[121] It is quite natural, then, that the mating with Hagar should take place when ten years have elapsed from the arrival in the land of the Canaanites; for we cannot desire the training of the schools the moment we become reasoning beings, as the understanding is still soft and flaccid. That only comes when we have hardened our intelligence and quickness of mind and possess about all things a judgement which is no longer light and superficial, but firm and steady.
[122] That is why the text continues with the words that follow, “He went in unto Hagar” (Gen. 16:4), for it was well that the learner should resort to knowledge as his teacher, to be instructed in the lessons suited to human nature. In the present case the pupil is represented as going to the teacher’s school, but often knowledge rids herself of grudging pride, runs out to meet the gifted disciples, and draws them into her company.
[123] And so we may see that Leah, or virtue, goes forth to meet the Man of Practice when he was returning from the field, and says to him, “Thou shalt come in unto me to-day” (Gen. 30:16); for whither indeed should he go in, he who is tending the seeds and saplings of knowledge, save to virtue, the field of his husbandry?