Genesis 24:29-61

"Another striking feature of this story is that after introducing the new characters of Laban and his household, the writer allows the servant again to retell the narrative (Genesis 24:34-39). But as with most repetitions in biblical narrative, the retelling is not a mere repeating. It is rather a reassertion of the central points of the first narrative. . . . As we overhear the servant recount more details, we see that the miracle of God’s provision was even more grand than that suggested in the narrative itself." [Note: Sailhamer, "Genesis," p. 177.]

Repeating an event confirmed its truthfulness in Scripture (cf. Genesis 41:32).

It was customary in Hurrian society to consult the bride before completing the marriage plans (Genesis 24:58-60). Also the brother took the lead in giving his sister in marriage. Note that Laban, Rebekah’s brother, was the principal negotiator who represented the family rather than Bethuel, her father (cf. Genesis 24:50), or her mother (Genesis 24:53; Genesis 24:55; cf. Genesis 34:11-17; Genesis 42:1-3). Another view is that Bethuel was simply too old or was under his wife’s control, as Rebekah later "organized" Isaac. [Note: Wenham, Genesis 16-50, p. 149.] The description of the family farewell also reflects Laban’s leadership (Genesis 24:59-60). [Note: See West, pp. 67-68; and Speiser, pp. 184-85.] Rebekah demonstrated her faith in Abraham’s God by decisively choosing to leave her family to marry Isaac (cf. the similar choices of Abraham and Ruth; Ruth 1:16).