Rebekah in the Bible: The Role of a Faithful Wife and Mother

Rebekah is an important figure in the Bible, playing a significant role in the stories of Abraham and his son Isaac. Her story is filled with divine provisions, obedience, and the fulfillment of God's promises. Let's delve into the life and legacy of Rebekah.

Background and Introduction

Rebekah was the wife of Isaac, the son of Abraham, and she symbolizes a woman of faith and obedience. Her story is found primarily in the biblical book of Genesis, specifically in chapters 24, 25, 26, 27, and 29. Rebekah's narrative is both a family tale and a testament to God's sovereign plan for the future of His people.

The Arrangement of Rebekah and Isaac

Long before Rebekah was chosen as Isaac's wife, Abraham had already arranged for his servant Eliezer to find a suitable wife for his son. Abraham's purpose was to ensure that Isaac would have a godly wife to continue the covenant line. Abraham instructed Eliezer to find a woman from among his family, explicitly choosing a woman free from the influence of paganism.

Eliezer's Journey to Find Rebekah

Eliezer left Haran with his servants and camels, setting his sights on the area of Nahor. At a well, he prayed for God to guide him to the right woman. Rebekah appeared, drawing water for her family's camels. This act impressed Eliezer, as it demonstrated her kindness and compassion. After originating and giving him a drink, Rebekah also watered all the camels, showing her industrious nature. Eliezer recognized that the blessing of their journey was answered by God, and he approached Rebekah, giving her a gold ring and bracelets as tokens of his intentions.

Rebekah accepted the trinkets and quickly informed her family of Eliezer's purpose. Her parents, Laban and Bethuel, agreed to their union, and Rebekah went on with Eliezer and his companions to meet with Isaac.

Rebekah's Integration into Isaac's Life

Rebekah's journey to meet Isaac was a significant turning point. Upon arriving, Rebekah unveiled herself to Isaac, and he brought her into his mother's tent, where she became his wife. Their marriage was marked by a deep affection and mutual comfort, especially after Sarah, Isaac's mother, had passed away. Rebekah provided Isaac with the love and companionship he needed.

The Blessings and Trials of Rebekah

Rebekah was not without her struggles. Unlike Sarah, she experienced a long period of barrenness, despite her and Isaac's fervent prayers. After 20 years, she miraculously conceived and gave birth to twins, Esau and Jacob. This miraculous conception almost seemed to be a sign of the struggles that would follow, as Genesis itself notes that the twins were so active in the womb that Rebekah wondered why she was carrying them.

During her pregnancy, Rebekah was told by Jehovah that the older son would serve the younger. This prophecy, which was fulfilled through Jacob and Esau’s rivalry, demonstrated God's ultimate control over their destinies.

The Famine and Rebekah’s Disguise

When a famine struck, Rebekah’s family moved to Philistine territory. Rebekah's beauty made her desirable, and when King Abimelech heard about her, he thought she might be Isaac's wife, thus Isaac's safety was threatened. Identification could have led to tragedy, so Rebekah pretended to be Isaac's sister, saving their lives.

Rebekah’s Role in the Blessing of Jacob

As Isaac aged, he planned to bless his son, Esau, as the heir of the covenant. However, Rebekah, knowing the prophecy that Jacob would be greater, devised a plan to bless Jacob instead. She persuaded Isaac to give the blessing to Jacob, ensuring that the birthright and the covenant blessings would pass to the younger son, aligning with God's promise.

Conclusion

Rebekah's life was one of faith and obedience. From her arranged marriage to Isaac to her decisive actions during Isaac's blessing of Jacob, Rebekah's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, obedience, and the role of women in fulfilling God's divine plans. Her story continues to inspire and teach us about the divine sovereignty over human affairs.