Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the meaning of Genesis 24:25?
A: In Genesis 24:25, Rivka (Rebecca) tells Eliezer, Avraham's servant, that there is plenty of straw and fodder for his camels and a place for him to stay. This shows her kindness and hospitality, which are important Jewish values. Rashi explains that her offer demonstrated her suitability to marry Yitzchak (Isaac) because she embodied the trait of chesed (loving-kindness).
Q: Why is Rivka's hospitality important in this verse?
A: Rivka's hospitality in Genesis 24:25 is significant because it reflects the middah (character trait) of chesed, which is central to Jewish values. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 60:5) highlights that her actions proved she was worthy to become part of Avraham's family, as Avraham himself was known for his hospitality. Her kindness was a sign of her righteousness.
Q: What can we learn from Rivka's words in Genesis 24:25?
A: From Rivka's words in Genesis 24:25, we learn the importance of welcoming guests and providing for their needs. The Talmud (Shabbat 127a) teaches that hospitality (hachnasat orchim) is one of the greatest mitzvot. Rivka's immediate offer of food, shelter, and care for the camels sets an example for how we should treat others with generosity and thoughtfulness.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: This verse teaches us to practice hospitality and kindness in our daily lives, just as Rivka did. The Rambam (Hilchot Avel 14:1) emphasizes that helping others—whether through food, shelter, or comfort—is a fundamental Jewish obligation. By following Rivka's example, we strengthen our communities and fulfill the Torah's values of chesed.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bereshit 24:25) is part of the narrative where Eliezer, Avraham's servant, encounters Rivka at the well. Rivka offers hospitality to Eliezer, demonstrating her kindness and suitability to become Yitzchak's wife. The verse reflects her generosity and the divine orchestration of events leading to the marriage.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that Rivka's statement, "We have both straw and provender enough", indicates the abundance in her father Betuel's household. The mention of "straw and provender" highlights that they had ample resources not only for people but also for animals, showing their hospitality extended to all of Eliezer's needs, including his camels.
Midrashic Insights
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchot De'ot (5:3), the Rambam discusses the importance of hospitality as a reflection of kindness (chesed). Rivka's offer exemplifies the ideal of welcoming guests with warmth and abundance, a principle later codified in Jewish law.
Linguistic Nuances
The phrase "גַּם־תֶּבֶן גַּם־מִסְפּוֹא" (both straw and provender) uses the word "גַּם" (also) twice, suggesting an emphasis on the completeness of her offer. This repetition underscores her eagerness to provide for every possible need, aligning with the Talmudic principle (Shabbat 127a) that hachnasat orchim is greater than receiving the Divine Presence.
Practical Lessons