Genesis 24:64

And when Rebekah looked up and saw Isaac, she got down from her camel

Study Bible

And Rebekah
The name "Rebekah" in Hebrew is "Rivkah," which means "to tie firmly" or "a noose." This name is significant as it reflects her role in the narrative as one who is bound to Isaac in marriage, forming a foundational tie in the lineage of the Israelites. Rebekah's introduction here highlights her as a pivotal character in God's covenantal plan, chosen to be the matriarch of a great nation.

lifted up her eyes
This phrase is often used in Scripture to denote a moment of realization or significant observation. In the Hebrew context, "lifting up one's eyes" can imply a spiritual awakening or an encounter with destiny. Rebekah's action signifies her readiness to embrace the future God has prepared for her, as she is about to meet her husband, Isaac, for the first time.

and when she saw Isaac
The act of seeing in biblical terms often goes beyond mere physical sight; it implies understanding and recognition. Rebekah's sight of Isaac is not just a visual encounter but a moment of divine appointment. Isaac, whose name means "laughter," represents the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham and Sarah. This meeting is orchestrated by God, underscoring His sovereignty in guiding the lives of His chosen people.

she dismounted from her camel
Camels were valuable assets in ancient times, symbolizing wealth and status. Rebekah's dismounting signifies humility and respect, as she prepares to meet Isaac. This action can be seen as a gesture of submission to God's will and the beginning of her new role as Isaac's wife. It reflects the cultural practices of the time, where meeting one's betrothed was a moment of reverence and anticipation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
A key figure in this passage, Rebekah is the daughter of Bethuel and the future wife of Isaac. Her actions in this verse demonstrate her readiness and willingness to meet Isaac, whom she has been chosen to marry.

2. Isaac
The son of Abraham and Sarah, Isaac is the heir to God's promises to Abraham. His meeting with Rebekah is significant as it continues the lineage through which God's covenant will be fulfilled.

3. Camel
The mode of transportation for Rebekah, symbolizing the long journey she undertook to meet Isaac. Camels were a common means of travel in the ancient Near East, indicating the wealth and status of Abraham's household.

4. The Journey
This event is part of a larger account where Abraham's servant is sent to find a wife for Isaac, emphasizing God's providence and guidance in fulfilling His promises.

5. The Meeting
The moment Rebekah sees Isaac marks the culmination of the servant's mission and the beginning of a new chapter in the Abrahamic covenant.

Teaching Points

God's Providence
This passage illustrates God's providential care in the lives of His people. Just as God guided the servant to Rebekah, He guides us in our life decisions.

Faith and Obedience
Rebekah's willingness to leave her home and family to marry Isaac is a testament to her faith and obedience. We are called to trust and obey God's leading, even when it requires significant change or sacrifice.

Divine Appointments
The meeting between Isaac and Rebekah was divinely orchestrated. We should be attentive to the divine appointments in our lives, recognizing that God often works through ordinary events.

Preparation for God's Promises
Just as Rebekah prepared herself to meet Isaac, we should prepare our hearts and lives to receive God's promises and fulfill His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's response upon seeing Isaac reflect her character and faith? How can we apply this in our own lives when facing new and unknown situations?

2. In what ways does this passage demonstrate God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises? Can you identify a time in your life when you experienced God's faithfulness?

3. How does the servant's journey to find a wife for Isaac illustrate the importance of prayer and seeking God's guidance? How can we incorporate this practice into our daily decision-making?

4. What can we learn from Rebekah's willingness to leave her family and homeland? How does this relate to Jesus' call to leave everything and follow Him?

5. How does the meeting between Isaac and Rebekah serve as a reminder of God's timing and provision? How can we cultivate patience and trust in God's timing in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:12-14
The servant's prayer for guidance in finding a wife for Isaac highlights God's involvement in the process, showing His faithfulness in answering prayers.

Genesis 24:67
This verse describes Isaac taking Rebekah as his wife, which fulfills the servant's mission and continues the Abrahamic lineage.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the Lord for guidance parallels the servant's reliance on God to lead him to Rebekah.

Hebrews 11:8-9
The faith of Abraham and his descendants, including Isaac, is celebrated, showing the importance of faith in God's promises.