Genesis 24:47

KJV

And I asked her, and said, Whose daughter [art] thou? And she said, The daughter of Bethuel, Nahor's son, whom Milcah bare unto him: and I put the earring upon her face, and the bracelets upon her hands.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I asked {H7592} her, and said {H559}, Whose daughter {H1323} art thou? And she said {H559}, The daughter {H1323} of Bethuel {H1328}, Nahor's {H5152} son {H1121}, whom Milcah {H4435} bare {H3205} unto him: and I put {H7760} the earring {H5141} upon her face {H639}, and the bracelets {H6781} upon her hands {H3027}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"I asked her, 'Whose daughter are you?' and she answered, 'The daughter of B'tu'el son of Nachor, whom Milkah bore to him.'Then I put the ring on her nose and the bracelets on her wrists,

Berean Standard Bible

Then I asked her, ‘Whose daughter are you?’ She replied, ‘The daughter of Bethuel son of Nahor, whom Milcah bore to him.’ So I put the ring on her nose and the bracelets on her wrists.

American Standard Version

And I asked her, and said, Whose daughter art thou? And she said, The daughter of Bethuel, Nahor’s son, whom Milcah bare unto him: and I put the ring upon her nose, and the bracelets upon her hands.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 24:47 captures a pivotal moment in Abraham's servant's divinely guided quest for Isaac's wife, confirming Rebekah's identity as a direct descendant of Abraham's kin. The servant's diligent inquiry and Rebekah's precise articulation of her lineage—identifying herself as the daughter of Bethuel, Nahor's son, whom Milcah bore unto him—solidify the divine confirmation of God's meticulous providence. This immediate confirmation is followed by the servant's presentation of significant betrothal gifts, an earring and bracelets, signifying the initiation of a serious marital agreement and underscoring God's faithful guidance in securing the covenantal line.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the extended narrative of [Genesis 24](/genesis/24 "Genesis 24 - The Quest for Isaac's Bride"), which details Abraham's solemn mission to secure a wife for his son Isaac from his own kindred in Mesopotamia, rather than from the Canaanites among whom they dwelt. The preceding verses establish the servant's departure, his arrival at Nahor's city, and his fervent prayer for a clear sign to identify God's chosen woman. Rebekah's appearance and her generous act of offering water to the servant and his camels, even drawing water for all ten camels, precisely fulfilled the specific sign the servant had requested ([Genesis 24:12-14](/genesis/24-12-14 "Genesis 24:12-14 - The Servant's Prayer for a Sign")). Having witnessed this miraculous confirmation, the servant's next logical and crucial step, as depicted in [Genesis 24:47](/genesis/24-47 "Genesis 24:47 - Rebekah's Lineage Confirmed"), was to ascertain her lineage to ensure she was indeed from Abraham's family, thereby fulfilling the patriarch's strict instructions and oath. Her response directly validates the divine leading, setting the stage for the formal marriage negotiations.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Marriage in the ancient Near East was not merely a romantic union but a strategic alliance between families, often involving extensive negotiations and the exchange of gifts. The purity of lineage was paramount, especially for a patriarchal family like Abraham's, whose very identity and future were tied to the divine covenant. Abraham's insistence on a bride from his own kin highlights the cultural importance of endogamy—marrying within the family or tribe—to preserve cultural, religious, and genetic continuity. The servant's actions reflect the customs of the time: a trusted servant acting as an emissary, the significance of hospitality (offering water), and the customary presentation of valuable gifts as a sign of serious intent and a preliminary step towards betrothal. These gifts, known as *mohar* or bride-price, were not simply personal adornments but often substantial tokens of wealth and commitment, signifying the suitor's earnestness and ability to provide.

* **Key Themes:** Genesis 24:47 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Providence and Guidance**, illustrating God's active, meticulous, and often miraculous involvement in the lives of His covenant people. The detailed fulfillment of the servant's prayer and the precise confirmation of Rebekah's lineage underscore God's sovereign hand in directing human affairs, particularly those crucial to His redemptive plan. Another significant theme is the **Covenantal Significance of Lineage**. The careful selection of Isaac's bride from Abraham's own family highlights the importance of preserving the purity of the covenantal line, through which God's promises of land, nation, and blessing would be passed down ([Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "Genesis 12:1-3 - The Abrahamic Covenant")). The servant's **Faith and Diligence** in seeking God's will, coupled with his practical actions, also serves as a model, demonstrating that divine guidance often works in conjunction with human responsibility and careful discernment. The narrative also subtly introduces the theme of **Redemptive History**, as this union is vital for the continuation of the seed through whom the ultimate Redeemer would come.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Genesis 24:47 meticulously records the servant's crucial inquiry and Rebekah's confirming response, immediately followed by the presentation of valuable gifts. This sequence is not merely a transactional account but a deeply significant moment, culturally and theologically, underscoring the servant's faithful adherence to his mission and the swift recognition of divine favor.

#### Key Word Analysis

* **Daughter (Hebrew, _bath'_ - H1323):** Derived from the root meaning "to build" (as feminine of `bên`, "son"), this term signifies not only a female offspring but also, in a wider sense, one who contributes to the building or continuation of a family line. In this context, Rebekah's identification as "the daughter of Bethuel" is paramount, establishing her direct familial connection to Abraham's kin and thus confirming her suitability as a bride for Isaac, who would continue the covenantal lineage. The term emphasizes her role in the perpetuation of the family name and heritage.
* **Bare (Hebrew, _yâlad'_ - H3205):** A primitive root meaning "to bear young" or "to beget," this verb highlights the act of procreation and the establishment of lineage. When Rebekah states that Milcah "bare unto him" (Bethuel), it precisely defines her mother's role in her birth and her direct, legitimate connection to the family of Nahor. This word underscores the biological and familial authenticity of her claim, which was essential for the servant's verification process, ensuring that the covenantal promises would be passed through a verified and pure line.
* **Earring (Hebrew, _nezem'_ - H5141):** This term, from an unused root of uncertain meaning, refers to a nose-ring or an earring, both common and valuable forms of adornment in the ancient Near East. The phrase "upon her face" (Hebrew, `ʼaph` - H639, meaning nose/nostril/face) strongly suggests a nose-ring, a prevalent custom. Regardless of its exact placement, the *nezem* was a significant piece of jewelry, often made of gold, and its presentation here, alongside the bracelets, marks a formal, public declaration of serious intent, initiating the betrothal process and signifying the suitor's wealth and commitment.

#### Verse Breakdown

* **"And I asked her, and said, Whose daughter [art] thou?":** Following the clear divine sign of Rebekah's exceptional generosity and hospitality, the servant's next logical and essential action was to verify her identity and lineage. This direct inquiry was crucial to ensure she belonged to Abraham's family, as per his oath to Abraham, and was therefore a suitable candidate for the heir of God's covenantal promises. This demonstrates a harmonious blend of faith in divine guidance and practical, diligent verification.
* **"And she said, The daughter of Bethuel, Nahor's son, whom Milcah bare unto him:":** Rebekah's precise and detailed response immediately confirmed her direct relation to Abraham's brother Nahor. This specific lineage was the ultimate confirmation the servant sought, validating that God had indeed led him to the designated family. Her answer not only identified her father but also her paternal grandfather (Nahor) and her mother (Milcah), leaving no doubt as to her exact familial connection within Abraham's broader kin. This precision was vital for the servant to fulfill his mission accurately.
* **"and I put the earring upon her face, and the bracelets upon her hands":** The immediate presentation of these valuable gifts was a culturally significant act. The earring (likely a nose-ring, given "upon her face") and the bracelets were not merely tokens of thanks but substantial gifts, often made of gold, signifying serious intent and the commencement of a betrothal or a preliminary agreement of marriage. This act sealed the servant's conviction that he had found the right woman and formally initiated the process of seeking her hand for Isaac, marking the transition from divine revelation to human action and commitment.

#### Literary Devices

The narrative of Genesis 24:47 employs several literary devices to enhance its meaning and impact. **Symbolism** is prominent, particularly in the gifts given to Rebekah. The golden earring and bracelets are not just adornments; they **symbolize** the wealth and honor of Isaac's household, the seriousness of the marriage proposal, and the covenantal blessings that accompany the chosen line. They are tangible tokens of the spiritual and material inheritance she is invited to share. The entire episode also functions as **Narrative Progression**, meticulously moving the plot forward from the servant's prayer to the divine confirmation and the initiation of the betrothal. Each step, from the drawing of water to the identification of lineage and the giving of gifts, builds sequentially, demonstrating a divinely orchestrated plan unfolding through human agency. Furthermore, the precise details of Rebekah's lineage provide **Verisimilitude**, lending credibility and historical realism to the account, grounding the divine intervention in the specifics of human family structures and cultural practices.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 24:47 is a profound testament to God's active and detailed involvement in the lives of His people, particularly in matters crucial to His covenantal plan. The meticulous alignment of the servant's prayer, Rebekah's actions, and her precise lineage powerfully illustrates divine providence. God's faithfulness in guiding the servant to the exact family, ensuring the purity of the covenantal line for Isaac, underscores His commitment to upholding His promises across generations. This passage teaches that God is intimately concerned with the details of our lives, even in seemingly ordinary interactions, and that His sovereign will works in tandem with human diligence and obedience.

* [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5-6 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord")
* [Psalm 37:23](/psalm/37-23 "Psalm 37:23 - The Steps of a Good Man")
* [Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Matthew 6:33 - Seek First the Kingdom of God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 24:47 offers profound insights into how God guides His people, providing a timeless model for discerning and responding to divine direction. Just as Abraham's servant diligently sought and received clear guidance in a matter of immense importance for the covenant, we are encouraged to trust in God's meticulous providence for our own lives, particularly in significant decisions like career, relationships, or ministry. This passage reminds us to seek God's will with earnest prayer, expectant faith, and practical diligence, recognizing that His hand is at work even in the smallest details. Furthermore, the servant's immediate and generous action upon receiving confirmation highlights the importance of responding to divine guidance with faith and obedience. His willingness to act decisively, even before the full picture was clear, demonstrates a trust that God would continue to open doors as he stepped forward. This narrative encourages us to move forward in faith, knowing that God's leading is reliable and His purposes will prevail, much like [Abraham's initial call](/genesis/12-1 "Genesis 12:1-3 - Abraham's Call to Follow God's Direction") to follow God's direction into an unknown land.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you currently seeking God's specific guidance, and how does the servant's diligent approach in Genesis 24 inspire your own prayer and action?**
* **How does the detailed nature of God's providence in this passage encourage you to trust Him with the "small details" as well as the "big decisions" in your life?**
* **What "earrings and bracelets"—acts of commitment or obedience—might God be calling you to offer in response to His confirmed leading in your life?**
* **How can you balance fervent prayer for divine direction with practical, diligent steps in your pursuit of God's will?**

### FAQ

**Why was Rebekah's lineage so important to the servant?**

Answer: Rebekah's lineage was crucial because Abraham had made his servant swear an oath not to take a wife for Isaac from among the Canaanites, but specifically from his own country and kindred ([Genesis 24:3-4](/genesis/24-3-4 "Genesis 24:3-4 - Abraham's Oath to His Servant")). Confirming Rebekah's direct relation to Abraham's brother Nahor ensured she was from the designated family, thus fulfilling the servant's solemn oath and preserving the purity of the covenantal line through which God's promises to Abraham would be passed down to Isaac and future generations. It was a matter of divine command and covenantal integrity.

**What was the significance of the earring and bracelets given to Rebekah?**

Answer: These were not merely casual gifts but highly significant tokens of serious intent, often signifying the beginning of a betrothal or a preliminary agreement for marriage in ancient Near Eastern culture. Their value, likely being made of gold, indicated the wealth and seriousness of the suitor (Isaac, through his servant) and served as a tangible expression of commitment. Their immediate presentation after confirming Rebekah's identity initiated the formal process of seeking her hand in marriage, moving the divine leading into a concrete, culturally recognized act of engagement. This act was a public declaration of the servant's conviction that he had found the chosen bride.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Abraham's servant seeking a bride for Isaac, culminating in the confirmation of Rebekah's identity and the giving of gifts, beautifully foreshadows Christ's relationship with His Church. Isaac, the promised heir through whom the covenantal blessings flow, awaits his bride, much as Christ, the ultimate heir of all things ([Hebrews 1:2](/hebrews/1-2 "Hebrews 1:2 - Christ, Heir of All Things")), awaits His Church. The servant, guided by God and bearing gifts, serves as a powerful type of the Holy Spirit, who is sent by the Father to seek and prepare a bride (the Church) for the Son. The Spirit adorns the Church with spiritual gifts ([1 Corinthians 12:4-11](/1_corinthians/12-4-11 "1 Corinthians 12:4-11 - Gifts of the Spirit")) and draws believers to Christ ([John 16:13-14](/john/16-13-14 "John 16:13-14 - The Spirit's Guidance")), testifying of Him and making Him known. Rebekah's willing acceptance of the gifts and her subsequent departure from her home to meet Isaac mirrors the Church's response to Christ's call, leaving the old life behind to be united with her heavenly Bridegroom ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). This ancient story, therefore, ultimately points to God's eternal plan to gather a people for Himself, united with His Son in a glorious and everlasting covenant.

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

Isaiah 62:3

Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the LORD, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God.

Isaiah 62:5

For [as] a young man marrieth a virgin, [so] shall thy sons marry thee: and [as] the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, [so] shall thy God rejoice over thee.

Psalms 45:13

The king's daughter [is] all glorious within: her clothing [is] of wrought gold.

Psalms 45:14

She shall be brought unto the king in raiment of needlework: the virgins her companions that follow her shall be brought unto thee.

Genesis 24:22

And it came to pass, as the camels had done drinking, that the man took a golden earring of half a shekel weight, and two bracelets for her hands of ten [shekels] weight of gold;

Genesis 24:24

And she said unto him, I [am] the daughter of Bethuel the son of Milcah, which she bare unto Nahor.

Ezekiel 16:10

I clothed thee also with broidered work, and shod thee with badgers' skin, and I girded thee about with fine linen, and I covered thee with silk.