Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the context of Genesis 24:39?
A: Genesis 24:39 is part of the story where Abraham's servant, Eliezer, recounts his mission to find a wife for Isaac. He expresses concern that the woman he chooses might not be willing to follow him back to Canaan. This shows his humility and awareness that success depends on Hashem's will.
Q: Why did Eliezer say 'Perhaps the woman will not follow me'?
A: Eliezer, as a faithful servant, understood that human efforts alone don't guarantee success. Rashi explains that Eliezer was demonstrating proper humility - he recognized that even with Abraham's blessings and his careful planning, ultimately the outcome was in Hashem's hands (Rashi on Genesis 24:39).
Q: What lesson can we learn from Eliezer's words in this verse?
A: The Talmud (Berachos 4a) teaches that we should always combine our efforts with trust in Hashem. Eliezer's words model this balance - he made thorough preparations but acknowledged that success depends on Divine Providence. This teaches us to do our part while recognizing that outcomes are ultimately from Hashem.
Q: How does this verse relate to Jewish marriage customs?
A: This verse highlights an important principle in Jewish marriage - that both parties must consent freely. The Midrash (Bereishis Rabbah 59:9) notes that Eliezer was concerned about the woman's willingness, showing that forced marriages are against Torah values. This established the Jewish concept of 'kiddushin' requiring mutual consent.
Q: Why is this story about finding a wife for Isaac important in Judaism?
A: The Rambam (Hilchos Ishus 15:2) derives from this story fundamental principles about Jewish marriage. It established the importance of character (chesed) in choosing a spouse, the role of Divine Providence in shidduchim (matches), and proper conduct in marriage arrangements - all foundational to Jewish family life.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Bereshit 24:39) is part of the narrative where Eliezer, Avraham's servant, recounts his mission to find a wife for Yitzchak. He expresses concern that the woman he selects might refuse to follow him back to Canaan. This reflects Eliezer's humility and his awareness of human free will—even when acting on behalf of Avraham, he recognizes that Rivka (or any potential bride) retains the right to decline.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that Eliezer's phrasing ("Perhaps the woman will not follow me") demonstrates his cautious approach. He did not assume that his mission would automatically succeed, despite Avraham's assurance that an angel would guide him (Bereshit 24:7). Rashi emphasizes that Eliezer was concerned about the possibility of failure, highlighting the principle of hishtadlut (human effort) alongside trust in Hashem's plan.
Rambam's Perspective on Divine Providence
Rambam (Hilchot Dei'ot 3:3) teaches that one should not rely on miracles but must take practical steps to achieve a goal. Eliezer's hesitation aligns with this principle—he did not presume divine intervention would override Rivka's free will. His words reflect a balance between faith in Avraham's blessing and the reality of human choice.
Midrashic Insights
Philosophical Implications
The verse underscores a foundational Jewish concept: even when fulfilling a divine mission, human beings must account for uncertainty. Eliezer's humility—referring to Avraham as "my master" and acknowledging potential obstacles—serves as a model for how to approach sacred tasks with both confidence and humility.