Rebekah, also spelled Rebecca, is a prominent matriarch in the biblical narrative, known for her role as the wife of Isaac and the mother of Esau and Jacob. Her story is primarily found in the Book of Genesis, where she is depicted as a woman of beauty, faith, and decisive action.

Family Background and Marriage to Isaac

Rebekah was the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Nahor, Abraham's brother, making her a relative of Isaac. Her brother was Laban, who later plays a significant role in the life of Jacob. Rebekah's introduction in the biblical narrative occurs when Abraham sends his servant to find a wife for Isaac from his own kin in Mesopotamia. The servant's prayer for guidance is answered when Rebekah appears at the well, demonstrating kindness and hospitality by offering water to him and his camels (Genesis 24:12-20).

Rebekah's willingness to leave her family and homeland to marry Isaac is a testament to her faith and obedience. Upon meeting Isaac, she becomes his wife, and he loves her deeply, finding comfort after the death of his mother, Sarah (Genesis 24:67).

Motherhood and the Birth of Esau and Jacob

Rebekah's journey into motherhood is marked by divine intervention. For many years, she was barren, but Isaac prayed to the LORD on her behalf, and she conceived twins (Genesis 25:21). During her pregnancy, Rebekah experienced a tumultuous struggle within her womb, prompting her to seek the LORD's guidance. The LORD revealed to her that two nations were in her womb and that the older would serve the younger (Genesis 25:23).

Rebekah gave birth to Esau and Jacob, with Esau emerging first, followed by Jacob, who was grasping Esau's heel. This birth narrative foreshadows the future dynamics between the two brothers and the fulfillment of God's prophecy.

Role in Jacob's Blessing

Rebekah's influence is notably seen in the account of Jacob receiving Isaac's blessing. Aware of Isaac's intention to bless Esau, Rebekah orchestrates a plan for Jacob to receive the blessing instead, in alignment with the divine prophecy she received. She instructs Jacob to disguise himself as Esau, enabling him to receive the blessing from his blind father (Genesis 27:5-17).

While Rebekah's actions can be viewed as deceptive, they underscore her commitment to God's revealed will and her protective nature towards Jacob. Her foresight and determination ensure that the covenantal promise continues through Jacob, later named Israel.

Legacy and Death

Rebekah's legacy is multifaceted. She is remembered as a woman of faith, whose actions significantly shaped the course of Israel's history. Her life exemplifies the complexities of human relationships and the sovereignty of God in fulfilling His promises.

Rebekah's death is not explicitly detailed in the biblical text, but she is honored as one of the matriarchs of Israel. She is buried in the Cave of Machpelah, alongside her husband Isaac, Abraham, Sarah, and later, Jacob and Leah (Genesis 49:31).

In summary, Rebekah's story is a testament to her pivotal role in the Abrahamic lineage, her faith in God's promises, and her enduring impact on the narrative of God's chosen people.Genesis 25:21-28
And Isaac entreated the LORD for his wife, because she was barren: and the LORD was entreated of him, and Rebekah his wife conceived.
Nave's Topical Index

The Perpetual virginity of Blessed Mary.
... Jacob, the son of Isaac and Rebecca, when in fear ... and watered the flocks of Laban,
his mother's brother. ... father's brother, and that he was Rebekah's son." Here ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/the perpetual virginity of blessed.htm

1 Cor. xiii. 4
... In the mind of that pious mother the mystery ... correctly stated the patristic view
of Rebecca's conduct, a ... "Rebekah had no doubt treasured up the oracle which ...
/.../homily xxxiii 1 cor xiii.htm

Against Jovinianus.
... We are informed that Rebekah went like a prophet to ... moreover, the husband of one
wife, Rebecca, prefigures the ... to the funeral of his father and mother, so must ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/against jovinianus.htm

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