Genesis 24:55

But her brother and mother said, "Let the girl remain with us ten days or so. After that, she may go."

Study Bible

But her brother and mother said,
In the context of Genesis 24, Rebekah's brother Laban and her mother are speaking. Laban's involvement is significant as he later becomes a central figure in the story of Jacob. The mention of both brother and mother highlights the familial structure and decision-making process in ancient Near Eastern cultures, where family consent was crucial in marriage arrangements. This reflects the patriarchal society where male relatives often had a say in such matters.

“Let the girl remain with us ten days or so.
The request for Rebekah to stay for "ten days or so" indicates a customary period for farewells and preparation for a bride's departure. This time would allow the family to celebrate, prepare, and emotionally adjust to the separation. The number ten can symbolize completeness or a full cycle in biblical numerology, suggesting a complete farewell. This request also shows the family's attachment to Rebekah and their desire to delay her departure, which can be seen as a natural emotional response.

After that, she may go.”
The phrase "after that, she may go" indicates the family's eventual consent to the marriage and Rebekah's journey to become Isaac's wife. This reflects the cultural practice of arranged marriages, where the bride's family ultimately agrees to the union. The willingness to let her go aligns with God's providential plan, as Rebekah's marriage to Isaac is part of the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding his descendants. This moment foreshadows the obedience and faith seen in Rebekah, paralleling the journey of faith that believers are called to undertake.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
- The young woman chosen to be Isaac's wife, demonstrating God's providence and guidance in the lives of His people.

2. Rebekah's Brother (Laban)
- He plays a significant role in the negotiations for Rebekah's departure, showing familial influence and decision-making.

3. Rebekah's Mother
- She, along with Laban, requests a delay in Rebekah's departure, highlighting the emotional and cultural aspects of leaving one's family.

4. Abraham's Servant
- Sent by Abraham to find a wife for Isaac, he represents faithfulness and trust in God's leading.

5. Haran
- The place where Rebekah's family lives, indicating the geographical and cultural context of the account.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Timing
The request for a delay contrasts with God's timing, reminding us to trust in His perfect plan rather than our own preferences.

Family Influence and Decision-Making
The role of Rebekah's family highlights the importance of family in decision-making, yet also the need to prioritize God's will.

Immediate Obedience
Rebekah's eventual decision to leave without delay serves as a model for immediate obedience to God's call in our lives.

Faith and Courage
Rebekah's willingness to embark on a journey to an unknown land exemplifies faith and courage, encouraging us to step out in faith when God calls.

Cultural and Emotional Considerations
The account acknowledges the emotional and cultural factors in leaving one's family, teaching us to be sensitive to these aspects in our own lives and decisions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's response to her family's request for a delay reflect her faith and trust in God's plan?

2. In what ways can family influence both positively and negatively impact our decisions to follow God's will?

3. How can we apply the principle of immediate obedience in our daily walk with God, especially when faced with difficult decisions?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that we are prioritizing God's timing over our own desires or cultural expectations?

5. How does Rebekah's account encourage us to have faith and courage when God calls us to step into the unknown? Can you think of a New Testament example that parallels this call to faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:58
- Rebekah's willingness to go immediately when asked reflects her faith and parallels the call of discipleship seen in the New Testament.

Genesis 31:55
- Laban's later interactions with Jacob show a pattern of familial negotiations and delays, providing insight into his character.

Luke 9:59-62
- Jesus' call to follow Him without delay echoes the urgency and commitment seen in Rebekah's decision to leave her family.