Genesis 24:36

KJV

And Sarah my master's wife bare a son to my master when she was old: and unto him hath he given all that he hath.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Sarah {H8283} my master's {H113} wife {H802} bare {H3205} a son {H1121} to my master {H113} when {H310} she was old {H2209}: and unto him hath he given {H5414} all that he hath.

Complete Jewish Bible

Sarah my master's wife bore my master a son when she was old, and he has given him everything he has.

Berean Standard Bible

My master’s wife Sarah has borne him a son in her old age, and my master has given him everything he owns.

American Standard Version

And Sarah my master’s wife bare a son to my master when she was old: and unto him hath he given all that he hath.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 24:36 features Abraham's chief servant recounting to Rebekah's family the miraculous birth of Isaac to Sarah in her advanced age and Abraham's complete transfer of all his possessions to Isaac. This declaration serves to establish Isaac's esteemed status, divine favor, and suitability as a husband for Rebekah, underscoring God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises to Abraham and his lineage.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal component of the extensive and highly strategic testimony delivered by Abraham's unnamed chief servant to Laban and Bethuel, Rebekah's brother and father, in Haran. The servant's solemn mission, meticulously detailed from [Genesis 24:1](/genesis/24-1 "Abraham's Instructions to His Servant") onward, was to secure a wife for Isaac from Abraham's own kindred, specifically avoiding the Canaanite women. His detailed account of Abraham's immense prosperity, God's manifest blessings, and Isaac's unique position as the sole heir is masterfully designed to convince Rebekah's family of God's profound favor upon Abraham and, by extension, upon Isaac. By presenting Isaac as divinely chosen and abundantly blessed, the servant aims to make the proposed marriage not merely desirable, but clearly divinely ordained and immensely beneficial for Rebekah and her family.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, lineage and inheritance were paramount, especially within patriarchal societies where family continuity and tribal identity were foundational. Marriage arrangements, often negotiated between families, were not merely personal unions but strategic alliances that secured social standing, economic stability, and the continuation of the family line. The emphasis on Isaac's sole inheritance in [Genesis 24:36](/genesis/24-36 "Isaac's Inheritance and Status") would have immediately conveyed his immense worth and the divine favor resting upon Abraham's household. Furthermore, Abraham's insistence on a wife from his own kindred (Mesopotamia) rather than the Canaanites reflects a crucial cultural and religious distinction, preserving the purity of the covenant line and avoiding assimilation into pagan practices, a theme evident throughout the patriarchal narratives in [Genesis](/genesis "The Book of Genesis").

* **Key Themes:** The broader narrative of Genesis, particularly chapters 12-25, is saturated with themes pertinent to [Isaac's story](/genesis/21-28 "The Life of Isaac"). This verse contributes significantly to the overarching theme of **Divine Providence**, showcasing God's meticulous orchestration of events to fulfill His promises, even in the seemingly mundane task of finding a wife. It underscores **Covenant Faithfulness**, as Isaac's miraculous birth and sole inheritance are direct manifestations of God's commitment to Abraham's lineage, promising a great nation and blessing to all families of the earth ([Genesis 12:2-3](/genesis/12-2-3 "God's Promises to Abraham")). The theme of **Heirship and Succession** is central, establishing Isaac as the legitimate inheritor of both Abraham's material wealth and, more crucially, the spiritual covenant. Finally, the narrative highlights **God's Blessing and Prosperity** as a tangible sign of His favor, demonstrating that Abraham's vast wealth, now transferred to Isaac, is a divine endowment intended to further God's redemptive plan.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **bare (Hebrew, _yâlad'_ H3205):** This primitive root signifies "to bear young" or "to beget," often used in the context of childbirth. In Sarah's case, its use emphasizes the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth, as it occurred beyond the natural childbearing years, highlighting divine intervention rather than natural procreation. It underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham and Sarah.
* **old (Hebrew, _ziqnâh'_ H2209):** This feminine noun directly translates to "old age." Its inclusion here is crucial, as it explicitly states Sarah's advanced age, reinforcing the human impossibility of her giving birth. This detail magnifies God's power and faithfulness, demonstrating that Isaac was truly a "child of promise" born by divine enablement, not human capability.
* **given (Hebrew, _nâthan'_ H5414):** A versatile primitive root meaning "to give," "to put," or "to make." Here, it denotes the complete transfer of Abraham's possessions and authority to Isaac. The breadth of its application in Hebrew signifies a comprehensive and intentional bestowal, establishing Isaac as the sole and legitimate heir of Abraham's vast estate and, implicitly, the covenant promises.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Sarah my master's wife bare a son to my master when she was old":** This opening clause immediately highlights the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth. Sarah's advanced age ([Genesis 18:11](/genesis/18-11 "Sarah's Age and Disbelief")) made natural conception impossible, emphasizing that Isaac's arrival was a direct act of divine intervention, fulfilling God's long-standing promise to Abraham ([Genesis 21:2](/genesis/21-2 "The Birth of Isaac")). This detail underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant, making Isaac a child of promise, not merely of natural descent.
* **"and unto him hath he given all that he hath":** This phrase, using the Hebrew *kol asher lo* ("all that is to him" or "all that he possesses"), signifies a complete and total transfer of Abraham's estate, wealth, and authority to Isaac. This declaration establishes Isaac as the sole and undisputed heir, not only of Abraham's vast material possessions but, more importantly, of the spiritual covenant and promises God had made with Abraham. This complete inheritance is further affirmed in [Genesis 25:5](/genesis/25-5 "Abraham Gives All to Isaac"), where it is stated that Abraham "gave all that he had unto Isaac," while giving gifts to his other sons by concubines.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to enhance its persuasive power and theological depth. The **Repetition** of "my master" (referring to Abraham) throughout the servant's speech, and specifically twice in this verse, serves to underscore Abraham's authority and the legitimacy of the servant's mission. This repetition also subtly elevates Isaac's status by associating him directly with such a revered figure. The use of **Emphasis** is clear in the phrase "when she was old," which highlights the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth, drawing attention to divine intervention over natural means. This serves to magnify God's power and faithfulness. Furthermore, the declaration that Abraham "hath he given all that he hath" utilizes **Hyperbole** to convey the totality of Isaac's inheritance, signifying not just material wealth but also the spiritual legacy and covenant promises. This comprehensive transfer of assets and authority also functions as **Foreshadowing**, hinting at Isaac's future role as the patriarch through whom God's covenant promises will continue.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 24:36 powerfully encapsulates several profound theological and thematic connections crucial to the biblical narrative. It stands as a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, demonstrating His miraculous power to bring forth life and fulfill His word even when human circumstances seem impossible. Isaac's birth to an aged Sarah and his subsequent comprehensive inheritance are not mere familial details but pivotal moments in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. This verse underscores the critical theme of covenant succession, establishing Isaac as the divinely appointed heir through whom the Abrahamic lineage and its accompanying blessings would continue. It also highlights the concept of divine provision and prosperity as a tangible sign of God's favor upon His chosen people, intended to facilitate the fulfillment of His grand purposes.

* [Genesis 18:14](/genesis/18-14 "Is Anything Too Hard for the Lord?")
* [Genesis 21:1-7](/genesis/21-1-7 "The Birth of Isaac and God's Faithfulness")
* [Genesis 25:5-6](/genesis/25-5-6 "Abraham's Inheritance to Isaac and Other Sons")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse serves as a profound reminder of God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises, even when circumstances seem humanly impossible. Sarah's advanced age made Isaac's birth a clear miracle, demonstrating God's power to bring about His will and fulfill His word. For believers today, this reinforces the truth that God is a promise-keeper, and we can trust in His provision and perfect timing for the fulfillment of His plans in our lives. It encourages us to look beyond natural limitations and rely on God's supernatural power to accomplish what He has purposed. Just as Isaac's inheritance secured his future and the covenant line, we too are heirs of spiritual blessings and promises in Christ, called to live in light of that divine inheritance, trusting God's ability to bring His purposes to fruition in and through us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the miraculous nature of Isaac's birth challenge our own understanding of God's power and timing in our lives?**
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to rely on human ability rather than God's supernatural provision?**
* **How does knowing God is a "promise-keeper" (as demonstrated in Isaac's story) encourage you in your current circumstances?**
* **What "inheritance" have you received, spiritually or otherwise, that you are called to steward faithfully for God's purposes?**

### FAQ
**Why was it so important for the servant to emphasize Isaac's inheritance to Rebekah's family?**

Answer: The servant's detailed account of Isaac's inheritance was crucial for several reasons. First, it established Isaac's material worth and stability, assuring Rebekah's family that she would be well-provided for and enter a household of significant means. Second, and more importantly, it signified Isaac's spiritual standing as the legitimate and sole heir of Abraham's covenant promises with God. This meant that Rebekah would marry into a family uniquely blessed by God, ensuring the continuation of the divine lineage and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan for a chosen people. It underscored that the proposed marriage was not merely a social arrangement but a divinely ordained union with immense spiritual significance, connecting Rebekah to the very heart of God's unfolding purposes for humanity, as revealed in [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "God's Call and Promises to Abraham").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaac, as the miraculously born son and sole heir of Abraham, profoundly prefigures Christ in several significant ways. Just as Isaac was the unique "child of promise" through whom the covenant line continued against all natural odds, Jesus Christ is the ultimate "Seed" of Abraham ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "The Seed Refers to Christ")) and the true Son through whom all God's promises find their "Yes" and "Amen" ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "All God's Promises are 'Yes' in Christ")). Isaac's complete inheritance of Abraham's possessions points to Christ as the ultimate heir of all things ([Hebrews 1:2](/hebrews/1-2 "Christ as Heir of All Things")), having inherited a name more excellent than the angels ([Hebrews 1:4](/hebrews/1-4 "Christ's Superiority to Angels")). Moreover, through Christ, believers become spiritual heirs of Abraham's blessing ([Galatians 3:29](/galatians/3-29 "Heirs According to the Promise")) and co-heirs with Christ, inheriting the promises of God's eternal kingdom and all spiritual blessings in the heavenly places ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Spiritual Blessings in Christ")). Thus, Isaac's story of miraculous birth and comprehensive inheritance serves as a powerful foreshadowing of the greater Son, Jesus, and the spiritual inheritance available to all who believe in Him.

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 25:5

And Abraham gave all that he had unto Isaac.

Genesis 21:10

Wherefore she said unto Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, [even] with Isaac.

Genesis 21:1

¶ And the LORD visited Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did unto Sarah as he had spoken.

Genesis 21:7

And she said, Who would have said unto Abraham, that Sarah should have given children suck? for I have born [him] a son in his old age.

Genesis 18:10

And he said, I will certainly return unto thee according to the time of life; and, lo, Sarah thy wife shall have a son. And Sarah heard [it] in the tent door, which [was] behind him.

Genesis 18:14

Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.

Genesis 17:15

¶ And God said unto Abraham, As for Sarai thy wife, thou shalt not call her name Sarai, but Sarah [shall] her name [be].