“And when she had done giving him drink, she said, I will draw water for thy camels also, until they have done drinking.”
Genesis 24:19 is part of the narrative of Abraham’s servant, who was sent by Abraham to find a wife for his son Isaac. In this particular verse, the servant arrives at a well in the city of Nahor and encounters Rebekah, a young woman who demonstrates hospitality and kindness towards him and his camels.
The context:of this verse is essential for understanding its significance. Abraham’s servant had been entrusted with the task of finding a suitable wife for Isaac, but he was uncertain about how to identify the right woman. He prayed to God, asking for a sign to guide him in his search. His prayer included a request that the woman who offered him and his camels water would be the chosen one.
When Rebekah arrives at the well and provides water to the servant, she not only fulfils his prayer but goes beyond his expectations. After giving the servant a drink, she voluntarily offers to draw water for his camels as well. This act of going above and beyond what was asked of her demonstrates her generosity, compassion, and servant-heartedness.
Rebekah’s actions in Genesis 24:19 reveal several admirable qualities. First, her willingness to serve shows her humility and selflessness. Drawing water for the camels was a laborious task, as camels can drink large quantities of water. Yet, Rebekah willingly undertakes this task without hesitation.
Second, Rebekah’s actions display her hospitality. In the ancient Near East, offering water to travelers was a customary act of kindness and a sign of hospitality. By offering water to the servant and his camels, Rebekah exemplifies the cultural value of hospitality, showing care and concern for strangers.
Finally, Rebekah’s act of drawing water for the camels exhibits her industriousness and hard work. It was no small feat to draw water for numerous thirsty camels, but Rebekah does so diligently, highlighting her strong work ethic.
This passage not only portrays Rebekah as a woman of noble character but also highlights God’s providence and faithfulness in answering the servant’s prayer. God orchestrates circumstances to guide the servant to Rebekah, who exemplifies the qualities he was seeking in a wife for Isaac.
Overall, Genesis 24:19 teaches us important lessons about kindness, hospitality, humility, and diligence. Rebekah’s actions serve as an inspiration for believers to demonstrate these qualities in our own lives and to trust in God’s guidance as we seek to honour Him in our relationships and interactions with others.
