Genesis 24:32 - Kindness precedes marriage matchmaking

Context of the Verse

This verse (Bereshit 24:32) describes the actions of Lavan, Rivka's brother, when Eliezer, Avraham's servant, arrives at their home. Eliezer had just recounted the miraculous signs that led him to Rivka as a potential wife for Yitzchak. Lavan's hospitality is highlighted here, though later commentaries note the contrast between his initial welcoming demeanor and his true character.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi notes that Lavan's actions were motivated by his greed upon seeing the jewelry Eliezer had given Rivka (Bereshit 24:30). The phrase "וַיְפַתַּח הַגְּמַלִּים" ("and he ungirded his camels") is interpreted by Rashi to mean that Lavan personally attended to the camels, despite being a person of stature, because of his eagerness to impress Eliezer, whom he perceived as wealthy.

Midrashic Insights

• The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 60:7) contrasts Lavan's hospitality with Avraham's. While Avraham offered food and water to his guests before tending to his animals (Bereshit 18:7-8), Lavan prioritized the camels, revealing his materialistic nature.
• Another Midrash suggests that Lavan's excessive attention to the camels—giving them both straw (teven) and provender (mispō)—was unnecessary, as camels typically require only one type of feed. This hints at his attempt to appear overly generous.

Rambam's Perspective on Hospitality

In Hilchot Avel (14:2), the Rambam emphasizes the importance of genuine hospitality, a key trait of Avraham's household. Lavan's actions, while outwardly hospitable, lacked the sincerity and selflessness that define true chesed (kindness).

Symbolism of Washing Feet

The verse mentions that Lavan provided water to wash the feet of Eliezer and his men. In Talmudic times (see Yoma 4b), washing feet was a sign of respect for guests. However, some commentators suggest that Lavan's gesture was superficial, as his later actions (e.g., deceiving Yaakov) reveal his true character.

Contrast with Avraham's Values

This episode underscores the difference between Avraham's legacy of sincere kindness and Lavan's self-serving behavior. The Torah subtly critiques Lavan by contrasting his actions with those of Avraham’s servant, who acted with humility and devotion to his mission (see Malbim on Bereshit 24:33).