Genesis 24:65

and asked the servant, "Who is that man in the field coming to meet us?" "It is my master," the servant answered. So she took her veil and covered herself.

Study Bible

and asked the servant,
In this passage, Rebekah is speaking to Abraham's servant, who is traditionally identified as Eliezer. This interaction highlights the servant's role as a mediator and guide, reflecting the importance of faithful service and obedience in biblical narratives. The servant's mission was to find a wife for Isaac, demonstrating the trust Abraham placed in him.

“Who is that man in the field coming to meet us?”
Rebekah's question indicates her curiosity and anticipation as she approaches her new life. The field is often a place of meeting and revelation in the Bible, as seen in other instances like Ruth meeting Boaz. This setting underscores the providential nature of the encounter. The man in the field is Isaac, who symbolizes the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding his descendants.

“It is my master,” the servant answered.
The servant's response identifies Isaac as his master, showing the servant's loyalty and the hierarchical structure of the household. Isaac, as the son of Abraham, holds a position of authority and significance. This moment foreshadows the continuation of God's covenant through Isaac, as he is the heir to Abraham's promise.

So she took her veil and covered herself.
Rebekah's action of veiling herself is culturally significant, reflecting modesty and the customs of betrothal in ancient Near Eastern societies. The veil symbolizes her transition from maidenhood to becoming a bride, marking her new identity and role. This act can also be seen as a type of the Church, the bride of Christ, preparing to meet the Bridegroom. The veil signifies respect and the sacredness of the marriage covenant, paralleling the spiritual union between Christ and the Church.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
A young woman from Mesopotamia, chosen by God to be Isaac's wife. Her actions in this verse demonstrate modesty and respect.

2. Isaac
The son of Abraham, who is in the field meditating when Rebekah arrives. He represents the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham.

3. The Servant
Likely Eliezer of Damascus, Abraham's trusted servant, who was sent to find a wife for Isaac. He plays a crucial role in ensuring God's plan is fulfilled.

4. The Field
The setting where Isaac and Rebekah first meet, symbolizing a place of divine encounter and fulfillment of God's promises.

5. The Veil
A symbol of modesty and cultural practice, indicating Rebekah's readiness to enter into the covenant of marriage.

Teaching Points

Modesty and Respect
Rebekah's act of covering herself with a veil is a demonstration of modesty and respect, which are timeless virtues for believers.

Divine Guidance
The meeting of Isaac and Rebekah is orchestrated by God, reminding us of His sovereignty and the importance of seeking His guidance in our relationships.

Cultural Sensitivity
Understanding and respecting cultural practices, as Rebekah did, can be important in our witness and relationships with others.

Preparation for Marriage
Rebekah's actions show readiness and willingness to enter into a covenant relationship, highlighting the importance of preparation and commitment in marriage.

Faith in Action
The entire journey of Rebekah and the servant is a testament to faith in action, encouraging believers to trust and obey God's leading.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's action of covering herself with a veil reflect her character and values? How can we apply similar principles of modesty and respect in our lives today?

2. In what ways does the meeting of Isaac and Rebekah demonstrate God's providence? Can you think of a time when you saw God's hand guiding your relationships?

3. How does the cultural practice of veiling relate to the biblical teachings on modesty found in the New Testament? How can we apply these teachings in a modern context?

4. What can we learn from the servant's role in this account about being faithful and obedient to God's calling in our lives?

5. How does the account of Isaac and Rebekah's meeting encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan for our lives, especially in the area of relationships and marriage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:24
The union of Isaac and Rebekah reflects the biblical principle of leaving and cleaving, as established in the creation account.

Proverbs 31:10-31
Rebekah's actions can be seen as embodying the virtues of a godly woman, as described in the Proverbs 31 passage.

1 Peter 3:3-4
Rebekah's modesty in covering herself aligns with New Testament teachings on the inner beauty and modesty of women.