Genesis 24:46

She quickly lowered her jar from her shoulder and said, 'Drink, and I will water your camels as well.' So I drank, and she also watered the camels.

Study Bible

She quickly lowered her jar from her shoulder
The phrase "quickly lowered" indicates Rebekah's eagerness and willingness to serve, reflecting a heart of hospitality and kindness. The Hebrew root for "quickly" (מַהֵר, maher) suggests promptness and readiness, which is a valued trait in biblical narratives, often associated with obedience and diligence. The act of lowering the jar from her shoulder signifies humility and a readiness to meet the needs of others, a characteristic that is highly esteemed in the biblical context.

and said, 'Drink
The invitation to "Drink" is a simple yet profound act of generosity. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, offering water to a stranger was a significant gesture of hospitality. The Hebrew word for "said" (אָמַר, amar) is often used in the context of making a declaration or promise, indicating that Rebekah's words were not just a casual offer but a sincere commitment to help.

and I will water your camels as well
This phrase reveals Rebekah's extraordinary generosity and industriousness. Watering camels was a labor-intensive task, as camels can drink large quantities of water. The Hebrew word for "water" (שָׁקָה, shaqah) implies providing sustenance and care. Rebekah's willingness to go beyond what was asked of her demonstrates a servant's heart and foreshadows her suitability as a matriarch in the lineage of Israel.

So I drank
The narrator's acknowledgment, "So I drank," confirms the fulfillment of Rebekah's promise. This act of drinking signifies acceptance and trust, as the servant partakes in the hospitality offered. It also marks the beginning of a divinely orchestrated encounter, as the servant recognizes Rebekah as the answer to his prayer.

and she also watered the camels
Rebekah's follow-through in watering the camels underscores her reliability and faithfulness. The repetition of her action highlights her commitment to her word, a trait that is highly valued in Scripture. This act of service not only fulfills the servant's request but also serves as a sign of God's providence and guidance in the selection of Isaac's wife.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
A young woman from the family of Abraham's brother Nahor, who demonstrates hospitality and kindness by offering water to Abraham's servant and his camels.

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

3. The Well
A common gathering place in ancient times, where Rebekah meets Abraham's servant. It symbolizes provision and divine encounters.

4. Camels
Represent wealth and the servant's long journey, highlighting Rebekah's generosity and willingness to serve beyond what was asked.

5. Nahor's City
The location where Abraham's servant finds Rebekah, fulfilling Abraham's desire for a wife for Isaac from his own kin.

Teaching Points

Hospitality and Service
Rebekah's actions exemplify true hospitality and service, going beyond what is expected. Christians are called to serve others selflessly.

Divine Guidance
The account illustrates how God guides His people through prayer and providence. Trust in God's leading in life's decisions.

Character and Virtue
Rebekah's willingness to serve reflects her character. Believers should cultivate virtues like kindness, generosity, and diligence.

Faith in Action
Rebekah's immediate response to the servant's need shows faith in action. Christians should be ready to act on their faith in practical ways.

God's Faithfulness
The fulfillment of the servant's prayer demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises. Trust in God's faithfulness in your own life.

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 account of Rebekah at the well parallel other biblical accounts of divine encounters at wells? What can we learn from these parallels?

3. How does Rebekah's willingness to serve beyond what was asked reflect the character of a Proverbs 31 woman, and how can we strive to embody these qualities?

4. What role does prayer play in the servant's journey, and how can we incorporate prayer into our decision-making processes?

5. How does this passage encourage us to trust in God's providence and timing, especially when seeking guidance for important life decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Proverbs 31:10-31
The description of a virtuous woman, paralleling Rebekah's industrious and generous spirit.

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

Hebrews 13:2
Encouragement to show hospitality, as Rebekah did, possibly entertaining angels unaware.