Genesis 24:44

And she say to me, Both drink thou, and I will also draw for thy camels: [let] the same [be] the woman whom the LORD hath appointed out for my master's son.

And she say {H559} to me, Both drink {H8354} thou, and I will also draw {H7579} for thy camels {H1581}: let the same be the woman {H802} whom the LORD {H3068} hath appointed out {H3198} for my master's {H113} son {H1121}.

If she answers, "Yes, drink; and I will water your camels as well," then let her be the woman you intend for my master's son.'

and she replies, ‘Drink, and I will draw water for your camels as well,’ may she be the woman the LORD has appointed for my master’s son.

and she shall say to me, Both drink thou, and I will also draw for thy camels: let the same be the woman whom Jehovah hath appointed for my master’s son.

Commentary

Genesis 24:44 captures a pivotal moment in Abraham's servant's mission to find a wife for Isaac. This verse reveals the specific sign the servant prayed for and saw fulfilled by Rebekah, confirming her as God's chosen bride for his master's son.

Context

This verse is part of a longer narrative in Genesis 24, detailing Abraham's concern for Isaac's future and his desire for Isaac to marry a woman from his own people, not the Canaanites. Abraham sent his most trusted servant on a crucial mission, making him swear an oath to fulfill it (Genesis 24:3). Upon arriving at the well outside Nahor, the servant, demonstrating remarkable faith, prayed for a very specific sign: that the woman appointed by the LORD would not only offer him water but also generously offer to draw water for his ten camels (Genesis 24:14). Rebekah's immediate and abundant response perfectly matched this prayer, as recounted by the servant to her family.

Key Themes

  • Divine Providence and Guidance: The verse highlights God's active involvement in human affairs, specifically in guiding the servant to Rebekah. The phrase "the LORD hath appointed out" underscores the conviction that this union was divinely orchestrated, not a random occurrence. This demonstrates how God can direct the paths of those who acknowledge Him.
  • Faith and Specific Prayer: The servant's bold and precise prayer is central. He didn't just pray for a wife for Isaac, but for a clear, observable sign that would leave no doubt about God's choice. His reliance on God's direction is a powerful example for believers seeking guidance in major life decisions.
  • Hospitality and Character: Rebekah's actions, fulfilling the servant's prayer, revealed her selfless and generous character. Drawing water for ten thirsty camels was no small feat; it required significant effort and willingness to serve, qualities deemed essential for a prospective matriarch.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "appointed out" translates the Hebrew verb יָכַח (yakhach), which can mean "to decide," "to appoint," or "to prove." In this context, it strongly conveys the idea of God's definitive selection and designation. The act of drawing water for camels, especially ten of them (implied from Genesis 24:10), represents a substantial act of service and hospitality, far beyond a simple courtesy.

Practical Application

Genesis 24:44 offers enduring lessons for believers today:

  • Trusting God's Guidance: It encourages us to trust in God's sovereign plan, especially in significant life choices like marriage or career. Just as Abraham's servant sought God's specific guidance, we can bring our requests before the Lord with faith.
  • The Power of Specific Prayer: The servant's example teaches the value of praying with specificity and then diligently observing how God answers. While God may not always provide such overt signs, He promises to lead us through His Word and Spirit.
  • Character Matters: Rebekah's character, demonstrated through her spontaneous and abundant hospitality, was a key indicator of her suitability. This reminds us that inner qualities like generosity, kindness, and willingness to serve are highly valued by God and are essential for healthy relationships and effective living.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 24:14

    And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: [let the same be] she [that] thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master.

  • Isaiah 32:8

    But the liberal deviseth liberal things; and by liberal things shall he stand.

  • Proverbs 19:14

    ¶ House and riches [are] the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife [is] from the LORD.

  • 1 Peter 3:8

    ¶ Finally, [be ye] all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, [be] pitiful, [be] courteous:

  • Hebrews 13:2

    Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

  • Genesis 2:22

    And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.

  • 1 Timothy 2:10

    But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
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