Genesis 23:15

"Listen to me, my lord. The land is worth four hundred shekels of silver, but what is that between you and me? Bury your dead."

Study Bible

Listen to me, my lord.
This phrase reflects the cultural norms of ancient Near Eastern negotiations, where respect and honorific titles were commonly used. The speaker, Ephron the Hittite, addresses Abraham with deference, acknowledging his status and wealth. This interaction occurs in the context of Abraham seeking a burial site for his wife Sarah, highlighting the importance of respectful dialogue in transactions.

The land is worth four hundred shekels of silver,
The mention of "four hundred shekels of silver" provides insight into the economic practices of the time. Shekels were a standard unit of weight and currency in the ancient world. This amount suggests a significant sum, indicating the value of the land. Archaeological findings suggest that silver was a common medium of exchange, and this transaction reflects the formalized nature of property sales in that era.

but what is that between you and me?
This phrase suggests a customary practice of bargaining, where the initial offer might be higher than the expected final price. Ephron's statement can be seen as a rhetorical device, implying that the relationship between him and Abraham transcends monetary concerns. It reflects the social dynamics of the time, where personal relationships often influenced business dealings.

Bury your dead.
The phrase underscores the urgency and importance of providing a proper burial, a significant cultural and religious practice in ancient times. It reflects the respect for the deceased and the need for a designated burial site. This moment is pivotal in the narrative, as it marks the first piece of the Promised Land that Abraham legally owns, fulfilling part of God's covenant promise. The act of securing a burial site also foreshadows the future possession of the land by Abraham's descendants.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abraham
The patriarch of the Israelites, who is seeking a burial place for his wife, Sarah.

2. Ephron the Hittite
The owner of the field and cave of Machpelah, who offers to sell the land to Abraham.

3. Sarah
Abraham's wife, whose death prompts the negotiation for a burial site.

4. The Hittites
A group of people living in Canaan, among whom Abraham resides as a foreigner.

5. The Cave of Machpelah
The burial site that Abraham wishes to purchase for Sarah, located in Hebron.

Teaching Points

Integrity in Transactions
Abraham's insistence on paying the full price for the land demonstrates integrity and respect in dealings with others. As Christians, we are called to conduct our business with honesty and fairness.

Faith in God's Promises
Despite being a foreigner, Abraham's purchase of the land is an act of faith in God's promise to give his descendants the land. We are encouraged to trust in God's promises, even when they seem distant or unfulfilled.

Respect for the Dead
The care Abraham takes in securing a proper burial site for Sarah reflects the importance of honoring loved ones. This teaches us to value and respect the lives and memories of those who have passed.

Community Relations
Abraham's interaction with the Hittites shows the importance of maintaining good relationships with those around us, even if they do not share our faith. We are called to be peacemakers and to live harmoniously with others.

The Cost of Commitment
The price of four hundred shekels of silver represents a significant investment. Our commitment to God's promises and purposes may require sacrifices and investments of time, resources, and energy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abraham's negotiation with Ephron reflect his character and faith in God's promises?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate integrity and fairness in our own transactions and dealings with others?

3. How does the purchase of the burial site connect to the broader theme of God's promises to Abraham and his descendants?

4. What lessons can we learn from Abraham's interaction with the Hittites about living in a community with those who may not share our beliefs?

5. How can we apply the principle of honoring and respecting the dead in our own lives and communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:7
God's promise to Abraham about the land, highlighting the significance of Abraham purchasing a piece of it.

Hebrews 11:9-10
Abraham's faith in God's promises, living as a foreigner in the land of promise.

Acts 7:5
Stephen's speech, which references Abraham's lack of land ownership, emphasizing his faith and God's promises.

1 Chronicles 21:24
David's insistence on paying for the threshing floor, paralleling Abraham's desire to pay for the burial site.

Matthew 27:57-60
Joseph of Arimathea's purchase of a tomb for Jesus, reflecting the importance of burial sites in biblical accounts.