Genesis 24:20

And she quickly emptied her jar into the trough and ran back to the well to draw water, until she had drawn water for all his camels.

Study Bible

And she quickly emptied her jar into the trough
This phrase highlights Rebekah's eagerness and diligence. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, hospitality was a highly valued virtue. Rebekah's actions demonstrate her willingness to serve and her industrious nature. The trough was a common feature in ancient wells, designed to hold water for animals. This act of emptying her jar quickly suggests her efficiency and readiness to help, reflecting the qualities that would make her a suitable wife for Isaac.

and ran back to the well to draw water
Rebekah's running indicates her enthusiasm and commitment to the task. Wells were central to community life in ancient times, often located outside the city gates. Drawing water was typically a woman's task, and it required physical strength and endurance. Her repeated trips to the well show her dedication and strength, qualities that are commendable and align with the Proverbs 31 description of a virtuous woman.

until she had drawn water for all his camels
Camels are known to drink large quantities of water, especially after a long journey. A single camel can drink up to 20-30 gallons of water. Abraham's servant had ten camels, indicating that Rebekah's task was not only labor-intensive but also time-consuming. This detail underscores her generosity and willingness to go above and beyond what was expected. Her actions can be seen as a foreshadowing of the abundant blessings that would come through her lineage, ultimately leading to the birth of Jesus Christ, who offers living water to all (John 4:10-14).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
A young woman of great character and hospitality, Rebekah is the daughter of Bethuel and becomes the wife of Isaac. Her actions in this passage demonstrate her willingness to serve and her industrious nature.

2. Eliezer (Abraham's Servant)
Although not named in this chapter, he is traditionally understood to be Eliezer of Damascus, Abraham's trusted servant, tasked with finding a wife for Isaac.

3. The Well
A central place in the account, the well is where Rebekah meets Abraham's servant. It symbolizes provision and sustenance, both physically and spiritually.

4. Camels
The camels represent the wealth and status of Abraham's household. Rebekah's willingness to water them shows her generosity and diligence.

5. Nahor
The city where Abraham's relatives live, and where Rebekah is found. It is significant as the place where God's providence unfolds in the account.

Teaching Points

The Virtue of Diligence
Rebekah's quick and thorough response to the needs of the servant and his camels demonstrates the importance of diligence in our daily tasks. We are called to work heartily as unto the Lord.

The Heart of Hospitality
Rebekah's actions show a heart of hospitality, serving others without expecting anything in return. This is a model for Christian living, where we are encouraged to serve others selflessly.

Divine Appointments
The meeting at the well was not by chance but a divine appointment orchestrated by God. We should be attentive to the opportunities God places in our paths to fulfill His purposes.

Faith in Action
Rebekah's willingness to serve is an example of faith in action. Our faith should be evident in our deeds, reflecting the love and character of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's response to the servant's request demonstrate the qualities of a godly character?

2. In what ways can we practice hospitality in our own lives, and how does this reflect our faith?

3. How can we discern and respond to divine appointments in our daily interactions?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate diligence in our work and service to others?

5. How does the account of Rebekah at the well connect with other biblical accounts involving wells, and what spiritual lessons can we draw from these connections?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 31
Rebekah's industriousness and willingness to serve are reminiscent of the virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31, who is diligent and generous.

John 4
The encounter at the well between Jesus and the Samaritan woman parallels the meeting at the well in Genesis 24, highlighting themes of divine appointment and provision.

Hebrews 13:2
This verse speaks to the importance of hospitality, a trait exemplified by Rebekah in her actions towards Abraham's servant and his camels.