Genesis 24:32

KJV

And the man came into the house: and he ungirded his camels, and gave straw and provender for the camels, and water to wash his feet, and the men's feet that [were] with him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the man {H376} came {H935} into the house {H1004}: and he ungirded {H6605} his camels {H1581}, and gave {H5414} straw {H8401} and provender {H4554} for the camels {H1581}, and water {H4325} to wash {H7364} his feet {H7272}, and the men's {H582} feet {H7272} that were with him.

Complete Jewish Bible

So the man went inside, and while the camels were being unloaded and provided straw and fodder, water was brought for him to wash his feet and the feet of the men with him.

Berean Standard Bible

So the man came to the house, and the camels were unloaded. Straw and feed were brought to the camels, and water to wash his feet and the feet of his companions.

American Standard Version

And the man came into the house, and he ungirded the camels; and he gave straw and provender for the camels, and water to wash his feet and the feet of the men that were with him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 24:32 depicts Laban's immediate and comprehensive hospitality extended to Abraham's servant and his retinue upon their arrival in Nahor. This pivotal moment showcases the profound cultural importance of ancient Near Eastern hospitality, detailing the practical provisions made for both the weary travelers and their valuable camels, thereby setting the stage for the crucial discussions that would ultimately lead to Rebekah's marriage to Isaac and the continuation of God's covenant promises.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture in the narrative of Abraham's search for a wife for his son, Isaac. Immediately preceding it, Abraham's unnamed servant has arrived at the city of Nahor (also known as Haran), following divine guidance. He encounters Rebekah at a well, where her extraordinary kindness in offering water to him and his ten camels confirms her as the divinely appointed bride. After the servant presents her with valuable gifts, Rebekah rushes home to inform her family. Laban, her brother, hearing of the servant's arrival and seeing the gifts, promptly comes out to meet him, leading directly to the scene described in this verse. The narrative flow emphasizes the swiftness and eagerness of Laban's welcome, which is crucial for the unfolding of God's plan.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Hospitality was a sacred duty and a cornerstone of ancient Near Eastern society. Travelers faced arduous journeys over vast, often dangerous, and arid landscapes, making the provision of food, water, and shelter not merely a courtesy but a necessity for survival. A host's honor was intricately tied to their generosity. Camels, as depicted in this passage, were invaluable assets for long-distance travel, carrying heavy loads and serving as a measure of wealth. Their well-being was paramount. Foot washing was a common and essential act of hospitality, as travelers wore open sandals on dusty roads, and it offered immediate physical relief and symbolized a warm welcome. Laban's actions here reflect the highest standards of this cultural norm, demonstrating respect and care for his unexpected guests.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Providence and Guidance**, as Laban's welcoming actions are part of God's intricate plan to lead Abraham's servant to Rebekah, fulfilling the servant's prayer for a clear sign from God (cf. [Genesis 24:12-14](/genesis/24-12-14 "Abraham's Servant's Prayer")). Secondly, it highlights the **Virtue of Hospitality**, portraying it not just as a cultural custom but as a divinely approved practice that facilitates God's purposes. This generosity is a precursor to the formal negotiations for Rebekah's hand. Thirdly, the careful attention to both the men and their animals reinforces the theme of **Stewardship and Compassion**, reflecting a holistic care for all of God's creation. Finally, the entire episode, including Laban's welcome, is a crucial step in the **Covenant Fulfillment** promised to Abraham, ensuring the continuation of his lineage through Isaac and Rebekah, from whom the promised seed would eventually come (cf. [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "God's Covenant with Abraham")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **House (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** Refers to a dwelling, but in a broader sense, it encompasses the household, family, and even the lineage. In this context, Laban bringing the man "into the house" signifies not merely physical shelter but an invitation into the security and fellowship of the family unit, a crucial step in ancient hospitality. It implies a deeper level of welcome than just a temporary resting place.
* **Ungirded (Hebrew, _pâthach'_):** Literally means "to open wide" or "to loosen." Here, it specifically refers to the act of removing the heavy saddles, packs, and harnesses from the camels. This was a significant act of relief for the animals after a long journey, allowing them to rest unburdened. Laban's personal involvement in this laborious task underscores his exceptional commitment to hospitality and care for the valuable beasts.
* **Provender (Hebrew, _miçpôwʼ'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to collect," this term refers to prepared or mixed fodder, a nourishing and specific meal for the animals, distinct from mere straw. The provision of "straw and provender" indicates a comprehensive and thoughtful approach to the camels' well-being, recognizing their vital role in the journey and their need for proper sustenance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the man came into the house":** This phrase marks the successful culmination of Laban's invitation. "The man" refers to Abraham's servant, the primary agent of Abraham's mission. His entry into Laban's "house" (H1004, _bayith_) signifies the formal commencement of hospitality, moving from the public space of the well to the private, secure realm of the family, where crucial discussions and negotiations would take place.
* **"and he ungirded his camels":** This highlights Laban's personal initiative and immediate attention to the needs of the animals. The act of "ungirding" (H6605, _pâthach_) the camels involved removing their heavy burdens, a necessary and laborious task after a long journey. This demonstrates a deep understanding of the practicalities of travel and a commitment to the well-being of the entire entourage, including the valuable beasts of burden.
* **"and gave straw and provender for the camels":** This clause details the specific provisions made for the animals. "Straw" (H8401, _teben_) served as bedding or roughage, while "provender" (H4554, _miçpôwʼ_) indicates a more substantial, prepared feed. This comprehensive care for the camels underscores their immense value and the host's thoroughness in fulfilling the duties of hospitality, ensuring the animals were properly rested and nourished.
* **"and water to wash his feet, and the men's feet that [were] with him":** This final clause addresses the immediate needs of the human travelers. Providing "water" (H4325, _mayim_) for "foot washing" (H7364, _râchats_) was a customary and essential act of ancient hospitality, offering immediate relief from the dust and fatigue of travel. Laban's provision for "his feet" (the servant's) and "the men's feet that were with him" (H582, _ʼĕnôwsh_) demonstrates a thorough and inclusive welcome, extending care to the entire group, signifying respect and genuine concern for their comfort.

#### Literary Devices
The passage effectively employs **Detailed Description** to paint a vivid picture of ancient Near Eastern hospitality. Each action—ungirding camels, providing fodder, washing feet—is meticulously described, emphasizing the thoroughness and significance of Laban's welcome. This detailed portrayal elevates seemingly mundane acts into profound expressions of care. The use of **Repetition**, particularly of "camels" and "feet," underscores the dual focus of hospitality: attending to both the human travelers and their essential animals. Furthermore, the scene functions as **Foreshadowing**, setting a tone of welcome and cooperation that is essential for the successful negotiation of Rebekah's marriage, which is the ultimate purpose of the servant's journey. The swift and comprehensive nature of Laban's actions also serves as a subtle form of **Divine Affirmation**, indicating that the servant's mission is indeed blessed and guided by God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 24:32 offers a profound illustration of the biblical virtue of hospitality, which is not merely a social custom but a theological imperative reflecting God's own welcoming nature towards humanity. Laban's immediate and comprehensive care for Abraham's servant and his animals exemplifies a holistic approach to welcoming the stranger, treating them with dignity and meeting their fundamental needs. This act of kindness, while seemingly a natural human response, is intricately woven into God's sovereign plan, demonstrating how the Lord orchestrates ordinary human interactions to fulfill His extraordinary purposes, specifically in guiding the servant to Rebekah and ensuring the continuation of the covenant lineage. The diligence shown towards the camels also subtly highlights a broader biblical principle of responsible stewardship over creation and compassion for all living beings, reflecting the Creator's care for His world.

* [Romans 12:13](/romans/12-13 "Romans 12:13 - Practice Hospitality")
* [Hebrews 13:2](/hebrews/13-2 "Hebrews 13:2 - Do Not Neglect Hospitality")
* [Matthew 25:35](/matthew/25-35 "Matthew 25:35 - Welcoming the Stranger")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 24:32 serves as a powerful and practical blueprint for cultivating a spirit of genuine hospitality in our lives today. Laban's actions challenge us to move beyond mere politeness to a proactive and comprehensive attentiveness to the needs of others, particularly those who are weary, vulnerable, or new to our sphere. His example teaches us that true welcome involves practical provision—whether it's offering a meal, a listening ear, or simply a comfortable space—and extends even to caring for what is important to our guests, be it their possessions, their burdens, or even their pets. In a world often characterized by busyness and self-focus, this passage calls us to intentionally create spaces of rest, refreshment, and belonging. Moreover, it reminds us that our acts of kindness, however small they may seem, can be significant steps in God's larger, unfolding plan, contributing to divine purposes we may not even fully comprehend at the time. How might God be using our simple acts of hospitality to advance His kingdom today?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Laban's immediate and comprehensive hospitality challenge my own approach to welcoming others, especially those who are strangers or in need?**
* **What practical steps can I take to extend more genuine and holistic care to those who enter my sphere of influence, mirroring Laban's attention to both people and their accompanying needs (like the camels)?**
* **In what ways might my seemingly ordinary acts of kindness be part of God's larger, sovereign plan, even if I don't see the full picture immediately?**

### FAQ
**Why was foot washing so important for travelers in ancient times?**

Answer: In the ancient Near East, travel was arduous and often undertaken on foot or by animal over unpaved, dusty, and hot roads. People wore open-toed sandals, meaning their feet would become extremely dirty, tired, and often sore. Providing water for foot washing (as seen in [Genesis 18:4](/genesis/18-4 "Abraham's Hospitality to Heavenly Visitors") and [Luke 7:44](/luke/7-44 "Jesus and the Sinful Woman")) was not just a common courtesy but a practical necessity. It offered immediate physical relief and symbolized a warm, respectful welcome from the host, signifying their genuine care for the guest's comfort and well-being. It was a foundational act of hospitality, demonstrating honor and attentiveness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The seemingly mundane act of Laban's hospitality in Genesis 24:32 is a vital link in the chain of God's redemptive history, ultimately pointing to Christ. This welcoming act facilitated the crucial union of Isaac and Rebekah, ensuring the continuation of the promised seed through whom all nations would be blessed, as God had covenanted with Abraham (cf. [Genesis 22:18](/genesis/22-18 "God's Blessing on Abraham's Seed")). The lineage established through this marriage, carefully preserved in biblical genealogies, directly leads to the birth of Jesus Christ, the ultimate "seed" who fulfills all of God's promises (cf. [Matthew 1:1-2](/matthew/1-1-2 "Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Christ, the Seed of Abraham")). Thus, Laban's simple yet profound act of care for a weary traveler was a divinely orchestrated step in the unfolding plan for the Incarnation, demonstrating how God uses ordinary human kindness and cultural customs to fulfill His extraordinary covenant promises for the salvation of humanity through the person and work of Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 43:24

And the man brought the men into Joseph's house, and gave [them] water, and they washed their feet; and he gave their asses provender.

Judges 19:21

So he brought him into his house, and gave provender unto the asses: and they washed their feet, and did eat and drink.

Genesis 18:4

Let a little water, I pray you, be fetched, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree:

Genesis 19:2

And he said, Behold now, my lords, turn in, I pray you, into your servant's house, and tarry all night, and wash your feet, and ye shall rise up early, and go on your ways. And they said, Nay; but we will abide in the street all night.

Luke 7:44

And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped [them] with the hairs of her head.

1 Timothy 5:10

Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.

John 13:4

He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself.