Rebekah, a significant matriarch in the biblical narrative, is introduced in the Book of Genesis as the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Nahor and Milcah. Nahor was Abraham's brother, making Rebekah a member of Abraham's extended family. This familial connection is crucial in the unfolding of God's covenantal promises to Abraham and his descendants.

Family Background

Rebekah's family resided in Paddan-aram, a region in Mesopotamia. Her father, Bethuel, is mentioned briefly in the biblical text, but it is her brother Laban who plays a more prominent role in the narrative. Laban's involvement in Rebekah's life and later in the life of Jacob, Rebekah's son, highlights the interconnectedness of the patriarchal family.

The genealogy of Rebekah is outlined in Genesis 22:20-23, which states: "Some time later, Abraham was told, 'Milcah has also borne sons to your brother Nahor: Uz the firstborn, his brother Buz, Kemuel (the father of Aram), Kesed, Hazo, Pildash, Jidlaph, and Bethuel.' And Bethuel became the father of Rebekah." This lineage establishes Rebekah's place within the broader narrative of God's chosen people.

The Proposal

The proposal for Rebekah to become Isaac's wife is a pivotal moment in the Genesis account, demonstrating God's providence and the continuation of His covenant with Abraham. In Genesis 24, Abraham, now advanced in years, sends his servant to his homeland to find a wife for his son Isaac, ensuring that Isaac does not marry a Canaanite woman. The servant, often identified as Eliezer, embarks on this mission with a clear directive and a prayerful heart.

Upon reaching the city of Nahor, the servant prays for a sign to identify the right woman for Isaac. In Genesis 24:14, he prays, "May it be that when I say to a young woman, ‘Please let down your jar that I may drink,’ and she replies, ‘Drink, and I will water your camels as well’—let her be the one You have appointed for Your servant Isaac." Rebekah's actions fulfill this prayer, as she not only offers water to the servant but also to his camels, demonstrating her kindness and hospitality.

The servant then learns of Rebekah's family and their connection to Abraham, recognizing God's hand in the encounter. He presents gifts to Rebekah and her family, including jewelry and clothing, as a customary part of the betrothal process. The servant explains his mission and the divine guidance he received, prompting Rebekah's family to acknowledge the Lord's will in the matter.

In Genesis 24:50-51, Laban and Bethuel respond, "This is from the LORD; we have no choice in the matter. Rebekah is here before you. Take her and go, and let her become the wife of your master’s son, as the LORD has decreed." Their consent reflects an understanding of divine providence and the importance of aligning with God's purposes.

Rebekah's willingness to leave her family and journey to a foreign land underscores her faith and obedience. When asked if she will go with the servant, she responds simply, "I will go" (Genesis 24:58). This decision marks the beginning of her role as Isaac's wife and the mother of Jacob and Esau, furthering the lineage through which God's promises to Abraham would be fulfilled.

Rebekah's account, from her family background to the proposal and her subsequent marriage to Isaac, is a testament to God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through the generations. Her life exemplifies the virtues of faith, hospitality, and obedience, qualities that resonate throughout the biblical narrative.