Hosea 12:12 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

Bible Comments

And Jacob fled into the country of Syria, and Israel served for a wife, and for a wife he kept sheep. Served for a wife - Seven years for Rachel.

For a wife he kept sheep - Seven years for Leah; having been cheated by Laban, who gave him first Leah, instead of Rachel; and afterwards made him serve seven years more before he would confirm his first engagement. Critics complain of want of connection here. Why is this isolated fact predicted? Thus, in a detached sentence, the prophet speaks of the low estate of their ancestors, and how amply the providence of God had preserved and provided for them. This is all the connection the place requires.

Hosea 12:12

12 And Jacob fled into the country of Syria, and Israel served for a wife, and for a wife he kept sheep.