Genesis 24:22 - As the camels had done drinking, the man took a golden ring of half a shekel weight, and two bracelets for her hands of ten shekels weight of gold,

Generated Verse: Genesis 24:22

What does "Genesis 24:22" mean?


This verse from Genesis 24:22 is part of the story of Abraham's servant finding a wife for Isaac. It describes the servant's initial gift to Rebekah after she has generously offered water to him and his camels. Let's break it down:

"As the camels had done drinking..." This establishes the context. Rebekah has proven her kindness and willingness to work hard by watering a large number of camels, a significant task.

"...the man took a golden ring of half a shekel weight..." This refers to a nose ring (or possibly an earring). The "half a shekel weight" specifies the size and value of the gold used. A shekel was a standard unit of weight, and therefore, of value, in that time. This was a valuable gift.

"...and two bracelets for her hands of ten shekels weight of gold..." The servant also gave Rebekah two bracelets, made of gold, that weighed ten shekels in total (likely five shekels each). This was a significant amount of gold, indicating a substantial gift and a sign of the servant's, and therefore Abraham's, wealth.

Meaning and Significance:

Reward for Kindness: The gifts were a direct reward for Rebekah's act of kindness and hospitality. It demonstrates the importance of these virtues in the culture.
Identifying Worthiness: The servant was looking for a woman who was not only beautiful but also kind, hardworking, and generous. Rebekah's actions demonstrated these qualities, and the gifts were a way of acknowledging her worthiness.
Initial Courtship Gifts: These gifts can be seen as an early form of courtship gifts, indicating the servant's (and indirectly, Isaac's) interest in Rebekah as a potential wife.
Demonstration of Wealth: The gifts showcase the wealth and status of Abraham's household. It demonstrates that Isaac is from a well-to-do family, a desirable trait for a prospective wife.
Symbolic of Blessings: Gold, in many cultures, symbolizes prosperity, wealth, and blessings from God. The gifts can be interpreted as symbolic of the blessings that Rebekah would receive if she joined Abraham's family.

In summary, the verse describes the servant's immediate reward to Rebekah for her kindness, a way of acknowledging her worthiness, and a demonstration of the wealth and status of the family he represents. It is a key moment in the story, setting the stage for the rest of the narrative where Rebekah is chosen to be Isaac's wife.

What categories does "Genesis 24:22" have?