“And the servant took ten camels of the camels of his master, and departed; for all the goods of his master were in his hand: and he arose, and went to Mesopotamia, unto the city of Nahor.”
Context: Genesis 24 records the account of Abraham sending his servant to find a wife for his son Isaac. This verse marks the beginning of the journey of Abraham’s servant to Mesopotamia to find a suitable wife from among his relatives.
The servant’s mission: Abraham’s servant is entrusted with the task of finding a wife for Isaac. Abraham instructs him not to choose a wife from the Canaanites but to go to his homeland in Mesopotamia and find a wife from his relatives. This mission was of utmost importance because through Isaac, the covenant promises of God were to be fulfilled.
The camels: The servant took ten camels from his master’s herd for his journey. Camels were valuable animals in ancient times and were used for transportation and trade. The mention of the camels highlights the wealth and resources at Abraham’s disposal and also indicates that the servant had the means to undertake a long and arduous journey.
The goods of his master: The verse states that “all the goods of his master were in his hand.” This suggests that the servant carried valuable gifts and provisions from Abraham to present to the family of the potential bride. This demonstrates the servant’s responsibility and the importance placed on finding a suitable wife for Isaac.
The city of Nahor: The servant’s destination is the city of Nahor, which was the hometown of Abraham’s brother. Abraham desired a wife for Isaac from among his own relatives rather than from the Canaanites. Nahor was located in Mesopotamia, in the region that corresponds to present-day Iraq. This verse sets the stage for the servant’s arrival in Nahor and the events that follow.
Overall, Genesis 24:10 introduces us to the beginning of the servant’s journey to find a wife for Isaac. The passage showcases Abraham’s trust in his servant and his commitment to fulfilling God’s covenant promises. It also highlights the servant’s preparedness, carrying the wealth and goods of his master as he embarks on this important mission.
