“And they sent away Rebekah their sister, and her nurse, and Abraham’s servant, and his men.”
This verse is part of the narrative in Genesis 24 that recounts the story of how Isaac, the son of Abraham, obtained a wife named Rebekah. In this particular verse, we witness the departure of Rebekah from her family to accompany Abraham’s servant and his men to meet Isaac.
To fully understand the significance of this verse, it’s important to examine the context. In the preceding verses, we learn that Abraham was concerned about finding a suitable wife for his son Isaac. He did not want Isaac to marry one of the Canaanite women among whom they lived. Instead, Abraham desired a wife for Isaac from his own family, specifically from his relatives in Mesopotamia.
Abraham sent his servant, who is not named in the text but traditionally believed to be Eliezer, to find a wife for Isaac. The servant journeyed to the city of Nahor in Mesopotamia and encountered Rebekah at the well. He recognized her as a potential wife for Isaac because of her kindness and willingness to draw water for him and his camels.
After negotiations with Rebekah’s family, they agreed to let Rebekah marry Isaac. In verse 59, we see the moment when Rebekah’s family bids her farewell. They send away Rebekah, her nurse (a trusted caretaker or companion), the servant (Eliezer), and his men. This departure marks the beginning of Rebekah’s journey to meet Isaac and become his wife.
The significance of this verse lies in the obedience and faithfulness displayed by Rebekah and her family. Despite the emotional attachment and the potential challenges of sending their daughter away, they honored their commitment and entrusted her to the servant of Abraham, trusting in God’s guidance and provision. This act exemplifies the importance of faith and trust in God’s plan and the belief that He will work out His purposes through our lives.
Additionally, this verse highlights the theme of divine providence. The entire story of Rebekah’s encounter with the servant, her family’s agreement, and her subsequent journey to marry Isaac unfolds under the guidance and intervention of God. It emphasizes God’s faithfulness in orchestrating events to fulfill His promises and establish the lineage through which the Messiah would eventually come.
In conclusion, Genesis 24:59 captures the departure of Rebekah from her family to join Isaac as his wife. It showcases the obedience and trust displayed by Rebekah and her family, as well as the overarching theme of divine providence throughout the narrative. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and surrendering to God’s plan, even when it involves letting go of our own desires and trusting in His guidance.
