Genesis 46:18 Meaning and Explanation
“These are the sons of Zilpah, which Laban gave to Leah his daughter, and these she bare unto Jacob, even sixteen souls.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The tally of Zilpah's children totals sixteen souls.
The Context of Genesis 46:18
Summary count of Zilpah's descendants entering Egypt.
What Does Genesis 46:18 Mean?
Zilpah was Leah's maidservant, given to her by Laban when Jacob received Leah as his wife. Zilpah bore Jacob two sons (Gad and Asher), and their combined descendants total sixteen. This count includes the children of Gad and Asher and their respective families.
The mention of Zilpah as a gift from Laban links back to the complex arrangements of Jacob's marriages and reminds readers of the patriarchal structures at work. Yet Zilpah's children are fully included in the genealogy, with no lesser status, emphasizing that all of Jacob's children form one family and one covenant community.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 46:18
What does Genesis 46:18 mean?
The tally of Zilpah's children totals sixteen souls.
What is the context of Genesis 46:18?
Summary count of Zilpah's descendants entering Egypt.