place of God? He's withheld the
fruit of the womb from you, not me. You're coming
to a sheep for eggs. I'm not in control of
whether you can conceive or not.
Speaker 1 (13:42):
Rachel threw her fists against Jacob's chest and jumped off him.
She paced back and forth, vibrating with jealousy and anger.
Speaker 6 (13:50):
Ah, what good am I if I can't give you
a child? How soon before you leave my side and
find yourself to Leah? She's the one who's given you.
Speaker 5 (14:01):
Sons, Rachel, my love is for you and you alone.
You know this, yes, But for how long?
Speaker 6 (14:11):
Jacob? How will we measure up when I am old
and baron and Leah has given you a hundred sons?
Speaker 1 (14:19):
Jacob was silent, shifting his eyes down and to the side.
Rachel's upper lip curled upward into a snarl. She was
a shepherdess, not a prophetess. But she could see the future.
In that moment, she could see Jacob and Leah side
by side, advancing the call of Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, and Rebecca.
Speaker 6 (14:40):
I won't lose you and my status to Leah, I refuse.
Speaker 2 (14:46):
What are we supposed to do? Rachel? I can't make
you fertile any more than I can make the sunrise.
Speaker 6 (14:53):
No, but there are other ways for me to give
you children. Marry my half sister and me servant bill Ha.
She can have children on my behalf.
Speaker 1 (15:03):
Jacob froze and peered at Rachel for a long while.
Speaker 6 (15:08):
Is is this a trap, No, Jacob, this is a
way for me to seize control. Bill Ha is still young.
She can give you more children on my behalf. We
will exercise the ritual of fertility. I will stand over
her when she gives birth, so that I too may
(15:29):
become fertile. This way, you have a son in my honor,
and my womb may be opened.
Speaker 1 (15:38):
Jacob knew about his grandfather's history. He knew about haga
Ishmael and the ensuing chaos after Abraham had taken a
second wife. Yet for all this knowledge, Jacob couldn't see
the trap door to chaos right before him. With the
same clueless carnal decision making as Abraham.
Speaker 2 (15:57):
Jacob agreed, Ah, very well, send bill Halen. The two
of us will be bound in covenant, and she will
give me sons on your behalf.
Speaker 4 (16:08):
Bill Ha, Yes, my lady.
Speaker 6 (16:10):
We have discussed this matter already. You will bear Jacob's
sons on my behalf between the two of us. We
will catch up to Leah as you say, my lady,
don't be so uptight now.
Speaker 1 (16:24):
Billah was brought to Jacob's side. Together, they consummated a
marriage and bound her future children to Rachel's. It was
an awkward and unsavory event. Rachel, warring with her own
self worth, shared her husband with yet another Billah, conceived
and bore a son. Rachel, in accordance with the rituals
(16:46):
of the time, stood over her in an attempt to
open up her wound. It was a vain attempt.
Speaker 4 (16:52):
What should his name be, my lady, his.
Speaker 6 (16:55):
Name will be Dan, for God has heard my voice
and judged rightly that I should have a son.
Speaker 1 (17:03):
Jacob's growing family was marked with tension. Rachel and Leah,
bound by blood and marriage, were forced to live in
close proximity to each other, but their hatred boiled even
deeper towards each other since Billa entered the fray.
Speaker 6 (17:20):
Oh isn't damn precious He's going to be a strong boy.
Speaker 1 (17:26):
Rachel swooned over Billa's child loudly and in front of Lea.
Speaker 4 (17:31):
Yes, Bila must be happy to have such a healthy child.
Speaker 6 (17:35):
He's mine by right too, You know.
Speaker 4 (17:37):
Sure, Rachel, whatever brings you comfort.
Speaker 1 (17:40):
That night, Rachel gave Billa to Jacob again out of spite.
Jacob was once again thrust into the middle of a
war between sisters. In the moment, he enjoyed playing his part,
but with each child born to him, things only seemed
to get worse. Billa conceived and bore another son. Rachel
(18:02):
laughed at the sight of him. She had a competitive
fire in her against Leah.
Speaker 6 (18:07):
His name shall be neft Tully. With mighty wrestling, I
have struggled and warned with my sister and seized a victory.
Speaker 1 (18:18):
Leah paced back and forth, bouncing Judah on her hip.
Zilpah was close by, weaving a basket for Reuben to
take down to the stream for catching toads.
Speaker 4 (18:29):
Rachel so smug about these new children. The one thing
I had over her was that I could bear children.
But of course, clever, smart and talented Rachel finds a way.
It's just like our childhood.
Speaker 6 (18:41):
Bill Ha seems happy with the children I met, les
glad she gets that joy.
Speaker 4 (18:48):
Don't take their side. Yes, my lady, I've tried many
times to conceive another child, but I'm afraid I've dried
up or something. At this rate, Rachel and Bila will
catch up. And who's to say say Rachel won't end
up having children off her own.
Speaker 6 (19:03):
I think Jacob is content with having five healthy sons.
My lady, do we need to press this further?
Speaker 4 (19:11):
You don't understand. This isn't about Jacob anymore. This is
about me and Rachel. This is about who will sit
as the matriarch of this family. This is about dominance Zilpah,
this is about whose name will be etched next to
Jacob's in history.
Speaker 6 (19:29):
Then what do we do, my lady. We can't open
your womb to receive more children anymore than we can
close bill has.
Speaker 4 (19:37):
Rachel has changed the rules of the game. We'll play
by her rules. You'll marry Jacob as well and have
children on my behalf.
Speaker 6 (19:46):
It would be an honor, my lady. Are you sure
it must be done?
Speaker 1 (19:53):
Leah gave Zilpah to Jacob. Another pawn in the wall
between Lea and Rachel spoke Truly, it was no longer
about love gained and love kept between Jacob and his wives.
It had become a battle of dominance. The sons of
Jacob were born from petty squabbles of favoritism and vice
(20:14):
for power. Zilpah bore two sons, Gad which means good fortune,
and Asher, which means happy. They represented Lea's abundance and
the growing confidence she had as a woman of prominence
in Jacob's household. The heat of summer gave way to
the chilly bite of four. The morning dew grew frosted
(20:36):
and the wheat crops were fresh and ready for harvest.
Leah knew this was the perfect time to dig for mandreks,
often called love apples, they were well known to affect fertility.
Leah sent Reuben out to dig for mandregs. His hands
bore through the cold earth, digging up as many roots
as possible. When Rachel approached, he was carrying them back
(20:59):
to his mother in a bar.
Speaker 6 (21:00):
Ask it you there, boy, Come here? What do you
have there?
Speaker 3 (21:05):
Man drakes for my mother?
Speaker 6 (21:07):
Give some to me.
Speaker 5 (21:09):
I don't think I should.
Speaker 6 (21:14):
Come now. I'm your dear aunt. Give me some of
your man drakes.
Speaker 4 (21:19):
Stop harassing my son.
Speaker 1 (21:21):
Leah approached with the tenacity of a mother.
Speaker 6 (21:24):
Bear, give me some of your son's mandrakes.
Speaker 4 (21:28):
Huh, Not only have you taken my husband away from me,
But now you want my son's mandrakes.
Speaker 6 (21:34):
Enough of that nonsense about me stealing your husband. It's childish. Besides,
I need those mandrakes more than you do.
Speaker 4 (21:42):
Yet they're mine to give or keep as I please. Come, Reuben, I'll.
Speaker 6 (21:48):
I'll let you lie with Jacob if you give me
those mandrakes.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
Leah's ear is perked up. Jacob had been denying Leah
ever since she stopped bearing him children. An arrogant smile
flashed across Rachel's face. Leah claimed that Jacob was her husband,
yet here Rachel was a gatekeeper for his bed. She
had the real power. Leah's mind went back to the
(22:14):
beginning of this mess, when she was but a girl.
Desperate for Jacob's affection. She longed to be close to
him again. She drew a deep breath, nodded to Reuben,
and said, give.
Speaker 4 (22:27):
Her the mandrakes.
Speaker 6 (22:30):
You say I stole your husband, fine, but he's mine
to give now, don't forget it.
Speaker 1 (22:38):
Through the agreement struck with roots, Leah conceived two more sons,
his Herkhah and Zebulen. She also bore him a daughter, Dinah.
Speaker 4 (22:49):
God has given me what's fair since I've been generous.
Now my husband has no choice but to honor me,
since I've given him six sons and a daughter.
Speaker 1 (23:00):
Even so, after years of struggle and turmoil, God saw
fit to open Rachel's womb. She and Jacob conceived out
of love, and thus the grand spiral of love, favoritism,
and hatred continued. The grassy plains of Canaan were glowing
under the radiance of the stars. The heavens stretched out,
(23:24):
bending like a bow across the wilds. Each star was
a twinkling witness to Rachel's struggle. Her labored breaths rose
with the fire warming her tent.
Speaker 6 (23:35):
Ah, I can't do this. I'm not strong enough. I
never imagined this was possible. I thought God had forgotten me.
Ah ah ah, what's taking so long?
Speaker 2 (23:57):
What's wrong?
Speaker 1 (23:58):
Jacob was outside, forming a circle in the dirt with
his constant pacing. Rachel lay there, looking up at the
canvas above. Sweat beat down her brow and back. Jacob
ran close to the canvas wall and placed his face
beside it.
Speaker 2 (24:17):
I'm here, my love.
Speaker 1 (24:20):
Rachel closed her eyes and smiled. Having Jacob close helped
She had longed to give him a child since the
first time they met. Now, after nearly a lifetime together,
here she was only moments away from her dream. She
propped her head up and nodded to the midwife. She
curled forward and pushed with all her might. He was coming.
(24:43):
She did it again with a high scream. Closer a
third time, she clenched her fists and pushed. Her screams
were suddenly replaced by the soft cries of a newborn child,
a son, A pined after pressure miracle. The minute Jacob
heard those cries from the other side of the tent,
(25:05):
he ran in. His son cried in rachel arms. He
was the most beautiful thing Jacob had ever seen. Finally
he had a child born from love. All other blessings
in his life seemed to fade into the background as
he gazed upon his miracle child. He held him in
his arms, His beaming smile revealed his old and cracked face.
Speaker 2 (25:30):
My son, My son, I shall name you Joseph.
Speaker 1 (25:35):
He kissed his son's cheek and laid him in the
arms of his mother. Out of all of his brothers,
Joseph carried the favor of his father. The boy would
grow up under the attentive wing of his parents and
increase in knowledge, skill and pride. Great would be his
rise in his family, and great would be his fall.
(25:58):
Jacob expanded his lineage larger than his forefathers could ever imagine,
eleven sons to bear the promise given to Abraham and Isaac.
Yet the house of Jacob had a foundation built on pettiness, favoritism,
and jealousy. Jacob did nothing to thwart the coiling weeds
of discord choking out the life of his wives and children.
(26:26):
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Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltefianu. Characters are voiced by
Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwold,
(26:49):
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Music by Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvatore Rosie
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(27:09):
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Previously on the Chosen People.
Speaker 2 (00:04):
Lord Layman, it would be a great act of mercy
if you'd give me sanctuary here for a while as
my mother's kinsman. What's this, lord nonsense?
Speaker 3 (00:15):
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 (00:25):
Jacob turned his gaze back at Rachel. She glanced back,
wondering why he was looking at her. A smile curled
on the edges of Jacob's face. He turned to Larbon
with a glint in his eye.
Speaker 2 (00:39):
I'll serve you for seven more years. That should be
more than enough for your youngest daughter, Rachel's, and in marriage.
One thing that certain, dear Rachel, is that I do
love him, And seven years of labor for your hand
will seem like mere moments as long as I get
to see you every day. Leah, what are you doing here?
Speaker 4 (01:01):
I was with you last night, Jacob. Don't you remember?
Speaker 3 (01:05):
What?
Speaker 4 (01:05):
No? What?
Speaker 5 (01:07):
No?
Speaker 2 (01:07):
How's it possible? How was supposed to be with Rachel? I?
How did you?
Speaker 4 (01:12):
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 a treacherous night.
Speaker 2 (01:24):
They've been treats me.
Speaker 6 (01:27):
I swear, Jacob.
Speaker 3 (01:28):
I had no choice, Jacob, Jacob, you know better. I
knew you wouldn't take Leah for a bride price of
seven years. I did what I had to do. This way,
I got to marry off my eldest daughter, and you
worked my fields for far more years than she's. It's
(01:51):
a win win Well by that, of course, I mean
that I win twice.
Speaker 1 (01:58):
They sealed their promise that night, passion underneath the stars.
To Jacob, it was well worth the fourteen years. Yet
something was hiding in the margins between love and longing.
Leah's love for Jacob, Jacob's love for Rachel, Leah's contempt
for Rachel, and Lavin's love of control were all brewing.
(02:21):
Like the East and Western, southern and northern winds, they
were doomed to collide, causing a storm of epic proportions.
Speaker 4 (02:36):
He's exactly like this.
Speaker 6 (02:38):
Well.
Speaker 1 (02:38):
Leah was at the shepherd's well, venting to Zilpah. While
drawing out water, she gestured to the large stone that
sealed the top shut.
Speaker 4 (02:47):
Jacob opens his heart for Rachel, but when I tried
to connect with him, he's sealed shut. It's not fair.
He was mine first by right.
Speaker 1 (02:57):
Zilpah, her loyal servant, friend and civil placed a tender
hand on Leah's shoulder, her expression one of sympathy and understanding.
Speaker 6 (03:07):
Perhaps when you bear him children, he'll begin to love
you earnestly, Mistress. Give a man a son, and he'll
treasure you forever.
Speaker 4 (03:15):
We've lain together enough times to make me concerned. I
can't conceive.
Speaker 6 (03:19):
Perhaps you may pray to the gods for favor.
Speaker 4 (03:22):
No, they are not my gods. My god is the
god of his forefathers Now, Jacob told us how his
father was conceived to a woman far beyond her child
bearing years. He can open up wombs. I shall pray
to him and pour out my longing.
Speaker 1 (03:39):
Leah prayed to the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
She asked that he would see her ply and respond
with the child. That night, she entered Jacob's tent while
he was alone. It was rare, since Rachel was usually
with him in the late hours. She made love to him,
although Jacob did not her. Their union was sad and
(04:00):
unrequited one. Leah longed for him, pining for a simple
glance of affection in her direction. Still wounded by the
tricks played on him, Jacob tolerated Leah long enough to
fulfill his husbandly duties and give her a child. When
they were through, they lay beside each other in silence.
Leah wanted to roll over and hold him. She longed
(04:23):
for the simplest touch of genuine affection. Jacob refused, Could
you leave my tent now? I have to wake up
before sunrise tomorrow and bring the flocks to the shearers.
Speaker 4 (04:37):
You'd send me away so late I could sleep beside
you and help you prepare early in the morning.
Speaker 2 (04:43):
No, they won't be necessary.
Speaker 1 (04:45):
Please leave now, Leah laughed quietly, her heart heavy with sorrow.
Jacob turned away, burying his face in his blanket, consumed
by a maelstrom of and anger. Guilt for not loving Lea,
and anger at the trickery that had bound him to her.
(05:08):
The favor of the Lord shone upon Lea, and her
womb quickened with life. The discomfort of pregnancy was a
small price to pay for the joy of bearing Jacob's child.
She sat opposite Jacob, her hands lovingly cradling her belly.
Speaker 4 (05:26):
Jacob, do you think it will be a boy or
a girl?
Speaker 2 (05:30):
Layband tells me A man always hopes for a son,
but would not love his daughter any less. I think
that's how I feel.
Speaker 1 (05:38):
Leah's cheeks flexed with a smile, and her forehead became
like a rose. But Rachel, seated nearby, wore a mask
of somber, longing. She had yet to conceive, and the
weight of her worry grew with each passing day.
Speaker 4 (05:54):
I know it's a boy. God most High has nearly
confirmed it. He will be the heir to Abraham's promise.
Speaker 6 (06:02):
We'll see about that. What do you mean, Rachel, I
mean we shall see. Jacob's family has an untraditional history.
His father, Isaac, was the second born. Jacob himself was
the second born as well. You'd know these if you
were closer to him.
Speaker 1 (06:19):
Leah's eyes fell, shame washing over her. She rose and left,
feeling Rachel's jealous gaze burning into her back. In due time,
Leah gave birth to a son. She cradled him tenderly,
marveling at his dark hair and sturdy frame. To Leah,
(06:41):
he was perfect.
Speaker 4 (06:43):
His name shall be Reuben, which means behold a son.
Because God has looked at my affliction. He's seen me
and answered my prayers. Now I get to present Jacob
with a son. He will be in aweing of devotion.
Now my husband will love me.
Speaker 1 (07:06):
But Jacob's heart remained distant. Though he loved his son Reuben,
he paid Leah little heed. Most of his time was
spent with Rachel under the sycamore tree, whispering secrets and
sharing laughter. Leah watched from afar, her heart aching for
a love that remained just out of reach. She turned
(07:27):
to Zilpah, her ever devoted servant, sister and friend.
Speaker 4 (07:30):
She still hasn't given him a child. Perhaps he'll see
my value if I conceive again, and the gap between
us will close.
Speaker 1 (07:38):
Leah waited until the sunset. Rachel left for her tent,
and Jacob returned alone to his Leah whispered to God
an earnest and longing prayer.
Speaker 4 (07:49):
Please grant me another son. Hear me, God of Jacob.
Speaker 1 (07:55):
Hear me once more. Leah called upon Jacob to fullfill
his duties. Despite his coldness, Leah clung to the hope
that another child might bridge the chasm between them. They
conceived again, and months later Leah bore a second son.
Speaker 2 (08:13):
What is his name?
Speaker 4 (08:15):
His name is Simeon. Because God has heard that I
am hated, he has given me a gift of pity.
Speaker 2 (08:22):
You are not hated, Leah, just not loved.
Speaker 1 (08:26):
Ah.
Speaker 2 (08:27):
I'm grateful of the sons you've given me. That is
what I'll say.
Speaker 1 (08:32):
Leah's pain and longing lingered each day, the tension between
her and Rachel thickened. Rachel made a point to hold
Jacob closer when they walked together, tightening her grip around
his arm when they passed. Rachel consumed more of his
time in the evenings, blocking access to him later in
the night. If Leah wanted time with Jacob, she had
(08:54):
to be an opportunist like her father. When Rachel left
Jacob's tent and returned to hers in the morning, Leah
snuck in. Jacob laid on the bed, sprawled out in
heavy slumber. Leah ran her hands over his chest and
kissed his neck. In a dream Like days, Jacob embraced her.
(09:14):
Leah felt tinges of guilt, but pushed them away. She
was locked in Jacob's embrace and received another seed to
grow a child another son. Leah entered the dining hall
with her third son wrapped around her chest. Rachel was
sitting with her servant, Billa. Rachel's jaw clenched with anger
(09:36):
when she saw the child.
Speaker 6 (09:38):
What sad name have you given this one, Leah? Is
his name miskenneim pathetic?
Speaker 4 (09:44):
No, his name is Levi joined because this third son
will finally attach Jacob to me. Our hearts and fates
will be bound with these three sons. You know it's true,
and that's why you've been so nasty to me. I've
been nasty to you because you stole my husband from me.
He wanted to marry me. You and father tricked him.
(10:07):
I bet every time he sees you beside him in
his bed, he just sees Laban. That's why he spends
most nights with me. You're just bitter and jealous, Rachel,
jealous of you.
Speaker 6 (10:22):
That's laughable, Leah.
Speaker 1 (10:25):
Rachel stood up and began walking out. Before leaving, she
leaned into her sister's ear.
Speaker 6 (10:32):
You may have the sons, but I have the love
of our husband. You can't buy that with more children.
Speaker 1 (10:41):
Leah's body tensed with grief. She looked at little Levi
curled up against her chest. She heard Reuben and Simeon
playing tag outside. Three sons, all gifts given to her
by God. Perhaps she had been obsessing over the wrong
thing all this time. Maybe these children were gifts given
(11:02):
to her instead of bargaining chips for her husband's affection.
Months went by and Leah was able to conceive another child.
She labored for hours, with Zilpah close by. This child
was her most painful labor. Love for the child fueled
her resolve as she pushed late into the night. Finally, thankfully,
(11:24):
the child arrived. Leah held the babe with trembling arms.
Tears and sweat soaked her garments. Her chin quivered as
she placed a finger on the child's nose.
Speaker 4 (11:35):
I will name you Judah. Praise this time. I will
praise God. I will praise God for you, little one
and all your brothers. You are a gift and a treasure.
Speaker 1 (11:50):
Leah pressed Judah against her chest and wept tears of
joy mingling with sorrow. Jacob entered the tent, his expression weary.
Leah smiled at him, a warm, contented grin that asked
for nothing in return. She placed Judah in Jacob's arms.
Speaker 2 (12:08):
Ah, Judah, now there's a name. What will become of you?
Sweet child? Who will you become?
Speaker 1 (12:17):
Rachel was listening from the other side of the canvas
when she heard Jacob's tender whispers towards his son. Her
heart sank.
Speaker 6 (12:27):
Ah, will I ever be able to give him a son?
Speaker 1 (12:34):
Jacob returned to his tent, weary from a day of
hard work and a night of waiting for Lea to
give birth. He finally lay down, ready to slip blissfully
to sleep. However, his peace was interrupted by heavy footsteps
approaching his tent. Rachel burst in and grabbed Jacob by
the tunic. She kissed him violently and pressed against him aggressively.
(12:57):
Jacob grabbed her shoulders to stop her.
Speaker 2 (13:00):
What on earth are you doing?
Speaker 6 (13:03):
Give me children now?
Speaker 1 (13:05):
She leaned in again with anger and aggression.
Speaker 2 (13:08):
It's not up to me, Rachel. Get off. You're not
in your right mind.
Speaker 6 (13:14):
Ah. Are you calling me mad? Jacob? Are you calling
me a mad woman?
Speaker 2 (13:22):
That's not what I said. Don't put words in my mouth.
Speaker 6 (13:26):
Give me a child, Jacob, Give me a child, or
I will die.
Speaker 2 (13:31):
Am I in the place of God? He's withheld the
fruit of the womb from you, not me. You're coming
to a sheep for eggs. I'm not in control of
whether you can conceive or not.
Speaker 1 (13:42):
Rachel threw her fists against Jacob's chest and jumped off him.
She paced back and forth, vibrating with jealousy and anger.
Speaker 6 (13:50):
Ah, what good am I if I can't give you
a child? How soon before you leave my side and
find yourself to Leah? She's the one who's given you.
Speaker 5 (14:01):
Sons, Rachel, my love is for you and you alone.
You know this, yes, But for how long?
Speaker 6 (14:11):
Jacob? How will we measure up when I am old
and baron and Leah has given you a hundred sons?
Speaker 1 (14:19):
Jacob was silent, shifting his eyes down and to the side.
Rachel's upper lip curled upward into a snarl. She was
a shepherdess, not a prophetess. But she could see the future.
In that moment, she could see Jacob and Leah side
by side, advancing the call of Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, and Rebecca.
Speaker 6 (14:40):
I won't lose you and my status to Leah, I refuse.
Speaker 2 (14:46):
What are we supposed to do? Rachel? I can't make
you fertile any more than I can make the sunrise.
Speaker 6 (14:53):
No, but there are other ways for me to give
you children. Marry my half sister and me servant bill Ha.
She can have children on my behalf.
Speaker 1 (15:03):
Jacob froze and peered at Rachel for a long while.
Speaker 6 (15:08):
Is is this a trap, No, Jacob, this is a
way for me to seize control. Bill Ha is still young.
She can give you more children on my behalf. We
will exercise the ritual of fertility. I will stand over
her when she gives birth, so that I too may
(15:29):
become fertile. This way, you have a son in my honor,
and my womb may be opened.
Speaker 1 (15:38):
Jacob knew about his grandfather's history. He knew about haga
Ishmael and the ensuing chaos after Abraham had taken a
second wife. Yet for all this knowledge, Jacob couldn't see
the trap door to chaos right before him. With the
same clueless carnal decision making as Abraham.
Speaker 2 (15:57):
Jacob agreed, Ah, very well, send bill Halen. The two
of us will be bound in covenant, and she will
give me sons on your behalf.
Speaker 4 (16:08):
Bill Ha, Yes, my lady.
Speaker 6 (16:10):
We have discussed this matter already. You will bear Jacob's
sons on my behalf between the two of us. We
will catch up to Leah as you say, my lady,
don't be so uptight now.
Speaker 1 (16:24):
Billah was brought to Jacob's side. Together, they consummated a
marriage and bound her future children to Rachel's. It was
an awkward and unsavory event. Rachel, warring with her own
self worth, shared her husband with yet another Billah, conceived
and bore a son. Rachel, in accordance with the rituals
(16:46):
of the time, stood over her in an attempt to
open up her wound. It was a vain attempt.
Speaker 4 (16:52):
What should his name be, my lady, his.
Speaker 6 (16:55):
Name will be Dan, for God has heard my voice
and judged rightly that I should have a son.
Speaker 1 (17:03):
Jacob's growing family was marked with tension. Rachel and Leah,
bound by blood and marriage, were forced to live in
close proximity to each other, but their hatred boiled even
deeper towards each other since Billa entered the fray.
Speaker 6 (17:20):
Oh isn't damn precious He's going to be a strong boy.
Speaker 1 (17:26):
Rachel swooned over Billa's child loudly and in front of Lea.
Speaker 4 (17:31):
Yes, Bila must be happy to have such a healthy child.
Speaker 6 (17:35):
He's mine by right too, You know.
Speaker 4 (17:37):
Sure, Rachel, whatever brings you comfort.
Speaker 1 (17:40):
That night, Rachel gave Billa to Jacob again out of spite.
Jacob was once again thrust into the middle of a
war between sisters. In the moment, he enjoyed playing his part,
but with each child born to him, things only seemed
to get worse. Billa conceived and bore another son. Rachel
(18:02):
laughed at the sight of him. She had a competitive
fire in her against Leah.
Speaker 6 (18:07):
His name shall be neft Tully. With mighty wrestling, I
have struggled and warned with my sister and seized a victory.
Speaker 1 (18:18):
Leah paced back and forth, bouncing Judah on her hip.
Zilpah was close by, weaving a basket for Reuben to
take down to the stream for catching toads.
Speaker 4 (18:29):
Rachel so smug about these new children. The one thing
I had over her was that I could bear children.
But of course, clever, smart and talented Rachel finds a way.
It's just like our childhood.
Speaker 6 (18:41):
Bill Ha seems happy with the children I met, les
glad she gets that joy.
Speaker 4 (18:48):
Don't take their side. Yes, my lady, I've tried many
times to conceive another child, but I'm afraid I've dried
up or something. At this rate, Rachel and Bila will
catch up. And who's to say say Rachel won't end
up having children off her own.
Speaker 6 (19:03):
I think Jacob is content with having five healthy sons.
My lady, do we need to press this further?
Speaker 4 (19:11):
You don't understand. This isn't about Jacob anymore. This is
about me and Rachel. This is about who will sit
as the matriarch of this family. This is about dominance Zilpah,
this is about whose name will be etched next to
Jacob's in history.
Speaker 6 (19:29):
Then what do we do, my lady. We can't open
your womb to receive more children anymore than we can
close bill has.
Speaker 4 (19:37):
Rachel has changed the rules of the game. We'll play
by her rules. You'll marry Jacob as well and have
children on my behalf.
Speaker 6 (19:46):
It would be an honor, my lady. Are you sure
it must be done?
Speaker 1 (19:53):
Leah gave Zilpah to Jacob. Another pawn in the wall
between Lea and Rachel spoke Truly, it was no longer
about love gained and love kept between Jacob and his wives.
It had become a battle of dominance. The sons of
Jacob were born from petty squabbles of favoritism and vice
(20:14):
for power. Zilpah bore two sons, Gad which means good fortune,
and Asher, which means happy. They represented Lea's abundance and
the growing confidence she had as a woman of prominence
in Jacob's household. The heat of summer gave way to
the chilly bite of four. The morning dew grew frosted
(20:36):
and the wheat crops were fresh and ready for harvest.
Leah knew this was the perfect time to dig for mandreks,
often called love apples, they were well known to affect fertility.
Leah sent Reuben out to dig for mandregs. His hands
bore through the cold earth, digging up as many roots
as possible. When Rachel approached, he was carrying them back
(20:59):
to his mother in a bar.
Speaker 6 (21:00):
Ask it you there, boy, Come here? What do you
have there?
Speaker 3 (21:05):
Man drakes for my mother?
Speaker 6 (21:07):
Give some to me.
Speaker 5 (21:09):
I don't think I should.
Speaker 6 (21:14):
Come now. I'm your dear aunt. Give me some of
your man drakes.
Speaker 4 (21:19):
Stop harassing my son.
Speaker 1 (21:21):
Leah approached with the tenacity of a mother.
Speaker 6 (21:24):
Bear, give me some of your son's mandrakes.
Speaker 4 (21:28):
Huh, Not only have you taken my husband away from me,
But now you want my son's mandrakes.
Speaker 6 (21:34):
Enough of that nonsense about me stealing your husband. It's childish. Besides,
I need those mandrakes more than you do.
Speaker 4 (21:42):
Yet they're mine to give or keep as I please. Come, Reuben, I'll.
Speaker 6 (21:48):
I'll let you lie with Jacob if you give me
those mandrakes.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
Leah's ear is perked up. Jacob had been denying Leah
ever since she stopped bearing him children. An arrogant smile
flashed across Rachel's face. Leah claimed that Jacob was her husband,
yet here Rachel was a gatekeeper for his bed. She
had the real power. Leah's mind went back to the
(22:14):
beginning of this mess, when she was but a girl.
Desperate for Jacob's affection. She longed to be close to
him again. She drew a deep breath, nodded to Reuben,
and said, give.
Speaker 4 (22:27):
Her the mandrakes.
Speaker 6 (22:30):
You say I stole your husband, fine, but he's mine
to give now, don't forget it.
Speaker 1 (22:38):
Through the agreement struck with roots, Leah conceived two more sons,
his Herkhah and Zebulen. She also bore him a daughter, Dinah.
Speaker 4 (22:49):
God has given me what's fair since I've been generous.
Now my husband has no choice but to honor me,
since I've given him six sons and a daughter.
Speaker 1 (23:00):
Even so, after years of struggle and turmoil, God saw
fit to open Rachel's womb. She and Jacob conceived out
of love, and thus the grand spiral of love, favoritism,
and hatred continued. The grassy plains of Canaan were glowing
under the radiance of the stars. The heavens stretched out,
(23:24):
bending like a bow across the wilds. Each star was
a twinkling witness to Rachel's struggle. Her labored breaths rose
with the fire warming her tent.
Speaker 6 (23:35):
Ah, I can't do this. I'm not strong enough. I
never imagined this was possible. I thought God had forgotten me.
Ah ah ah, what's taking so long?
Speaker 2 (23:57):
What's wrong?
Speaker 1 (23:58):
Jacob was outside, forming a circle in the dirt with
his constant pacing. Rachel lay there, looking up at the
canvas above. Sweat beat down her brow and back. Jacob
ran close to the canvas wall and placed his face
beside it.
Speaker 2 (24:17):
I'm here, my love.
Speaker 1 (24:20):
Rachel closed her eyes and smiled. Having Jacob close helped
She had longed to give him a child since the
first time they met. Now, after nearly a lifetime together,
here she was only moments away from her dream. She
propped her head up and nodded to the midwife. She
curled forward and pushed with all her might. He was coming.
(24:43):
She did it again with a high scream. Closer a
third time, she clenched her fists and pushed. Her screams
were suddenly replaced by the soft cries of a newborn child,
a son, A pined after pressure miracle. The minute Jacob
heard those cries from the other side of the tent,
(25:05):
he ran in. His son cried in rachel arms. He
was the most beautiful thing Jacob had ever seen. Finally
he had a child born from love. All other blessings
in his life seemed to fade into the background as
he gazed upon his miracle child. He held him in
his arms, His beaming smile revealed his old and cracked face.
Speaker 2 (25:30):
My son, My son, I shall name you Joseph.
Speaker 1 (25:35):
He kissed his son's cheek and laid him in the
arms of his mother. Out of all of his brothers,
Joseph carried the favor of his father. The boy would
grow up under the attentive wing of his parents and
increase in knowledge, skill and pride. Great would be his
rise in his family, and great would be his fall.
(25:58):
Jacob expanded his lineage larger than his forefathers could ever imagine,
eleven sons to bear the promise given to Abraham and Isaac.
Yet the house of Jacob had a foundation built on pettiness, favoritism,
and jealousy. Jacob did nothing to thwart the coiling weeds
of discord choking out the life of his wives and children.
(26:26):
This Prey dog comproduction is only made possible by our
dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Gattina, Max Bard, Zach
Shellabarger 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,
(26:49):
Sylvia Zaradoc, Thomas Copeland, Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and Mitch Leshinsky.
Music by Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvatore Rosie
and Chris Bage. 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
(27:09):
the Chosen People, please rate and leave a review.
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