Genesis 24:49

Genesis 24:49, in plain English

The servant asked Laban and Bethuel directly: Will you let Rebekah come with me, or should I look elsewhere?

Why it's here

Now the servant is asking the family's permission. This wasn't an era where a woman could just leave with a stranger, no matter how good he seemed. The family had to agree. The servant was being respectful and honest—he needed their answer so he'd know what to do next.

Who's speaking

Abraham's servant, addressing Rebekah's family

Where it sits in the story

Even with a clear sign from God, the servant respected human relationships and family authority. He trusted God to work through the family's response, whatever it would be.

The scholarly reading

The servant now addresses Laban and Bethuel directly, asking them to confirm their willingness to release Rebekah to him, or to tell him if they will refuse so he can seek elsewhere.

Language and setting

The servant's address shifts from narration to negotiation—he now performs the delicate task of persuading the family while maintaining his dignity. The formulation 'if you will show kindness and faithfulness' (im-atem osin hesed v'emet) uses the dual covenant virtues, suggesting this marriage is itself a covenantal matter. His statement 'I may go elsewhere' (v'elekhah al-yashar) preserves his agency while opening negotiation.

Voice

Abraham's servant, now directly addressing Laban and Bethuel

Significance

This demonstrates that providence doesn't eliminate negotiation—the servant must still persuade, petition, and sometimes threaten alternatives. God's purposes work *through* the hard work of human relationship-building.

47Then I asked her, ‘Whose daughter are you?’

48Then I bowed down and worshiped the LORD; and I blessed the LORD, the God of my master Abraham, who led me on the right road to take the granddaughter of my master’s brother for his son.

49Now if you will show kindness and faithfulness to my master, tell me; but if not, let me know, so that I may go elsewhere.”

50Laban and Bethuel answered, “This is from the LORD; we have no choice in the matter.

51Rebekah is here before you. Take her and go, and let her become the wife of your master’s son, just as the LORD has decreed.”

Read all of Genesis 24 — A servant, a prayer, a woman at a well. One of the Bible's most beautiful stories of providence unfolds in the smallest details.