Topical Encyclopedia Zohar is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the patriarchal narratives. He is identified as the father of Ephron the Hittite, a significant character in the account of Abraham's acquisition of a burial site for his wife, Sarah.Biblical References: Zohar is mentioned in the Book of Genesis, where his son Ephron plays a crucial role in the transaction between Abraham and the Hittites. The primary reference to Zohar is found in Genesis 23:8-10 : "And he said to them, 'If you are willing to let me bury my dead, listen to me and plead with Ephron son of Zohar on my behalf to sell me the cave of Machpelah that belongs to him; it is at the end of his field. Let him sell it to me in your presence for the full price as a burial site.' Now Ephron was sitting among the sons of Heth. And in the presence of all the Hittites who had come to the gate of his city, Ephron the Hittite answered Abraham." Historical and Cultural Context: Zohar, as the father of Ephron, is part of the Hittite community that inhabited the region of Canaan during the time of the patriarchs. The Hittites were one of several groups living in the land, and they played a significant role in the interactions with the Hebrew patriarchs. The mention of Zohar and his son Ephron highlights the cultural and legal practices of the time, particularly concerning land transactions and burial customs. The Hittites, known for their advanced legal systems and treaties, were a powerful group in the ancient Near East. The transaction between Abraham and Ephron, facilitated by Zohar's lineage, reflects the formal and communal nature of property agreements in Hittite society. The negotiation at the city gate, a common practice for legal matters, underscores the importance of public witness and community involvement in such dealings. Theological Significance: While Zohar himself is not a central figure in the biblical narrative, his connection to Ephron places him within the broader account of God's covenant with Abraham. The purchase of the cave of Machpelah, facilitated by Ephron, becomes a significant event in the history of the patriarchs. It marks the first piece of the Promised Land that Abraham legally owns, serving as a tangible sign of God's promise to give the land to Abraham's descendants. The interaction between Abraham and the Hittites, including Zohar's family, also illustrates the theme of peaceful coexistence and negotiation between the chosen people and the surrounding nations. It highlights the importance of integrity, respect, and fairness in dealings with others, values that are consistent with the biblical portrayal of righteous living. Genealogical Note: Zohar's mention in the genealogy of the Hittites provides insight into the interconnectedness of various peoples in the biblical narrative. While the Bible does not provide extensive details about Zohar's life or character, his inclusion in the genealogy underscores the historical and relational context of the patriarchal accounts. The genealogical records serve to anchor the biblical events in a real-world setting, providing a framework for understanding the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through history. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 23:8And he communed with them, saying, If it be your mind that I should bury my dead out of my sight; hear me, and entreat for me to Ephron the son of Zohar, Nave's Topical Index Genesis 25:9 Library Appendix D. Letter Lvii. To Pammachius on the Best Method of Translating. The Death of Abraham Chapter xxv Ancestors of the Blessed virgin The Immaculate Conception Selections from the Work against Heresies by Irenaeus, Bishop of ... The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Resources Major World Religions ' Article Index | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Kabbalah? | GotQuestions.org What is Catharism? | GotQuestions.org Zohar: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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