Genesis 30:8Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

In the end, through the example of the servant, she understood that Jacob was not the reason for her barrenness; thus, she regards those born of the servant as her own offspring. She names them herself, discovering in this act the deepest comfort for her soul.

A different interpretation for the name Naphtali is proposed here than that found in the Book of Hebrew Names. In this context, Akilah states: “God has united me, and I have been joined together.” However, the original Hebrew text expresses this as: nephthule eloim nephthalethi. Thus, whether it relates to 'conversion' or 'combination,' she chose the name Naphtali for her son, as this term embodies both meanings of 'conversion' and 'combination.' Following this, it's noted that the etymological interpretation provided by Aquila for the verb נִפְתָּל (which can mean ‘to twist’ or ‘to unite’) might seem erroneous, given that this account is traditionally understood as a representation of the contention between Leah and Rachel.

You are curious about the meanings behind the names of the patriarchs. Allow me to share these insights with you. Nephealim refers to a bent branch or signifies prayer.

I contended with my sister in the presence of the Divine and emerged victorious. Onkelos provides an interpretation of this statement by suggesting that God heard my plea when I petitioned for a son, just as my sister had. We might also consider the rivalry between the sisters, represented by Leah's relentless efforts to be with Jacob and Rachel's dedication to solidifying her relationship with him through adopted children. This Divine conflict signifies a struggle bolstered by God's assistance. Naphtali. Thus, the struggle is indeed my own.