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Genesis 29 General Notes
Structure and formatting
This chapter records the conflict between Jacob's wives, Rachel and Leah. This account continues into the next chapter.
Special concepts in this chapter
Shepherds
Although the exact reasoning for the shepherds' unwillingness to give water to the sheep is unknown, it is probable they were being lazy. The actions of these shepherds contrast Jacob's actions.
Kissing
It was common in the ancient Near East for relatives to greet each other with a kiss. There was nothing sexual about this type of kissing.
Marriage
It was customary in the ancient Near East for a man to work for a woman's father in order to earn the right to marry her. It is unknown how common it was for a father to have his younger daughter marry before an older daughter. It was also sinful for Jacob to marry more than one wife. (See: rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin)