Genesis 24:18

"Drink, my lord," she replied, and she quickly lowered her jar to her hands and gave him a drink.

Study Bible

Drink, my lord
The phrase begins with an invitation, "Drink," which in Hebrew is "שְׁתֵה" (sheteh). This word is a simple imperative, reflecting a command or an offer. In the context of ancient Near Eastern hospitality, offering water to a stranger was a fundamental act of kindness and service. The term "my lord" is "אֲדֹנִי" (adoni) in Hebrew, a respectful address acknowledging the stranger's dignity and status. This reflects Rebekah's humility and respect, which are central virtues in the biblical narrative. Her use of "my lord" indicates a recognition of the divine orchestration at work, as she unknowingly serves Abraham's servant, who is on a mission from God.

she replied
The Hebrew word for "replied" is "וַתֹּאמֶר" (vatomer), which is a common verb used throughout the Old Testament to denote speech. This word indicates a response, suggesting that Rebekah's actions are not just automatic but thoughtful and intentional. Her reply is immediate and without hesitation, demonstrating her willingness to serve and her readiness to act in accordance with God's unfolding plan. This reflects the biblical theme of prompt obedience to God's will.

and she quickly lowered her jar to her hands
The phrase "quickly lowered" is translated from the Hebrew "וַתְּמַהֵר" (vatemaher), which conveys a sense of urgency and eagerness. Rebekah's actions are characterized by speed and efficiency, highlighting her industrious nature. The act of lowering the jar "to her hands" suggests a posture of service and humility. In the cultural context, drawing water was a labor-intensive task, often performed by women, and Rebekah's willingness to do so quickly for a stranger underscores her generous spirit and servant heart.

and gave him a drink
The act of giving a drink is captured in the Hebrew "וַתַּשְׁקֵהוּ" (vatashkehu), which is a verb that means to provide or to cause to drink. This action completes the gesture of hospitality, fulfilling the servant's immediate need. In the broader scriptural context, water is often symbolic of life and blessing. Rebekah's provision of water not only meets a physical need but also signifies her role in God's providential plan, as she becomes the chosen wife for Isaac, continuing the Abrahamic covenant. Her actions foreshadow the living water that Christ offers, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
A young woman of marriageable age, known for her beauty and kindness. She is the daughter of Bethuel and becomes the wife of Isaac.

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

3. The Well
A common gathering place for drawing water, significant in biblical accounts as a place of divine encounters and provision.

4. Nahor
The city where Abraham's relatives lived, named after Abraham's brother.

5. The Event
The servant's prayerful search for a wife for Isaac, leading to Rebekah's act of hospitality.

Teaching Points

Hospitality as a Virtue
Rebekah's willingness to serve a stranger exemplifies the biblical call to hospitality. We are encouraged to be open and generous to those we encounter.

Divine Guidance in Decision-Making
The servant's reliance on prayer and God's guidance in choosing a wife for Isaac teaches us to seek God's will in our decisions.

The Role of Women in God's Plan
Rebekah's pivotal role in the Abrahamic lineage highlights the importance of women in God's redemptive history.

Faithfulness in Small Acts
Rebekah's simple act of drawing water becomes a significant moment in God's plan, reminding us that small acts of faithfulness can have great impact.

God's Providence and Timing
The meeting at the well shows God's perfect timing and provision, encouraging us to trust in His plans for our lives.

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 servant's prayer and subsequent encounter with Rebekah illustrate the importance of seeking God's guidance in our decisions?

3. How does Rebekah's character and actions align with the description of a virtuous woman in Proverbs 31, and what qualities can we strive to emulate?

4. What can we learn from the parallels between Rebekah's encounter at the well and Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman in John 4?

5. How does this passage encourage us to trust in God's providence and timing, especially when we are waiting for answers to our prayers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Proverbs 31:10-31
The description of a virtuous woman, paralleling Rebekah's character and actions.

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

Hebrews 13:2
The call to show hospitality, as Rebekah does, entertaining angels unaware.

1 Peter 3:3-4
The emphasis on inner beauty and a gentle spirit, qualities seen in Rebekah.