Topical Bible: Benedictions by Bethuel's Household, Upon Rebekah

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Topical Encyclopedia

The account of the benedictions pronounced upon Rebekah by her family is found in the book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 24. This chapter details the events surrounding the selection of Rebekah as a wife for Isaac, the son of Abraham. The narrative highlights the providence of God in guiding Abraham's servant to Rebekah and the subsequent blessings pronounced by her family as she departs to become Isaac's wife.

Context and Background

Abraham, desiring a suitable wife for his son Isaac, sends his servant to his homeland to find a wife from among his relatives. The servant, upon reaching the city of Nahor, encounters Rebekah, the daughter of Bethuel, who is the son of Milcah and Nahor, Abraham's brother. After a series of divinely orchestrated events, Rebekah agrees to marry Isaac, and her family consents to the union.

The Benediction

Before Rebekah departs with Abraham's servant, her family bestows a blessing upon her. This benediction is significant as it reflects the hopes and prayers of her family for her future. The blessing is recorded in Genesis 24:60 :

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

Analysis of the Benediction

1. "Our sister, may you become the mother of thousands of ten thousands": This part of the blessing emphasizes fertility and prosperity. It reflects the cultural and familial desire for Rebekah to be fruitful and to have numerous descendants. The phrase "thousands of ten thousands" is a hyperbolic expression indicating an innumerable progeny, aligning with God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky (Genesis 15:5).

2. "May your offspring possess the gates of their enemies": This portion of the blessing speaks to victory and dominion. In ancient times, possessing the gates of a city symbolized control and triumph over one's adversaries. This blessing echoes the covenantal promise given to Abraham in Genesis 22:17 , where God declares, "your offspring will possess the gates of their enemies." It signifies not only military success but also spiritual and moral authority.

Theological Significance

The benediction upon Rebekah is more than a familial farewell; it is a prophetic utterance that aligns with God's covenantal promises to Abraham. Rebekah's role as the matriarch of the Israelite nation is underscored by this blessing, as she becomes the mother of Jacob, later named Israel, and Esau. The blessing anticipates the fulfillment of God's promises through her lineage, ultimately leading to the birth of the Messiah.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the patriarchal society of the ancient Near East, blessings were considered powerful and binding. They were often seen as prophetic, carrying the weight of divine approval and intention. The blessing of Rebekah by her family would have been understood as invoking God's favor and protection over her as she embarked on her new life.

Conclusion

The benedictions pronounced by Bethuel's household upon Rebekah are a profound testament to the faith and hope placed in God's promises. They reflect the cultural values of the time while also pointing forward to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the lineage of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 24:60
And they blessed Rebekah, and said to her, You are our sister, be you the mother of thousands of millions, and let your seed possess the gate of those which hate them.
Nave's Topical Index