Rebekah, a significant matriarch in the biblical narrative, is introduced in the context of her family background, which plays a crucial role in the unfolding of the Abrahamic covenant. Her family is first mentioned in Genesis 24, where Abraham sends his servant to find a wife for his son Isaac from his own kin. This mission leads the servant to the household of Bethuel, Rebekah's father, in the region of Paddan Aram, also known as Aram Naharaim.

Family Lineage and Background

Rebekah is the daughter of Bethuel, who is a descendant of Nahor, Abraham's brother. This connection is significant as it maintains the familial line through which God's promises to Abraham are to be fulfilled. Genesis 22:20-23 provides a genealogical account: "Some time later, Abraham was told, 'Milcah has also borne sons to your brother Nahor: Uz the firstborn, Buz his brother, Kemuel (the father of Aram), Kesed, Hazo, Pildash, Jidlaph, and Bethuel.' And Bethuel became the father of Rebekah."

Rebekah's mother is not named in the biblical text, but her presence is implied in the narrative. The household is characterized by its adherence to familial and cultural traditions, as seen in the negotiation and blessing of Rebekah's marriage to Isaac.

Cultural and Religious Context

The household of Rebekah's mother is situated in a region known for its polytheistic practices, yet the family maintains a connection to the monotheistic faith of Abraham. This is evident in the servant's prayerful approach and the family's acknowledgment of God's hand in the arrangement of Rebekah's marriage. Genesis 24:50-51 records the response of Laban and Bethuel: "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."

Role in the Abrahamic Covenant

Rebekah's transition from her mother's household to that of Isaac is pivotal in the continuation of the Abrahamic covenant. Her willingness to leave her family and journey to Canaan reflects her faith and obedience, qualities that align with the covenantal promises. Genesis 24:58-60 describes this moment: "So they called Rebekah and asked her, 'Will you go with this man?' 'I will go,' she replied. So they sent their sister Rebekah on her way, along with her nurse and Abraham’s servant and his men. And they blessed Rebekah and said to her, 'Our sister, may you become the mother of thousands of ten thousands. May your offspring possess the gates of their enemies.'"

Significance in Biblical Narrative

Rebekah's mother's household serves as a backdrop for the divine orchestration of events that ensure the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham. The household's role in the narrative underscores the importance of family lineage and faithfulness to God's plan. Rebekah's journey from her mother's home to become Isaac's wife marks a critical juncture in the biblical account, as she becomes the mother of Jacob and Esau, furthering the lineage through which the nation of Israel would emerge.