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 24:14KJV
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Genesis 24:14 (KJV)

What does Genesis 24:14 mean?

Genesis 24:14 describes a servant praying for a clear sign to identify the right woman for Isaac: the servant asks God that the woman who offers both him and his camels water will be the one chosen for Isaac. This request is meant to show that God is showing kindness to Abraham, the servant’s master, by guiding him to the right person.

In this verse, Abraham’s servant is at a well, seeking a wife for Isaac, and he is speaking to God in prayer. The servant asks for a specific test: he will ask a young woman for water, and if she not only gives him a drink but also offers to water his camels, he will know she is the one God has appointed. This sets up the story’s next events and highlights the servant’s reliance on God’s guidance.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 24:14

  • חֶסֶד (chesed, H2617): This word is often translated as "kindness" or "steadfast love." Here, it emphasizes the servant’s hope that God will show loyal love and faithfulness to Abraham by helping him succeed in his task.
  • יַעַר (ya'ar, H8248): This verb means "to give to drink" or "to water." The servant’s request that the woman offer water to the camels as well as to him shows a sign of generosity and hospitality, qualities valued in the culture.
  • הִכַּח (hikach, H3198): Translated as "appointed," this word carries the sense of someone being shown or proven to be the right choice. The servant is asking God to make it clear who the right woman is, not just through chance but through a meaningful action.

Why Genesis 24:14 matters

  • Genesis 24:14 clarifies that the servant is not just looking for any woman, but for one who shows unusual kindness and willingness to serve, which would be a sign of good character.
  • The verse highlights the servant’s dependence on God’s guidance rather than his own judgment, showing a model of prayer and trust.
  • This moment sets up the dramatic meeting between Rebekah and the servant, a key turning point in the story of Isaac’s family and the fulfillment of God’s promises to Abraham.