Genesis 24:60

And they blessed Rebekah and said to her, "Our sister, may you become the mother of thousands upon thousands. May your offspring possess the gates of their enemies."

Study Bible

They blessed Rebekah
The act of blessing in the Hebrew context, "בָּרַךְ" (barak), is a profound invocation of divine favor. In ancient Near Eastern culture, blessings were not mere well-wishes but carried the weight of prophetic declarations. Here, Rebekah's family is invoking God's favor upon her, recognizing the significant role she is to play in the Abrahamic covenant. This blessing is both a farewell and a prophetic utterance, acknowledging her future as a matriarch in God's unfolding plan.

Our sister
The term "sister" here, "אָחוֹת" (achot), is not just a familial designation but a term of endearment and respect. It signifies a deep bond and a shared heritage. In the patriarchal society of the time, addressing Rebekah as "our sister" underscores her integral role within the family and the community. It is a reminder of her identity and the responsibilities she carries as she steps into her new life.

May you become the mother of thousands of ten thousands
This phrase is a hyperbolic expression of fruitfulness and prosperity. The Hebrew word for "thousands," "אֶלֶף" (eleph), and "ten thousands," "רְבָבָה" (rebabah), emphasize an innumerable progeny. This blessing echoes God's promise to Abraham about his descendants being as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5). It highlights the continuity of God's covenant through Rebekah, affirming her role in the divine promise of a great nation.

May your offspring possess the gates of their enemies
The phrase "possess the gates" is a metaphor for victory and dominion. In ancient cities, the gate was the place of power, commerce, and decision-making. To possess the gates, "יָרַשׁ" (yarash), implies control and authority over one's adversaries. This blessing is prophetic, foreshadowing the future conquests of Israel and ultimately pointing to the spiritual victory through Christ, a descendant of Rebekah. It is a declaration of triumph and divine favor over opposition.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
The central figure in this verse, Rebekah is about to leave her family to marry Isaac. She is blessed by her family with a prophetic blessing that speaks to her future role as a matriarch.

2. Rebekah's Family
They play a significant role in this event, offering a blessing that reflects both their hopes and the cultural importance of lineage and victory over enemies.

3. The Blessing
This event is a formal sending-off, where Rebekah's family imparts a blessing that is both a prayer and a prophecy, reflecting the divine promise of numerous descendants and victory.

Teaching Points

The Power of Blessing
The words spoken over Rebekah highlight the importance of blessings in biblical times. They were not mere wishes but carried prophetic weight and divine intention.

Faith in God's Promises
Rebekah's journey is a step of faith, trusting in the promises of God as she leaves her family. This teaches us to trust in God's plans even when the future is uncertain.

Legacy and Influence
The blessing speaks to the impact one person can have on future generations. Our actions and faith today can influence countless lives in the future.

Victory Through God
The mention of possessing the gates of enemies signifies victory and protection, reminding believers that true victory comes through God's power and promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the blessing given to Rebekah reflect God's promises to Abraham, and what does this teach us about God's faithfulness across generations?

2. In what ways can we speak blessings into the lives of others today, and how might these blessings impact their future?

3. How does Rebekah's willingness to leave her family and step into the unknown challenge us in our own faith journeys?

4. What does the concept of "possessing the gates of their enemies" mean for us as Christians today, and how can we apply this in our spiritual battles?

5. How do the blessings and promises seen in Genesis 24:60 connect to the broader account of God's covenant with His people throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22:17
This verse connects to the promise God made to Abraham about his descendants possessing the gates of their enemies, showing continuity in God's promises through generations.

Genesis 28:3
Jacob receives a similar blessing, emphasizing the theme of multiplication and the continuation of God's covenant through the patriarchs.

Ruth 4:11-12
The blessing given to Ruth by the elders of Bethlehem parallels Rebekah's blessing, highlighting the importance of lineage and God's providence in family lines.