Rebekah, also spelled Rebecca, is a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, 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 faith and determination.

Family Background and Early Life

Rebekah was the daughter of Bethuel, who was a member of the family of Nahor, Abraham's brother, making her Abraham's grandniece. This familial connection is significant, as it underscores the continuation of God's covenantal promises through Abraham's lineage. Rebekah's family resided in Paddan-aram, in the region of Mesopotamia.

The Selection as Isaac's Wife

Rebekah's introduction in the biblical narrative occurs in Genesis 24, where Abraham, seeking a suitable wife for his son Isaac, sends his servant to his homeland to find a wife from his own kin. The servant's journey is marked by prayer and divine guidance. Upon reaching the city of Nahor, the servant encounters Rebekah at a well. Her willingness to draw water for him and his camels fulfills the sign he had prayed for, indicating that she is the chosen bride for Isaac.

The servant presents gifts to Rebekah and her family, and after receiving their consent, Rebekah agrees to leave her home and journey to Canaan to marry Isaac. Her decision to go with the servant demonstrates her faith and willingness to embrace God's plan for her life.

Marriage to Isaac and Motherhood

Rebekah's marriage to Isaac is marked by love and mutual respect. Genesis 24:67 states, "Isaac brought her into the tent of his mother Sarah, and he took Rebekah as his wife. Isaac loved her and was comforted after his mother’s death." This union is significant as it continues the Abrahamic line through which God's promises would be fulfilled.

Rebekah initially faced barrenness, but after Isaac prayed to the Lord on her behalf, she conceived twins. During her pregnancy, she experienced a struggle within her womb and sought 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). This prophecy foreshadowed the future dynamics between her sons, Esau and Jacob.

The Birth of Esau and Jacob

Rebekah gave birth to Esau and Jacob, who would become the progenitors of two distinct nations. Esau, the firstborn, was favored by Isaac, while Jacob, the younger, was favored by Rebekah. This parental favoritism played a crucial role in the unfolding of their family dynamics and the fulfillment of God's plan.

Rebekah's Role in Jacob's Blessing

Rebekah's most notable action occurs in Genesis 27, where she orchestrates a plan for Jacob to receive Isaac's blessing, intended for Esau. Aware of Isaac's intention to bless Esau, Rebekah instructs Jacob to deceive his father by disguising himself as Esau. This act, while controversial, aligns with the divine prophecy given to her during her pregnancy.

Rebekah's intervention ensures that Jacob receives the blessing, securing his place in the covenantal lineage. Her actions, though deceptive, are seen as instrumental in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.

Legacy and Significance

Rebekah's life is a testament to her faith, courage, and pivotal role in the history of Israel. Her story highlights themes of divine providence, the complexities of family relationships, and the fulfillment of God's promises. As the matriarch of the Israelite nation, Rebekah's legacy is integral to the biblical narrative, and her influence extends through her son Jacob, who becomes Israel, the father of the twelve tribes.

Rebekah's story invites reflection on the ways God works through human actions, even those fraught with imperfection, to accomplish His divine purposes. Her life exemplifies the intricate interplay between divine sovereignty and human agency in the unfolding of salvation history.Genesis 22:20-23
And it came to pass after these things, that it was told Abraham, saying, Behold, Milcah, she has also born children to your brother Nahor;
Nave's Topical Index

Who was Rebekah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Jacob in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Esau in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus