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Genesis 24:64 - Modesty meets destined match

Genesis 24:64 - בראשית 24:64

Hebrew Text

וַתִּשָּׂא רִבְקָה אֶת־עֵינֶיהָ וַתֵּרֶא אֶת־יִצְחָק וַתִּפֹּל מֵעַל הַגָּמָל׃

English Translation

And Rivqa lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Yiżĥaq, she descended from the camel.

Transliteration

Vatisa Rivka et eineha vatera et Yitzhak vatipol me'al hagamal.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּשָּׂ֤א רִבְקָה֙ אֶת־עֵינֶ֔יהָ וַתֵּ֖רֶא אֶת־יִצְחָ֑ק וַתִּפֹּ֖ל מֵעַ֥ל הַגָּמָֽל׃
וַתִּשָּׂ֤א רִבְקָה֙ אֶת־עֵינֶ֔יהָ וַתֵּ֖רֶא אֶת־יִצְחָ֑ק וַתִּפֹּ֖ל מֵעַ֥ל הַגָּמָֽל׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Significance of Rivka's Actions

The verse (Bereshit 24:64) describes Rivka's reaction upon seeing Yitzchak for the first time. Rashi explains that she "descended from the camel" in an act of great modesty (צניעות), as she perceived Yitzchak's elevated spiritual stature. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 60:15) adds that she saw him resembling an angel, prompting her immediate dismount as a sign of respect.

Why She Fell from the Camel

The Talmud (Moed Katan 9b) notes that camels were often ridden in a straddling position, making Rivka's descent particularly noticeable. The Kli Yakar emphasizes that her fall was not accidental but deliberate—she was so overwhelmed by Yitzchak's holiness that she could not remain seated. The Malbim further explains that this demonstrated her innate righteousness, as she instinctively recognized kedusha (holiness).

Symbolism of the Camel

  • Materialism: The camel (גמל) symbolizes worldly burdens (as it carries loads). Rivka's descent represents her rejection of materialism in favor of spiritual connection (based on the Baal HaTurim).
  • Avraham's Servant: The camel was brought by Eliezer, hinting at Rivka's transition from Eliezer's influence to Yitzchak's (Sforno).

Yitzchak's Appearance

Ramban suggests Yitzchak was returning from prayer at Mount Moriah (the site of the Akeidah), radiating divine light. The Or HaChayim connects this to his name יצחק (laughter), symbolizing the joy of divine service that Rivka perceived.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Megillah 13b
The verse is cited in the context of discussing the modesty of Rivqa (Rebecca) and her immediate recognition of Yitzchak (Isaac).
📖 Bava Metzia 87a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the hospitality shown by Avraham's servant and Rivqa's actions upon seeing Yitzchak.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Rivka fall off the camel when she saw Yitzchak?
A: Rashi explains that Rivka saw Yitzchak's great spiritual stature and was so awed that she lost her balance and fell from the camel. This teaches us about Yitzchak's lofty spiritual level and Rivka's sensitivity to recognize holiness.
Q: What is the significance of Rivka covering herself with a veil after seeing Yitzchak?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 60:15) teaches that Rivka covered herself out of modesty when she realized she was meeting her future husband. This demonstrates the Jewish value of tzniut (modesty), especially in relationships between men and women.
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Rivka lifted her eyes before seeing Yitzchak?
A: The Talmud (Bava Metzia 87a) notes that lifting one's eyes signifies prayer. Rivka may have been praying to recognize her destined match. This teaches us the importance of praying for divine guidance in important life decisions like marriage.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Rivka's reaction to seeing Yitzchak?
A: The Rambam teaches that Rivka's reaction shows us how one should approach marriage - with reverence and recognition of the spiritual dimension. Just as Rivka was moved by Yitzchak's holiness, we should seek partners who inspire us spiritually.
Q: Why does the Torah specify that Rivka was on a camel when she saw Yitzchak?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 60:14) explains that camels were associated with Avraham's household (as seen earlier in the chapter). This detail emphasizes that Rivka was entering Avraham's family and their spiritual legacy, marking the continuity of the Jewish people.