Genesis 24:32

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Genesis 24:32 details the warm and immediate welcome extended by Laban to Abraham's servant (traditionally identified as Eliezer) and his companions upon their arrival in the city of Nahor. This verse highlights the profound importance of hospitality in the ancient world, as well as the practicalities of travel in biblical times.

Context of the Verse

This verse occurs after the servant's divine encounter with Rebekah at the well, where she demonstrated remarkable kindness and generosity by watering his camels. Having confirmed her lineage and received an invitation to her father's house, Laban, Rebekah's brother, quickly arrives to escort the servant. His eagerness is partly due to Rebekah's excited report and the sight of the valuable gifts she received. The servant and his entourage had just completed a long and demanding journey from Canaan, making the provision of rest and refreshment a critical necessity before any discussions could take place.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Exemplary Hospitality: Laban's actions are a model of ancient Near Eastern hospitality. He didn't merely invite the travelers in; he immediately saw to their comprehensive needs. This included not only personal comfort but also diligent care for their valuable animals. This level of welcome was a sacred duty, reflecting honor and goodwill, as seen in other biblical accounts of hospitality, such as Abraham's welcome of the three men.
  • Diligent Care for Travelers and Animals: The specific mention of "ungirded his camels, and gave straw and provender for the camels" underscores the immense value of these pack animals for long-distance travel. Providing fresh water for foot washing was also a common and essential act of kindness after dusty journeys. This attention to detail demonstrates a thorough and genuine care for the guests and their means of transport.
  • Divine Providence and Guidance: Laban's swift and generous welcome is another confirmation of God's guiding hand in the servant's mission. The servant had prayed for clear signs of God's favor in finding the right wife for Isaac (see Genesis 24:12-14), and Laban's open arms were part of the unfolding divine plan that would lead to Rebekah's marriage to Isaac.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "ungirded his camels" (Hebrew: pataḥ) implies the immediate removal of their heavy saddles, packs, and harnesses, allowing the animals to rest and be unburdened. "Provender" (Hebrew: mispô') refers to prepared or mixed fodder, distinct from mere straw (which could be bedding or roughage), indicating a specific and nourishing meal for the weary camels. These details emphasize the complete and thoughtful provision made for the travelers.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless lessons on the importance of hospitality and attentiveness to the needs of others. It encourages us to be welcoming, practical, and generous towards those who come into our lives, especially those who are weary or in need of solace. Laban's actions highlight that genuine care extends beyond just people to include their possessions or even animals, reflecting a holistic approach to kindness. Furthermore, it reminds us that acts of hospitality, though seemingly simple, can be pivotal moments in God's larger sovereign plan, as this welcome was crucial for the lineage that would eventually lead to the birth of Jesus Christ.

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Cross-References

  • Genesis 43:24 (5 votes)

    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 (5 votes)

    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 (4 votes)

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

  • Genesis 19:2 (3 votes)

    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 (3 votes)

    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 (3 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

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