Genesis 24:18
New International Version
“Drink, my lord,” she said, and quickly lowered the jar to her hands and gave him a drink.

New Living Translation
“Yes, my lord,” she answered, “have a drink.” And she quickly lowered her jug from her shoulder and gave him a drink.

English Standard Version
She said, “Drink, my lord.” And she quickly let down her jar upon her hand and gave him a drink.

Berean Standard Bible
“Drink, my lord,” she replied, and she quickly lowered her jar to her hands and gave him a drink.

King James Bible
And she said, Drink, my lord: and she hasted, and let down her pitcher upon her hand, and gave him drink.

New King James Version
So she said, “Drink, my lord.” Then she quickly let her pitcher down to her hand, and gave him a drink.

New American Standard Bible
And she said, “Drink, my lord”; then she quickly lowered her jar to her hand, and gave him a drink.

NASB 1995
She said, “Drink, my lord"; and she quickly lowered her jar to her hand, and gave him a drink.

NASB 1977
And she said, “Drink, my lord”; and she quickly lowered her jar to her hand, and gave him a drink.

Legacy Standard Bible
And she said, “Drink, my lord”; and she quickly lowered her jar to her hand and gave him a drink.

Amplified Bible
And she said, “Drink, my lord”; and she quickly lowered her jar to her hand, and gave him a drink.

Christian Standard Bible
She replied, “Drink, my lord.” She quickly lowered her jug to her hand and gave him a drink.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
She replied, “Drink, my lord.” She quickly lowered her jug to her hand and gave him a drink.

American Standard Version
And she said, Drink, my lord: and she hasted, and let down her pitcher upon her hand, and gave him drink.

Contemporary English Version
"I'll be glad to," she answered. Then she quickly took the jar from her shoulder and held it while he drank.

English Revised Version
And she said, Drink, my lord: and she hasted, and let down her pitcher upon her hand, and gave him drink.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
"Drink, sir," she said. She quickly lowered her jar to her hand and gave him a drink.

Good News Translation
She said, "Drink, sir," and quickly lowered her jar from her shoulder and held it while he drank.

International Standard Version
"Drink, sir!" she replied as she quickly lowered her jug on her arm to offer him a drink.

NET Bible
"Drink, my lord," she replied, and quickly lowering her jug to her hands, she gave him a drink.

New Heart English Bible
So she said, "Drink, my lord." And she hurried and let down her jug to her hands, and gave him a drink.

Webster's Bible Translation
And she said, Drink, my lord. And she hasted, and let down her pitcher upon her hand, and gave him drink.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
“Drink, my lord,” she replied, and she quickly lowered her jar to her hands and gave him a drink.

World English Bible
She said, “Drink, my lord.” She hurried, and let down her pitcher on her hand, and gave him a drink.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and she says, “Drink, my lord”; and she hurries, and lets down her pitcher on her hand, and gives him drink.

Young's Literal Translation
and she saith, 'Drink, my lord;' and she hasteth, and letteth down her pitcher upon her hand, and giveth him drink.

Smith's Literal Translation
And she will say, Drink, lord: and she will hasten, and she will bring down her bucket upon her hand, and will give him to drink.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And she answered: Drink, my lord. And quickly she let down the pitcher upon her arm, and gave him drink.

Catholic Public Domain Version
And she responded, “Drink, my lord.” And she quickly brought down the pitcher on her arm, and she gave him a drink.

New American Bible
“Drink, sir,” she replied, and quickly lowering the jug into her hand, she gave him a drink.

New Revised Standard Version
“Drink, my lord,” she said, and quickly lowered her jar upon her hand and gave him a drink.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And she said, Drink, my lord; and she hastened and let down the pitcher upon her hands and gave him a drink.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And she said to him, “Drink, my Lord”, and she was quick, and she let down her cruse on her hands and gave him a drink.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
And she said: 'Drink, my lord'; and she hastened, and let down her pitcher upon her hand, and gave him drink.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
and she said, Drink, Sir; and she hasted, and let down the pitcher upon her arm, and gave him to drink, till he ceased drinking.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Rebekah is Chosen
17So the servant ran to meet her and said, “Please let me have a little water from your jar.” 18“Drink, my lord,” she replied, and she quickly lowered her jar to her hands and gave him a drink. 19After she had given him a drink, she said, “I will also draw water for your camels, until they have had enough to drink.”…

Cross References
John 4:7-15
When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.” / (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) / “You are a Jew,” said the woman. “How can You ask for a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) ...

Matthew 10:42
And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is My disciple, truly I tell you, he will never lose his reward.”

John 4:28-30
Then the woman left her water jar, went back into the town, and said to the people, / “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?” / So they left the town and made their way toward Jesus.

1 Kings 17:10-11
So Elijah got up and went to Zarephath. When he arrived at the city gate, there was a widow gathering sticks. Elijah called to her and said, “Please bring me a little water in a cup, so that I may drink.” / And as she was going to get it, he called to her and said, “Please bring me a piece of bread.”

Exodus 2:16-21
Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters, and they came to draw water and fill the troughs to water their father’s flock. / And when some shepherds came along and drove them away, Moses rose up to help them and watered their flock. / When the daughters returned to their father Reuel, he asked them, “Why have you returned so early today?” ...

Ruth 2:9
Let your eyes be on the field they are harvesting, and follow along after these girls. Indeed, I have ordered the young men not to touch you. And when you are thirsty, go and drink from the jars the young men have filled.”

1 Samuel 9:11-13
And as they were climbing the hill to the city, they met some young women coming out to draw water and asked, “Is the seer here?” / “Yes, he is ahead of you,” they answered. “Hurry now, for today he has come to the city because the people have a sacrifice on the high place. / As soon as you enter the city, you will find him before he goes up to the high place to eat. The people will not eat until he comes, because he must bless the sacrifice; after that, the guests will eat. Go up at once; you will find him.”

Judges 4:18-19
Jael went out to greet Sisera and said to him, “Come in, my lord. Come in with me. Do not be afraid.” So he entered her tent, and she covered him with a blanket. / Sisera said to her, “Please give me a little water to drink, for I am thirsty.” So she opened a container of milk, gave him a drink, and covered him again.

Proverbs 25:21
If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.

Hebrews 13:2
Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.

Romans 12:20
On the contrary, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

Isaiah 55:1
“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy, and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost!

Mark 9:41
Indeed, if anyone gives you even a cup of water because you bear the name of Christ, truly I tell you, he will never lose his reward.

2 Kings 4:8
One day Elisha went to Shunem, and a prominent woman who lived there persuaded him to have a meal. So whenever he would pass by, he would stop there to eat.

Luke 10:33-34
But a Samaritan on a journey came upon him, and when he saw him, he had compassion. / He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.


Treasury of Scripture

And she said, Drink, my lord: and she hurried, and let down her pitcher on her hand, and gave him drink.

Proverbs 31:26
She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

1 Peter 3:8
Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:

1 Peter 4:8,9
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins…

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Genesis 24
1. Abraham swears his servant.
10. The servant's journey.
12. His prayer.
14. His sign.
15. Rebekah meets him;
18. fulfils his sign;
22. receives jewels;
23. shows her kindred;
25. and invites him home.
26. The servant blesses God.
29. Laban entertains him.
34. The servant shows his message.
50. Laban and Bethuel approve it.
58. Rebekah consents to go, and departs.
62. Isaac meets and marries her.














“Drink, my lord,” she replied
This phrase reflects the cultural norms of hospitality in the ancient Near East, where offering water to a stranger was a common courtesy. The term "my lord" indicates respect and humility, which were important values in patriarchal societies. This encounter takes place at a well, a central location for social interaction and resource gathering. The use of "my lord" also foreshadows the respect and submission that Rebekah will later show as Isaac's wife, aligning with the biblical theme of servanthood and respect within relationships.

and she quickly lowered her jar to her hands
Rebekah's quick action demonstrates her willingness and eagerness to serve, a trait that is highly valued in biblical narratives. The act of lowering the jar to her hands suggests a readiness to meet the needs of others, paralleling the servant-hearted nature of Christ, who came to serve and not to be served (Mark 10:45). This gesture also highlights the physical effort involved, indicating her strength and capability, qualities that would be important for her future role in the lineage of Israel.

and gave him a drink
This act of giving water is symbolic of life and sustenance, echoing other biblical instances where water is a metaphor for spiritual nourishment (John 4:14). Rebekah's provision of water can be seen as a type of Christ, who offers the living water of eternal life. Her actions fulfill the servant's prayer for a sign, confirming God's guidance in choosing a wife for Isaac. This moment is pivotal in the Abrahamic narrative, as it leads to the continuation of God's covenant through Isaac and Rebekah's descendants.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Rebekah
A young woman of marriageable age, known for her beauty and kindness. She is the daughter of Bethuel and becomes the wife of Isaac.

2. Abraham's Servant
Likely Eliezer of Damascus, tasked with finding a wife for Isaac, Abraham's son, from his own relatives.

3. The Well
A common gathering place for drawing water, significant in biblical accounts as a place of divine encounters and provision.

4. Nahor
The city where Abraham's relatives lived, named after Abraham's brother.

5. The Event
The servant's prayerful search for a wife for Isaac, leading to Rebekah's act of hospitality.
Teaching Points
Hospitality as a Virtue
Rebekah's willingness to serve a stranger exemplifies the biblical call to hospitality. We are encouraged to be open and generous to those we encounter.

Divine Guidance in Decision-Making
The servant's reliance on prayer and God's guidance in choosing a wife for Isaac teaches us to seek God's will in our decisions.

The Role of Women in God's Plan
Rebekah's pivotal role in the Abrahamic lineage highlights the importance of women in God's redemptive history.

Faithfulness in Small Acts
Rebekah's simple act of drawing water becomes a significant moment in God's plan, reminding us that small acts of faithfulness can have great impact.

God's Providence and Timing
The meeting at the well shows God's perfect timing and provision, encouraging us to trust in His plans for our lives.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Genesis 24:18?

2. How does Rebekah's response in Genesis 24:18 demonstrate hospitality and kindness?

3. What can we learn from Rebekah's actions about serving others selflessly?

4. How does Rebekah's willingness to help connect to Jesus' teachings on service?

5. In what ways can we apply Rebekah's example of generosity in our lives?

6. How does Genesis 24:18 illustrate God's providence in fulfilling His promises?

7. How does Genesis 24:18 illustrate the importance of hospitality in biblical times?

8. What does Rebekah's response in Genesis 24:18 reveal about her character?

9. How does Genesis 24:18 reflect the cultural norms of ancient Near Eastern societies?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Genesis 24?

11. What does the Bible say about soul ties?

12. What does the Bible teach about money?

13. Why does the text claim God is physically present and conversing with Abraham if other passages emphasize God's transcendence (Genesis 18:1, 22)?

14. What are the family idols mentioned in the Bible?
What Does Genesis 24:18 Mean
Drink

Genesis 24:18 opens with Rebekah’s gracious invitation: “Drink.” Eliezer has just asked for a little water after a long desert journey (Genesis 24:17). In that single word we see:

• Immediate hospitality—echoing Jesus’ praise for giving “even a cup of cold water” to those in need (Matthew 10:42, Mark 9:41).

• Sensitivity to practical needs—much like the Samaritan woman who drew water for Jesus in John 4:7–10. Rebekah models the heart of a servant before she ever speaks a second sentence.


my lord

Calling a stranger “my lord” shows respectful humility. Scripture commends such deference:

• Sarah addressed Abraham as “my lord” (Genesis 18:12, 1 Peter 3:6), illustrating reverence that flows from a trusting heart.

• Rebekah’s politeness previews later commands for believers to “serve with goodwill, as to the Lord” (Ephesians 6:5–7).

Her language is not flattery; it is a window into a character shaped by courtesy and self-forgetting kindness.


she replied

Rebekah’s response is immediate—no hesitation, no excuses. This echoes others who promptly said, “Speak, for Your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10) or “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord” (Luke 1:38). The principle is simple:

• Godly people answer needs swiftly, trusting Him with the outcome.

• Readiness to respond often precedes God’s greater reveal, as it does here in leading her to Isaac.


and she quickly lowered her jar to her hands

Speed and effort mark genuine service. The text highlights that she moved “quickly,” mirroring verses that urge diligence:

• “Do not be slothful in zeal; be fervent in spirit” (Romans 12:11).

Proverbs 31:19 praises the virtuous woman who works eagerly with her hands.

Lowering the heavy clay jar meant bending, possibly splashing herself, but love never counts the cost. Her swift action shows faith lived out through energetic work.


and gave him a drink

Rebekah completes the task. Action, not mere intention, satisfies thirst. Other examples of completed mercy include:

• Abraham setting a full meal before the angels (Genesis 18:8).

• The Good Samaritan dressing wounds and paying for the inn (Luke 10:34-35).

• Jesus washing the disciples’ feet and saying, “You also should do as I have done to you” (John 13:14-15).

Faith expresses itself in tangible deeds that refresh weary travelers (Hebrews 13:2, Matthew 25:35).


summary

Genesis 24:18 captures the essence of godly hospitality: a ready word of welcome, respectful address, swift obedience, energetic effort, and completed service. Rebekah’s single verse of kindness becomes the hinge on which God’s covenant plan swings, leading to her marriage with Isaac and the unfolding promises to Israel. Her example calls every believer to meet needs promptly, humbly, and wholeheartedly, trusting that simple acts of mercy carry eternal significance.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
“Drink,
שְׁתֵ֣ה (šə·ṯêh)
Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular
Strong's 8354: To imbibe

my lord,”
אֲדֹנִ֑י (’ă·ḏō·nî)
Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 113: Sovereign, controller

she replied,
וַתֹּ֖אמֶר (wat·tō·mer)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 559: To utter, say

and she quickly
וַתְּמַהֵ֗ר (wat·tə·ma·hêr)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 4116: To be liquid, flow easily, to hurry, promptly

lowered
וַתֹּ֧רֶד (wat·tō·reḏ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 3381: To come or go down, descend

her jar
כַּדָּ֛הּ (kad·dāh)
Noun - feminine singular construct | third person feminine singular
Strong's 3537: A pail, earthenware, a jar

to
עַל־ (‘al-)
Preposition
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against

her hands
יָדָ֖הּ (yā·ḏāh)
Noun - feminine singular construct | third person feminine singular
Strong's 3027: A hand

and gave him a drink.
וַתַּשְׁקֵֽהוּ׃ (wat·taš·qê·hū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular | third person masculine singular
Strong's 8248: To quaff, to irrigate, furnish a, potion to


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OT Law: Genesis 24:18 She said Drink my lord (Gen. Ge Gn)
Genesis 24:17
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