Love's Paradox: When Time Flies or Stands Still?
In this article, you will learn how Genesis 29:20 contradicts Proverbs 13:12, Ecclesiastes 7:8, 1 Corinthians 13:4, Jeremiah 17:9 and Psalm 90:10. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The story of Jacob's love for Rachel in Genesis 29:20 presents an intriguing scenario where his profound love transforms seven years of labor into what feels like "but a few days." This depiction of love appears to challenge several other biblical messages.
Consider Proverbs 13:12, which notes that "delayed hope maketh the heart sick," suggesting that waiting is inherently challenging and emotionally draining. Yet Jacob's experience seems to defy this notion, raising questions about whether love can indeed override the universal struggles of patience.
In Ecclesiastes 7:8, the idea that "better is the end of a thing than the beginning" is shared, implying that the conclusion of a journey holds more value than the process. Jacob's labor for Rachel seemingly contradicts this, as his dedication makes the arduous beginning seem effortless and fulfilling in itself.
Meanwhile, 1 Corinthians 13:4 states that "charity suffereth long" and implies that love endures patiently through hardships. Jacob's story suggests a paradox, where love not only endures but makes the passage of time inexplicably fleeting rather than a prolonged struggle.
Jeremiah 17:9 adds another layer by describing the heart as "deceitful above all things." This stands in stark contrast to the pure and devoted nature of Jacob's affection, presenting love as true and unwavering, even over extensive periods.
Lastly, Psalm 90:10 speaks of life's brevity and laborious nature, yet Jacob's experience seemingly transcends these earthly burdens, prompting one to ponder how love might transform toil into moments of joy and brevity into eternity.
These contrasting perspectives invite reflection on whether love truly alters the perception of time and hardship or if Jacob’s experience is a unique testament to the nature of unwavering devotion. Is love truly capable of such profound transformation, or is it an exception rather than a rule?
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Genesis 29:20 | And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him [but] a few days, for the love he had to her. |
| 2. | Proverbs 13:12 | Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but [when] the desire cometh, [it is] a tree of life. |
| 3. | Ecclesiastes 7:8 | Better [is] the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: [and] the patient in spirit [is] better than the proud in spirit. |
| 4. | 1 Corinthians 13:4 | Charity suffereth long, [and] is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, [vaunteth...: or, is not rash] |
| 5. | Jeremiah 17:9 | The heart [is] deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it? |
| 6. | Psalm 90:10 | The days of our years [are] threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength [they be] fourscore years, yet [is] their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. [The days...: Heb. As for the days of our years, in them are seventy years] |