Genesis 24:14
And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master.
Genesis 24:14 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Genesis, we witness the story of Abraham's servant on a mission to find a wife for Isaac. The servant prays to God, asking for a specific sign to guide him in identifying the right woman. He devises a test in which the woman who offers to draw water for him and his camels would be the chosen one. This test was not just a matter of convenience but a way to discern a deeper truth. The willingness of the chosen woman to go above and beyond by offering to water the camels showed her hospitality, kindness, and generosity. These qualities were essential in the cultural context of the time and demonstrated a virtuous character. This story highlights the importance of faith, prayer, and listening to divine guidance in making important decisions. It serves as a lesson in the value of kindness and selflessness in human relationships, as well as a testament to the power of trust in the divine plan.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Genesis, Abraham's servant is on a mission to find a wife for Isaac. The servant devises a test to determine the character of the women he encounters at the well. The test involves asking a young woman for a sip of water and judging her character based on her response. The servant prays to God for a specific sign - that the chosen woman would also offer to water his camels, which would be a great act of kindness and hospitality. The servant recognizes that such a gesture would not only demonstrate the woman's generosity but also her servant-hearted nature. This passage highlights the importance of hospitality and kindness, values that are emphasized throughout the Bible. It also demonstrates the servant's faith in God to lead him to the right woman for Isaac, showing how God's providence and guidance are crucial in important decisions.
Genesis 24:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
and let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast showed kindness unto my master.
World English Bible
Let it happen, that the young lady to whom I will say, ‘Please let down your pitcher, that I may drink,’ and she will say, ‘Drink, and I will also give your camels a drink,’—let her be the one you have appointed for your servant Isaac. By this I will know that you have shown kindness to my master.”
Douay-Rheims
Now, therefore, the maid to whom I shall say: Let down thy pitcher that I may drink: and she shall answer, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let it be the same whom thou hast provided for thy servant Isaac: and by this, I shall understand that thou hast shewn kindness to my master.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Graunt therefore that ye maide, to whom I say, Bowe downe thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drinke: if she say, Drinke, and I will giue thy camels drinke also: may be she that thou hast ordeined for thy seruant Izhak: and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed mercy on my master.