Here in the centre of the opening book of the Old Testament, we see another link to the gospel. On a road to a place called Bethlehem is the heart of the Christian gospel.
“Then they moved on from Bethel. While they were still some distance from Ephrath, Rachel began to give birth and had great difficulty. 17 And as she was having great difficulty in childbirth, the midwife said to her, “Don’t despair, for you have another son.” 18 As she breathed her last—for she was dying—she named her son Ben-Oni. But his father named him Benjamin. 19 So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem). 20 Over her tomb Jacob set up a pillar, and to this day that pillar marks Rachel’s tomb.” (Genesis 35 v 16-20)
Israel (Jacob) is on the move again, and this time to Ephrath, which would later be known as Bethlehem.
On the road, Rachel goes into labour, and it’s not easy for her. She had ‘great difficulty’. The writer uses the phrase twice. Births are difficult at the best of times, but on the way, this was ‘great difficulty.’ Rachel fights for her life, and the child is also in danger. Then what happens is what you and I have known throughout life. Good news and grief sometimes come at the same time.
The irony is bitter. The one who prayed for children receives a second son but then dies. Before she does, she names her son Ben Oni – son of my sorrow. This is not her cursing her son; it is Rachel declaring her testimony of what she has experienced. Her voice dies away as she breathes her last.
Jacob does not let this naming be permanent. He will not let his son be defined by this tragedy. He calls him Benjamin, meaning ‘son of my right hand’ or ‘son of honour’. Jacob will not let the sorrow of his start in life be the one that defines him. His mother’s experience will not be his son’s identity. Jacob copied his God, who would not let him be known as the deceiver, but Israel, the Prince of God.
So Rachel is buried in a place of great significance for our faith. Jacob set up a pillar. Rachel will not be forgotten.
In the future, a young couple will travel to the area that will be known as Bethlehem, and a son will be born. He would come and bring healing to all who are broken-hearted and will wipe away every tear.
The heart of the gospel is right here.
Missions Paul 