Bible Figure
Rebekah
Rebekah was the wife of Isaac and mother of the twins Esau and Jacob, through whom the patriarchal covenant line continued.
Biography
Abraham sent his servant to his relatives to find a wife for Isaac. At a well the servant prayed for a providential sign, and Rebekah's generous offer to water both him and his camels identified her as the woman sought. She willingly left her family and married Isaac. After years of barrenness Isaac prayed, and Rebekah conceived twins. God told her that two nations were in her womb and that the older would serve the younger. Rebekah favored Jacob while Isaac favored Esau. When Isaac prepared to bless Esau, Rebekah arranged for Jacob to impersonate his brother and receive the blessing. She then urged Jacob to flee to her family because Esau intended to kill him.
Biblical Significance
Rebekah is a major matriarch through whom God's promise to Abraham continued. Her story emphasizes providential guidance and God's announced purpose concerning Jacob, while also showing the painful family consequences of favoritism and deception.