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 politeness and respect were paramount. The Hebrew word for "listen" is "שְׁמַע" (shema), which implies not just hearing but understanding and considering. The use of "my lord" (אֲדֹנִי, adoni) is a term of respect, acknowledging Abraham's status and the seriousness of the transaction. This phrase sets the tone for a respectful negotiation, emphasizing the importance of honor and integrity in dealings.

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. A "shekel" (שֶׁקֶל, shekel) was a standard unit of weight and currency in the ancient world. The amount suggests a significant sum, indicating the value of the land and the seriousness of the transaction. Historically, this reflects the practice of weighing silver for transactions, as coinage was not yet in use. This phrase underscores the importance of fair trade and the recognition of value in property transactions.

but what is that between you and me?
This rhetorical question highlights the relationship between Ephron and Abraham. It suggests a gesture of goodwill, implying that the monetary value is secondary to the relationship and mutual respect between the two parties. The phrase can be seen as a customary way to express that the transaction should not hinder their relationship. It reflects the biblical principle of valuing relationships over material wealth, a theme consistent throughout Scripture.

Bury your dead
This phrase is the culmination of the negotiation, focusing on the primary purpose of the transaction: to provide a burial place for Sarah, Abraham's wife. The Hebrew word for "bury" (קָבַר, qabar) signifies the act of laying to rest, which was a significant cultural and religious duty. The emphasis on "your dead" personalizes the transaction, acknowledging Abraham's loss and the importance of honoring the deceased. This reflects the biblical value placed on family, respect for the dead, and the provision of a proper burial, which was seen as an act of love and respect.

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.