Genesis 24:55

But her brother and mother said, "Let the girl remain with us ten days or so. After that, she may go."

Study Bible

But her brother and her mother said
This phrase introduces the familial dynamics at play in the narrative. In ancient Near Eastern culture, family members, particularly male relatives, played a significant role in marriage arrangements. The brother, Laban, and the mother of Rebekah are exercising their cultural and familial authority. The Hebrew word for "brother" (אָח, 'ach) often signifies a close kinship bond, emphasizing the protective and guiding role of family in Rebekah's life. This reflects the importance of family consent and involvement in marriage decisions, a practice deeply rooted in the traditions of the time.

Let the girl remain with us
The request for Rebekah to stay longer highlights the emotional and social aspects of marriage. The Hebrew word for "girl" (נַעֲרָה, na'arah) indicates a young woman of marriageable age, underscoring her readiness for this new phase of life. The family's desire for her to remain suggests a reluctance to part with a beloved daughter and sister, reflecting the strong familial bonds and the significant transition marriage represented. This moment captures the tension between familial attachment and the fulfillment of God's plan, as orchestrated through Abraham's servant.

ten days or so
The specific mention of "ten days" (עֲשָׂרָה יָמִים, asarah yamim) can be seen as a culturally significant period, possibly intended for farewells and preparation. In the ancient world, numbers often held symbolic meaning, and the number ten can represent completeness or a full cycle. This request for a delay may also reflect a customary period for finalizing marriage arrangements or simply a desire for more time to adjust to the impending separation.

After that, she may go
This phrase indicates a conditional agreement, showing the family's willingness to eventually release Rebekah to fulfill the marriage agreement. The Hebrew verb "go" (יֵלֵךְ, yelech) implies a journey or transition, both physically and spiritually. It signifies Rebekah's movement from her family home to a new life with Isaac, aligning with God's providential plan. This moment is pivotal, as it underscores the theme of obedience and trust in God's promises, a recurring motif throughout the Genesis narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
- The young woman chosen to be Isaac's wife, demonstrating God's providence and guidance in the lives of His people.

2. Rebekah's Brother (Laban)
- He plays a significant role in the negotiations for Rebekah's departure, showing familial influence and decision-making.

3. Rebekah's Mother
- She, along with Laban, requests a delay in Rebekah's departure, highlighting the emotional and cultural aspects of leaving one's family.

4. Abraham's Servant
- Sent by Abraham to find a wife for Isaac, he represents faithfulness and trust in God's leading.

5. Haran
- The place where Rebekah's family lives, indicating the geographical and cultural context of the account.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Timing
The request for a delay contrasts with God's timing, reminding us to trust in His perfect plan rather than our own preferences.

Family Influence and Decision-Making
The role of Rebekah's family highlights the importance of family in decision-making, yet also the need to prioritize God's will.

Immediate Obedience
Rebekah's eventual decision to leave without delay serves as a model for immediate obedience to God's call in our lives.

Faith and Courage
Rebekah's willingness to embark on a journey to an unknown land exemplifies faith and courage, encouraging us to step out in faith when God calls.

Cultural and Emotional Considerations
The account acknowledges the emotional and cultural factors in leaving one's family, teaching us to be sensitive to these aspects in our own lives and decisions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's response to her family's request for a delay reflect her faith and trust in God's plan?

2. In what ways can family influence both positively and negatively impact our decisions to follow God's will?

3. How can we apply the principle of immediate obedience in our daily walk with God, especially when faced with difficult decisions?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that we are prioritizing God's timing over our own desires or cultural expectations?

5. How does Rebekah's account encourage us to have faith and courage when God calls us to step into the unknown? Can you think of a New Testament example that parallels this call to faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:58
- Rebekah's willingness to go immediately when asked reflects her faith and parallels the call of discipleship seen in the New Testament.

Genesis 31:55
- Laban's later interactions with Jacob show a pattern of familial negotiations and delays, providing insight into his character.

Luke 9:59-62
- Jesus' call to follow Him without delay echoes the urgency and commitment seen in Rebekah's decision to leave her family.