Genesis 24:53

Then he brought out jewels of silver and gold, and articles of clothing, and he gave them to Rebekah. He also gave precious gifts to her brother and her mother.

Study Bible

Then the servant
The servant in this context is Eliezer, Abraham's trusted servant, who was tasked with finding a wife for Isaac. The Hebrew word for servant, "עֶבֶד" (eved), implies a bondservant, someone who is deeply committed to their master's will. Eliezer's role is pivotal, as he acts as a mediator of God's covenantal promises to Abraham's lineage. His faithfulness and obedience are exemplary, reflecting the ideal servant-leader who seeks to fulfill God's purposes.

brought out
The act of bringing out these gifts signifies a formal and intentional presentation. In ancient Near Eastern culture, such actions were part of the betrothal process, symbolizing the establishment of a covenant. The Hebrew root "יָצָא" (yatsa) conveys the idea of going forth or bringing forth, indicating a deliberate and purposeful action in fulfilling his mission.

gold and silver jewelry
Gold and silver were highly valued in ancient times, often used as currency and symbols of wealth and status. The Hebrew words "זָהָב" (zahav) for gold and "כֶּסֶף" (kesef) for silver highlight the preciousness of these materials. Their use here underscores the importance and seriousness of the marriage arrangement, as well as the wealth and generosity of Abraham's household.

and articles of clothing
Clothing in biblical times was not only a necessity but also a symbol of identity and status. The Hebrew word "בֶּגֶד" (beged) for clothing can also imply treachery or deceit, but in this context, it represents honor and provision. Providing clothing to Rebekah signifies her new identity and status as part of Abraham's family, foreshadowing the spiritual garments of righteousness believers receive in Christ.

and gave them to Rebekah
The giving of these gifts to Rebekah is a significant act of betrothal, marking her as the chosen bride for Isaac. The Hebrew verb "נָתַן" (natan) means to give, bestow, or grant, emphasizing the generosity and intentionality behind the act. This gesture reflects God's grace in choosing and providing for His people, as Rebekah is chosen to be part of the lineage through which the Messiah would come.

He also gave precious gifts
The additional gifts to Rebekah's family highlight the cultural practice of bride price or dowry, which served to honor the bride's family and solidify the marriage agreement. The Hebrew word "מִנְחָה" (minchah) for gift can also mean offering or tribute, suggesting a sacrificial element in the giving, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ for His bride, the Church.

to her brother and to her mother
The inclusion of Rebekah's brother and mother in the gift-giving process underscores the communal and familial nature of marriage in ancient times. The Hebrew words "אָח" (ach) for brother and "אֵם" (em) for mother reflect the importance of family consent and blessing in the marriage covenant. This act of giving honors the family structure and acknowledges their role in Rebekah's life, paralleling the Christian understanding of the Church as a family united in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham's Servant
The unnamed servant, often identified as Eliezer, is tasked with finding a wife for Isaac. His faithfulness and obedience are central to the account.

2. Rebekah
The chosen bride for Isaac, Rebekah is a key figure in the continuation of Abraham's lineage and God's covenant promises.

3. Rebekah's Family
Her brother Laban and her mother are recipients of the gifts, indicating the cultural practices of betrothal and family negotiations.

4. Haran
The place where Abraham's servant finds Rebekah, highlighting the journey and divine guidance in the servant's mission.

5. The Gifts
Gold, silver, and clothing symbolize wealth, honor, and the seriousness of the marriage proposal.

Teaching Points

Divine Guidance in Decision-Making
Trust in God's providence as seen in the servant's journey and prayerful approach.

The Importance of Family and Community
Recognize the role of family in significant life decisions, as seen in the involvement of Rebekah's family.

Generosity and Honor in Relationships
The giving of gifts reflects the importance of generosity and respect in forming new relationships.

Faithfulness in Service
The servant's dedication to his master's mission is a model of faithfulness and integrity.

Symbolism of Gifts in Covenant Relationships
Understand the cultural and spiritual significance of gifts in establishing and honoring covenants.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways does the involvement of Rebekah's family in the marriage proposal reflect biblical principles of community and family, and how can we incorporate these principles today?

3. What can we learn from the servant's faithfulness and dedication to his task, and how can this inspire us in our own roles and responsibilities?

4. How do the gifts given to Rebekah and her family symbolize the seriousness and honor of the marriage covenant, and what parallels can we draw to our understanding of Christian marriage?

5. How does this passage connect to the broader biblical theme of God's providence and faithfulness, and where else do we see this theme in Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:10-27
The servant's prayer and God's guidance in finding Rebekah demonstrate divine providence and faith in action.

Proverbs 18:22
The value of finding a good wife is echoed in the account, emphasizing the blessing of a godly marriage.

Ephesians 5:25-33
The gifts and the marriage proposal can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament teachings on the sacrificial love and commitment in marriage.