Genesis 24:59

Genesis 24:59, in plain English

Rebekah said yes, and her family sent her on her way with the servant, her nurse, and his men.

Why it's here

She chose to go. That one word—yes—set everything in motion. Her family gave her a nurse to accompany her, someone who would be her connection to home in this new place. It was a significant departure, with witnesses and attendants.

Who's speaking

The narrator

Where it sits in the story

Rebekah stepped into an uncertain future by faith. She didn't know Isaac; she didn't know what her marriage would be like. But she trusted that God's hand was in this, just as her family did. Her yes became part of God's plan for His people.

The scholarly reading

Rebekah consents, and they send her away with the servant, accompanied by her nurse and attendants.

Language and setting

Her simple affirmation—'I will go' (alelkh)—represents one of Scripture's most consequential female decisions. The inclusion of her nurse ('vaet-yo'neqet Rivkah') provides both emotional support and practical assistance; this woman will accompany Rebekah into her new household, maintaining continuity with her past. The phrase 'they sent their sister Rebekah' (va-yishleczu et-Rivkah achutam) emphasizes her status as their sister even in departure—familial bonds persist despite geographical separation.

Voice

The narrator, describing Rebekah's departure

Significance

Rebekah's choice consummates the entire narrative arc. She freely chooses the destiny that divine providence and family obligation converge upon—her consent synthesizes human freedom and covenantal purpose.

57So they said, “We will call the girl and ask her opinion.”

58They called Rebekah and asked her, “Will you go with this man?”

59So they sent their sister Rebekah on her way, along with her nurse and Abraham’s servant and his men.

60And they blessed Rebekah and said to her, “Our sister, may you become the mother of thousands upon thousands. May your offspring possess the gates of their enemies.”

61Then Rebekah and her servant girls got ready, mounted the camels, and followed the man. So the servant took Rebekah and left.

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.