Abraham was becoming very old. He wished before his death to see Isaac happily married. Therefore he called his faithful servant Eliezer and said. "Go to the country from where I came, and from among my people bring back a wife for my son Isaac."Abraham was becoming very old. He wished before his death to see Isaac happily married. Therefore he called his faithful servant Eliezer and said. "Go to the country from where I came, and from among my people bring back a wife for my son Isaac."
In preparation for the journey, Eliezer loaded ten camels with rich gifts. Then he departed for Haran. in Mesopotamia, the place where Abraham had lived before he came to Chanaan.
Upon arriving in Haran, Eliezer made his camels lie down near a well where each evening the women came to draw water. He begged God to let him know which of the women should be Isaac's bride.
Eliezer prayed, "When I say to the one whom You want Isaac to marry. 'Let down your pitcher, that I may drink'. please make her answer. 'Drink, and I will give your camels drink also'. In this way I shall be sure that I have chosen the right wife for Isaac."
Almost before Eliezer had finished praying, a young maiden arrived carrying a pitcher on her shoulder. She went down to the well and filled her pitcher. She was preparing to return home when Eliezer went near and said to her, "Please let me drink from your pitcher."
The girl replied. "Drink, my lord." at the same time quickly lowering the pitcher upon her arm. Then she hastened to fill it once more, saying, "I will draw water for your camels. that they may also drink."
Upon hearing her answer, Eliezer was filled with great joy. "Whose daughter are you?" he inquired. "Tell me, is there room in your father's house for me to stay tonight?"
The girl answered, "I am Rebecca, daughter of one of Nachor's sons. In our house there is room for you and straw for your camels."
Eliezer bowed down and praised God. Then taking earrings and bracelets, he gave them to Rebecca as gifts.
Rebecca ran home to tell her family about Eliezer, and about all that had taken place at the well.
- from My Bible History in Pictures, by Bishop Louis LaRavoire Morrow, D.D., 1934; it has the Imprimatur of Archbishop Michael J O'Doherty of Manila, Philippines