Rivka

Today we talked about what about Rivka is emphasized in Perek 24. First is her lineage. We mentioned that this is very important because it shows that she is from the same roots as Avraham. This also tells us she is from the same "chosen" group descended from Shet. She also is willing to tackle a problem head on. If she sees a problem, then she has no qualms to put herself out and finish the job. This is a good quality to have in the future when she and Yitzchak continue Avraham's mission of spreading ethical monotheism and continuing the line with good values. She can be considered an "activist" for what she believes in.

When you see it like this, one can't help but notice the similarities between Rivka and Avraham. Both of them are modest yet outgoing. They are willing to take the weight of the world on their shoulders for the sake of the "greater good".

Now, this is all well and good, however there is something that bothers me. Rivka is giving Eliezer and the camels water. This means 200 trips to and from the well. This is an extreme sacrifice on her part. She could be doing many other things and yet she is helping this stranger. My question is what is the real lesson here? Is it really "you have to help people in need" or is it "you have to go out of your way to help people"? I feel this is an important distinction. If it is that you just have to help people, then if someone asks for something you help them and then if you feel like it you go beyond that. If you have to go out of your way, then what is the limit? Obviously you shouldn't risk your life, but what about small injuries, punishment, or loss of time?