Book of Genesis - Chapter 24 - Verse 2

In this verse, Abraham is instructing his eldest servant, who is in charge of everything he owns, to swear an oath. The act of placing one's hand under another's thigh was a common way of making a solemn promise or oath in ancient times. By asking his servant to place his hand under his thigh, Abraham is ensuring that the oath will be taken seriously and bound by honor. This gesture signifies the importance of the task at hand, which in this case is finding a wife for his son Isaac. Abraham's servant, who is unnamed in the Bible, is being entrusted with a crucial mission to find a suitable wife among Abraham's people, rather than from the Canaanites. Through this act, Abraham is demonstrating the value of loyalty, trust, and responsibility in carrying out important tasks. It also highlights the culture of the time, where oaths were considered sacred and binding, and where loyalty and honor were highly esteemed qualities.

Abraham's command to his eldest servant to place his hand under his thigh in Genesis 24:2 is a fascinating and culturally significant act that requires theological interpretation. The phrase "under my thigh" has led to various interpretations among scholars. Some suggest that it is a way of swearing an oath in the ancient Near East, symbolizing loyalty and commitment. Others believe that it is a form of circumcision, symbolizing the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants. Another interpretation suggests that it may be a reference to the procreative power of the patriarch, as the thigh was seen as a symbol of strength and virility. Overall, this act of placing the hand under the thigh carries deep theological significance and reflects the importance of faithfulness and obedience in God's covenant with Abraham and his descendants.