This verse, Genesis 24:49, is spoken by Abraham's servant (whose name is not mentioned in the text) as he is negotiating with Bethuel and Laban about Rebekah marrying Abraham's son, Isaac. Let's break down what he's saying:
"Now if you will deal kindly and truly with my master, tell me." This is the core request. The servant is asking Bethuel and Laban to be honest and fair in considering his proposal. "Kindly and truly" implies he wants them to act with goodwill and integrity toward Abraham. He's essentially asking: "Are you willing to let Rebekah go and marry Isaac?"
"If not, tell me," This shows the servant is prepared to accept a negative answer. He understands they have the right to refuse.
"that I may turn to the right hand, or to the left." This is the crucial part. It means: "If you refuse, I need to know so I can pursue other options." He's saying that if Rebekah isn't available, he'll look elsewhere for a wife for Isaac. The "right hand" and "left hand" are simply idioms for exploring different directions or possibilities.
In summary, the servant is seeking a clear and honest answer. He wants to know if they will agree to Rebekah marrying Isaac. If not, he needs to be released from his obligation to find her and allowed to seek a bride elsewhere.
The verse demonstrates the servant's diligence, integrity, and respect for the family he is negotiating with. He is careful to be honest and transparent in his dealings and to respect their decision, even if it's not the one he hopes for.
This verse, Genesis 24:49, is spoken by Abraham's servant (whose name is not mentioned in the text) as he is negotiating with Bethuel and Laban about Rebekah marrying Abraham's son, Isaac. Let's break down what he's saying:
"Now if you will deal kindly and truly with my master, tell me." This is the core request. The servant is asking Bethuel and Laban to be honest and fair in considering his proposal. "Kindly and truly" implies he wants them to act with goodwill and integrity toward Abraham. He's essentially asking: "Are you willing to let Rebekah go and marry Isaac?"
"If not, tell me," This shows the servant is prepared to accept a negative answer. He understands they have the right to refuse.
"that I may turn to the right hand, or to the left." This is the crucial part. It means: "If you refuse, I need to know so I can pursue other options." He's saying that if Rebekah isn't available, he'll look elsewhere for a wife for Isaac. The "right hand" and "left hand" are simply idioms for exploring different directions or possibilities.
In summary, the servant is seeking a clear and honest answer. He wants to know if they will agree to Rebekah marrying Isaac. If not, he needs to be released from his obligation to find her and allowed to seek a bride elsewhere.
The verse demonstrates the servant's diligence, integrity, and respect for the family he is negotiating with. He is careful to be honest and transparent in his dealings and to respect their decision, even if it's not the one he hopes for.