Genesis 24:33

33 Then food was placed in front of him. But he said, "I won't eat until I've told you what I have to say." "Then tell us," Laban said.

Genesis 24:33 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 24:33

And there was set [meat] before them to eat
By the order of Bethuel or Laban, or both; or, "afterwards was set" ^F12; that is after care had been taken the camels, then food being provided was set before the men to refresh them: but he said, I will not eat until I have told mine errand;
or, "spoke my words" ^F13; delivered the message he was sent with, and declared the business he came about; which shows him to be a diligent faithful servant, who had his master's interest at heart, and preferred it to his necessary food: and he said;
either Bethuel or Laban, for both were present, to whom the servant directed his discourse, ( Genesis 24:47 Genesis 24:50 ) ; perhaps Laban spoke in the name of his father, and bid him speak on;
go on with his discourse until he had said all he had to say, signifying that they were ready to give attention to him.

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FOOTNOTES:

F12 (Mvyyw) "post appositum", Drusius, Schmidt.
F13 (yrbd ytrbd) "donec loquar sermones meos", V. L. "vel mea verba", Pagninus, Montanus, Piscator.

Genesis 24:33 In-Context

31 "The LORD has given you his blessing," he said. "So come. Why are you standing out here? I've prepared my house for you. I also have a place for the camels."

32 So the man went to the house. The camels were unloaded. Straw and feed were brought for the camels. And water was brought for him and his men to wash their feet.

33 Then food was placed in front of him. But he said, "I won't eat until I've told you what I have to say." "Then tell us," Laban said.

34 So he said, "I am Abraham's servant.

35 The LORD has blessed my master greatly. He has become wealthy. The LORD has given him sheep and cattle. He has given him silver and gold. He has also given him male and female servants, and camels and donkeys.