Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 24:49 mean in simple terms?
A: In Genesis 24:49, Eliezer (Abraham's servant) is asking Laban and Bethuel to give him a clear answer about whether they will allow Rebecca to marry Isaac. He says, 'If you will deal kindly and truly with my master (Abraham), tell me; if not, tell me, so I may turn to the right or left'—meaning he will either proceed or seek another path. Rashi explains that Eliezer wanted an honest answer so he could decide his next steps without delay.
Q: Why is kindness ('chesed') and truth ('emet') mentioned in Genesis 24:49?
A: Eliezer emphasizes 'chesed' (kindness) and 'emet' (truth) because these are core Jewish values. The Midrash teaches that kindness reflects Abraham's trait of hospitality, while truth ensures honesty in agreements. By mentioning both, Eliezer appeals to their moral responsibility to respond sincerely to Abraham's request for a wife for Isaac.
Q: What can we learn from Eliezer's approach in Genesis 24:49?
A: Eliezer teaches us the importance of clarity and honesty in communication. Instead of pressuring or manipulating, he asks for a straightforward answer so he can act accordingly. The Talmud (Bava Metzia 87a) praises this approach, showing that transparency and respect are essential in negotiations and relationships.
Q: How does Genesis 24:49 apply to decision-making today?
A: This verse reminds us to seek clear answers before making decisions, just as Eliezer did. The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 1:7) teaches that we should avoid ambiguity and act with integrity. Whether in business or personal matters, we should ask for honest feedback and be prepared to adjust our plans based on the response.
Q: Why does Eliezer say 'turn to the right or left' in Genesis 24:49?
A: The phrase 'turn to the right or left' is a Hebrew idiom meaning to explore other options. Rashi explains that Eliezer was saying, 'If you refuse, I will look elsewhere for a wife for Isaac.' This shows his determination to fulfill Abraham's mission while respecting the free will of Rebecca's family.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bereshit 24:49) is part of the narrative where Eliezer, Avraham's servant, speaks to Lavan and Betuel after arriving in Charan to find a wife for Yitzchak. Eliezer recounts the miraculous events that led him to Rivka and now seeks their consent for her to return with him.
Meaning of "Chesed ve'Emet" (Kindness and Truth)
Rashi explains that "chesed" (kindness) refers to acts beyond the letter of the law, while "emet" (truth) denotes fulfilling a promise faithfully. Eliezer is asking whether they will act with both generosity and integrity in allowing Rivka to marry Yitzchak.
"Turn to the Right or to the Left"
Rashi interprets this phrase as Eliezer saying he will seek another solution if they refuse—either by finding a different wife for Yitzchak or returning to Avraham empty-handed. The right and left symbolize alternative paths.
Eliezer's Diplomacy
The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 60:9) highlights Eliezer's wisdom in presenting his request. By framing it as a test of their "chesed ve'emet," he appeals to their moral conscience rather than demanding Rivka outright.
Malbim notes that Eliezer avoids pressuring them, instead giving them a clear choice—either agree or refuse openly so he can act accordingly.