The elder daughter of Laban, given to Jacob through her father's deception on the wedding night (Gen 29:23–25). Though described as having 'tender eyes' in contrast to Rachel's beauty, Leah becomes the mother of six sons — Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun — and a daughter, Dinah. Her story is one of perseverance through rejection; her naming speeches reveal deep longing for her husband's love (Gen 29:32–35; 30:18–20). She is buried in the cave of Machpelah alongside the other patriarchs and matriarchs (Gen 49:31). Ruth 4:11 honors her alongside Rachel as a builder of the house of Israel. The name may derive from a word meaning 'wild cow,' paralleling Rachel ('ewe').