Genesis 24:28

The girl ran and told her mother's household about these things.

Study Bible

The girl ran
The phrase "The girl ran" indicates urgency and excitement. In the Hebrew text, the word for "ran" is "רָץ" (ratz), which conveys a sense of eagerness and haste. This reflects Rebekah's enthusiasm and the importance of the message she carried. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, running was not a common activity for women, suggesting that Rebekah's actions were driven by a significant event. Her immediate response underscores the divine orchestration at work, as she was chosen to be Isaac's wife, fulfilling God's covenantal promises to Abraham.

and told
The act of telling, "וַתַּגֵּד" (vattagged), implies communication of important news. Rebekah's decision to share the encounter with her family highlights the communal nature of life in ancient times, where family units were tightly knit, and significant events were shared collectively. This act of telling also signifies the beginning of a transition in Rebekah's life, as she moves from her family to become part of Abraham's lineage.

her mother’s household
The mention of "her mother’s household" is significant. In patriarchal societies, the father's household was typically emphasized, but here, the focus on the mother's household may indicate the matriarchal influence or the domestic sphere where women held sway. This detail provides insight into the family dynamics and the role of women in Rebekah's life. It also suggests that Rebekah's mother played a crucial role in her upbringing and decision-making processes.

about these things
The phrase "about these things" refers to the events that had just transpired, specifically the encounter with Abraham's servant and the proposal for marriage to Isaac. The Hebrew word "הַדְּבָרִים" (hadd'varim) can mean "words" or "things," indicating the weight and significance of the message. This moment is pivotal in the narrative, as it sets in motion the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding his descendants. Rebekah's recounting of the events is not just a simple report but a testimony to God's providence and faithfulness in orchestrating the union that would continue the Abrahamic covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
A young woman from the household of Bethuel, who is the daughter of Bethuel and the granddaughter of Nahor, Abraham's brother. She is the central figure in this verse as she runs to inform her family about her encounter with Abraham's servant.

2. Abraham's Servant
Though not named in this verse, he is the servant sent by Abraham to find a wife for Isaac. His encounter with Rebekah at the well is a pivotal moment in the account.

3. Rebekah's Mother's Household
The family of Rebekah, which includes her mother and other household members. This is the place where Rebekah runs to share the news of her encounter.

4. The Well
The location where Rebekah meets Abraham's servant. It is a significant setting in the account, symbolizing provision and divine appointment.

5. Bethuel
Rebekah's father, who is part of the household she informs. His lineage connects Rebekah to Abraham's family, fulfilling the servant's mission.

Teaching Points

Faithful Obedience
Rebekah's immediate response to share the news with her family demonstrates a heart of obedience and transparency. Believers are encouraged to be prompt in sharing God's work in their lives.

Divine Appointments
The meeting at the well was not by chance but orchestrated by God. We should be attentive to divine appointments in our own lives, recognizing God's hand in our daily interactions.

Family and Community
Rebekah's action of informing her household underscores the importance of family and community in God's plans. We are reminded to involve and inform our families in spiritual matters.

God's Faithfulness
The unfolding events in this chapter highlight God's faithfulness to His promises. Trusting in God's timing and provision is crucial for believers.

Role of Women in Scripture
Rebekah's proactive role in this account challenges us to recognize and value the significant contributions of women in God's redemptive history.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's immediate action to inform her family reflect her character, and what can we learn from her example about sharing God's work in our lives?

2. In what ways can we identify and respond to divine appointments in our own lives, similar to the encounter at the well?

3. How does the involvement of Rebekah's family in this account emphasize the importance of community in our spiritual journeys?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in fulfilling a promise. How does this encourage you to trust Him more?

5. Considering Rebekah's role in this account, how can we better appreciate and support the contributions of women in our faith communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:12-27
This passage provides the context for Rebekah's actions, detailing the servant's prayer and God's providential guidance in leading him to Rebekah.

Proverbs 31:10-31
This passage describes the qualities of a virtuous woman, which can be seen in Rebekah's character and actions.

Hebrews 11:8-9
These verses highlight the faith of Abraham, which is mirrored in the faithfulness of his servant and the unfolding of God's promises through Rebekah.