Genesis 24:23

"Whose daughter are you?" he asked. "Please tell me, is there room in your father's house for us to spend the night?"

Study Bible

Whose daughter are you?
This question is pivotal in the narrative, as it reflects the cultural importance of family lineage and heritage in ancient Near Eastern societies. The Hebrew root for "daughter" is "בַּת" (bat), which not only signifies a biological relationship but also implies belonging to a family or clan. In the context of Genesis, lineage is crucial, as it ties into the Abrahamic covenant and the continuation of God's promises through specific family lines. This question also underscores the servant's mission to find a wife for Isaac from Abraham's kin, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the purity of the covenantal line.

Please tell me
The phrase "please tell me" indicates a polite and respectful request, which is significant in the context of ancient hospitality customs. The Hebrew word "נָא" (na) is often used to convey a sense of urgency or earnestness, reflecting the servant's sincere desire to fulfill his mission. This politeness also sets the tone for the interaction, highlighting the servant's humility and the importance of respectful communication in fulfilling God's purposes.

is there room in your father’s house
The concept of "room" in the Hebrew context, "מָקוֹם" (makom), often implies not just physical space but also the idea of welcome and hospitality. In ancient times, hospitality was a sacred duty, and providing shelter to travelers was a common practice. The mention of "your father’s house" ties back to the patriarchal structure of society, where the father's house was the center of family life and authority. This request for lodging is not merely practical but also a test of Rebekah's character and her family's willingness to extend hospitality, which is a reflection of their righteousness and alignment with God's values.

for us to spend the night?
The phrase "to spend the night" in Hebrew, "לָלוּן" (lalun), suggests a temporary stay, which is significant in the context of the servant's journey. This request is not just about physical rest but also about finding a place of safety and refuge. In the broader biblical narrative, the idea of finding rest and refuge often symbolizes finding favor and alignment with God's will. The servant's inquiry about lodging is a step in discerning whether Rebekah and her family are the right choice for Isaac, as it tests their willingness to provide shelter and support, aligning with the values of kindness and generosity that are central to the Abrahamic faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham's Servant
The unnamed servant, likely Eliezer, is on a mission to find a wife for Isaac, Abraham's son. He is a faithful and prayerful servant, seeking God's guidance in his task.

2. Rebekah
The young woman who comes to draw water at the well. She is the daughter of Bethuel, and her actions demonstrate hospitality and kindness.

3. The Well
A significant meeting place in ancient times, often a site of divine encounters and important social interactions.

4. Nahor's City
The city where Abraham's relatives live, indicating the servant's journey to find a wife from Abraham's own family line.

5. Hospitality
A central theme in this passage, reflecting the cultural and spiritual importance of welcoming strangers.

Teaching Points

Faithful Service
The servant's dedication to his master's mission is a model of faithful service. We are called to serve God and others with the same commitment and reliance on His guidance.

Divine Guidance
The servant's prayer and subsequent encounter with Rebekah illustrate the importance of seeking God's direction in our decisions. We should cultivate a habit of prayer and trust in God's providence.

Hospitality and Kindness
Rebekah's willingness to offer water and shelter reflects the biblical call to show kindness and hospitality. We are encouraged to open our hearts and homes to those in need.

God's Sovereignty
The unfolding events demonstrate God's sovereign hand in orchestrating His plans. We can trust that God is at work in our lives, even in seemingly ordinary circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the servant's approach to finding a wife for Isaac demonstrate his faith and reliance on God? How can we apply this approach in our own decision-making processes?

2. In what ways does Rebekah's response to the servant's request exemplify biblical hospitality? How can we practice hospitality in our daily lives?

3. How does the theme of divine guidance in Genesis 24 connect with other biblical passages that emphasize trusting in God's plan? Can you think of a personal experience where you saw God's guidance?

4. What can we learn from the servant's prayer in Genesis 24:12-14 about seeking God's will? How can we incorporate similar prayers into our spiritual practice?

5. How does the account of Rebekah and the servant illustrate the concept of God's sovereignty? How can this understanding impact our perspective on the events in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:12-14
The servant's prayer for guidance and a sign from God, showing his reliance on divine providence.

Hebrews 13:2
The New Testament exhortation to show hospitality to strangers, as some have entertained angels without knowing it, echoing the theme of hospitality in Genesis 24.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the Lord with all your heart and acknowledging Him in all your ways, as exemplified by the servant's reliance on God.