Genesis 24:46

She quickly lowered her jar from her shoulder and said, 'Drink, and I will water your camels as well.' So I drank, and she also watered the camels.

Study Bible

She quickly lowered her jar from her shoulder
This action demonstrates Rebekah's willingness and eagerness to serve, reflecting a hospitable and generous spirit. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, hospitality was a highly valued virtue. The act of lowering the jar quickly indicates her readiness to help a stranger, which aligns with the biblical principle of loving one's neighbor (Leviticus 19:34). This gesture also foreshadows her suitability as a wife for Isaac, as it fulfills the servant's prayer for a sign of kindness and diligence (Genesis 24:14).

and said, ‘Drink, and I will water your camels as well.’
Rebekah's offer to water the camels goes beyond the initial request for a drink, showcasing her generosity and industrious nature. Camels can drink a significant amount of water, and watering ten camels would have been a labor-intensive task. This reflects her willingness to go the extra mile, a trait that is commended in the New Testament (Matthew 5:41). Her actions can be seen as a type of Christ, who offers living water to all who are thirsty (John 4:10).

So I drank,
The servant's acceptance of Rebekah's offer signifies the fulfillment of his prayer and the divine guidance in finding a wife for Isaac. This moment underscores the theme of God's providence and faithfulness in the lives of the patriarchs. It also highlights the importance of discernment and trust in God's plan, as the servant had prayed specifically for this sign (Genesis 24:12-14).

and she also watered the camels.
Rebekah's follow-through on her promise to water the camels demonstrates her integrity and commitment. This act of service is significant in the narrative, as it confirms her as the chosen bride for Isaac, aligning with God's covenantal promises to Abraham. The watering of the camels can be seen as a symbol of abundance and blessing, reminiscent of God's provision for His people (Psalm 23:5). Rebekah's actions prefigure the servanthood of Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve (Mark 10:45).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
A young woman from the family of Abraham's brother Nahor, who demonstrates hospitality and kindness by offering water to Abraham's servant and his camels.

2. Abraham's Servant
Likely Eliezer, tasked with finding a wife for Isaac, Abraham's son, from his relatives in Mesopotamia.

3. The Well
A common gathering place in ancient times, where Rebekah meets Abraham's servant. It symbolizes provision and divine encounters.

4. Camels
Represent wealth and the servant's long journey, highlighting Rebekah's generosity and willingness to serve beyond what was asked.

5. Nahor's City
The location where Abraham's servant finds Rebekah, fulfilling Abraham's desire for a wife for Isaac from his own kin.

Teaching Points

Hospitality and Service
Rebekah's actions exemplify true hospitality and service, going beyond what is expected. Christians are called to serve others selflessly.

Divine Guidance
The account illustrates how God guides His people through prayer and providence. Trust in God's leading in life's decisions.

Character and Virtue
Rebekah's willingness to serve reflects her character. Believers should cultivate virtues like kindness, generosity, and diligence.

Faith in Action
Rebekah's immediate response to the servant's need shows faith in action. Christians should be ready to act on their faith in practical ways.

God's Faithfulness
The fulfillment of the servant's prayer demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises. Trust in God's faithfulness in your own life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's response to the servant's request demonstrate the biblical principle of hospitality, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Rebekah at the well parallel other biblical accounts of divine encounters at wells? What can we learn from these parallels?

3. How does Rebekah's willingness to serve beyond what was asked reflect the character of a Proverbs 31 woman, and how can we strive to embody these qualities?

4. What role does prayer play in the servant's journey, and how can we incorporate prayer into our decision-making processes?

5. How does this passage encourage us to trust in God's providence and timing, especially when seeking guidance for important life decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:14
The servant's prayer for a sign, which Rebekah fulfills, showing God's providence and guidance.

Proverbs 31:10-31
The description of a virtuous woman, paralleling Rebekah's industrious and generous spirit.

John 4:7-15
Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well, highlighting themes of living water and divine appointments.

Hebrews 13:2
Encouragement to show hospitality, as Rebekah did, possibly entertaining angels unaware.