The answer is: Reuben

Gen 30:14 - In Hebrew mandrakes are known as "love-plants" or "love-apples".

Let’s delve a bit deeper into the curious tale of mandrakes and Leah's sons! Reuben, Leah's eldest, fetched these intriguing plants, which were believed to possess magical properties and aid in fertility. The Bible doesn’t shy away from colorful narratives, and this episode in Genesis 30 is just such a story, layered with themes of rivalry and motherhood.

Now, let's talk about mandrakes! In ancient cultures, including the time of Leah, mandrakes were thought to be more than just a plant; they were often associated with love and desire. This also links to how in certain folklore, where they were seen as potent love charms. The Hebrew term “love-apples” aptly reflects the cultural associations assigned to these curious roots.

Picking up on the family dynamics, Leah’s desperate quest for the love of her husband, Jacob, showcases the intense competition between her and her sister, Rachel. It strikes a particularly human chord, as both women navigated challenges surrounding their identities as mothers. It reminds us, too, that motherhood—and the desire to nurture—is as old as time, wrapped tightly in love's complexity.

Interestingly, Leah and Rachel's tale reflects broader themes found throughout the Bible—struggles, hopes, and interpersonal relationships—just like many of our current family dynamics, reminding us how timeless these patterns truly are. Whether it’s a mandrake or a heartfelt connection, the quest for love and acceptance is a universal story.