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I. Abraham, in this matter, is evidently guided by a higher wisdom than his own; although he is left apparently to consult and act for himself. Both Abraham and his servant regard the transaction in which they are now engaged as essentially connected with the covenant of which Isaac, or rather Isaac's seed, was to be the heir. They look upon the arrangement of this marriage as an important step in the way of the fulfilment of the covenant. And hence, by an appeal to the covenant and to its seal, they hallow it.

II. Such being the spirit in which this commission is given by the aged patriarch, and undertaken by his confidential servant — the execution of it is in entire harmony with its commencement. The preparation for the journey is simple; the execution of it is safe. He forms his plan of conduct — the most expedient and most likely to be successful that could well be devised. He spreads it out before God. And he humbly seeks Divine countenance and co-operation.

III. It is a striking and singular thing that now presents itself. The incident at the well, &c.

IV. The preliminaries of this affair having passed off so auspiciously — so manifestly, as all the parties concerned acknowledge, under the immediate and supernatural providence of God — the negotiation proceeds happily to its issue, and the marriage-treaty is simply and satisfactorily concluded.

V. Thus, as to all that is essential to it, the treaty of marriage is fully ratified, according to all the usages of Eastern hospitality, and in a sense, too, with all the munificence of princely state. It is now merely a question of time and circumstance — as to when and how the treaty is to be carried out.

VI. And now the strange embassy is well ended. The journey back to Canaan is without adventure or interruption. The caravan, with its attendant camels and bands of servants, is drawing near to the place where Abraham's tents are pitched. What tumultuous thoughts are filling the bosom of the young stranger! Her venerable friend is not unmoved himself. The first glimpse of his master's encampment, in the distance afar off, stirs his soul to its warmest depths. He has right joyous news to impart to the aged pilgrim; he has a gracious daughter to present to him. And that daughter — may she not well be agitated as she approaches the unknown scene of the great crisis of her life, in profoundest darkness as to what the colour of that life is to be? What a meeting on that calm summer's night! It is faith meeting faith — faith venturous and bold, meeting faith meditative and meek!

(R. S. Candlish, D. D.)

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KJV: And Abraham was old, and well stricken in age: and the LORD had blessed Abraham in all things.

WEB: Abraham was old, and well stricken in age. Yahweh had blessed Abraham in all things.