While it seems that this is merely a stylistic difference, this discrepancy changes the connotation of the dialogue.
This can be noted in Rashi’s commentary in Parshas Noach. It is understood there, that there is a significant difference between the words “before” and “with.”
Regarding the Torah’s description of Noach and Avraham and the relationship that each tzadik respectively had with the Almighty, the Torah employs a different language by each.
Concerning Noach, the verse says, “These are the generations of Noach—Noach was a righteous man, he was perfect in his generations; Noach walked with G-d.” However, in regard to Avraham, the verse states, “'The Lord, before Whom I walked.”
In one verse the word “with” is employed and in another, the word “before.” Rashi explains the discrepancy as follows:
Text 3
But concerning Avraham, Scripture says (Bereishis, 24:40): “[The Lord] before Whom I walked.” Noach required [G-d’s] support to uphold him [in righteousness], but Avraham strengthened himself and walked in his righteousness by himself.
Rashi, Bereishis 6:9
From the above, it is apparent that the difference between the words, “with” and “before” is not merely cosmetic, but changes the meaning of the verse.
Noach walked with G-d, as G-d was always there for him to lean on, while Avraham walked before Him, since G-d did not need to support him from falling.
According to the distinction that Rashi makes between these words in regard to Noach and Avraham, a similar contrast can be understood in relation to the language used by Avraham and Eliezer.
With and before
In our context, the distinction between the word “with” used by Eliezer, and the word “before” employed by Avraham, about the manner which G-d will intercede in the success of the mission, can be understood simply: “With you” means together with you, while “before you” means prior to your actions.
Meaning, that when Eliezer expressed Avraham’s words to Besuel as, “The Lord...will send His angel with you,” he was indicating that G-d was going to be a “support to uphold him” in the work that Eliezer was to do himself. G-d wasn’t doing the work for Eliezer, he was doing it with him.
However, the language that Avraham himself had said to Eliezer was, “He will send His angel before you.” Connoting, that not only will the angel help in the work that Eliezer was to do in finding a spouse for Yitzchak, but that the angel will also ensure beforehand that he will succeed in this mission. Success was already guaranteed from the onset.
