Genesis 23:2

She died in Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan, and Abraham went out to mourn and to weep for her.

Study Bible

She died
The Hebrew word for "died" is "mût," which signifies the end of physical life. In the context of Sarah, her death marks the conclusion of a life that was pivotal in the unfolding of God's covenant with Abraham. Her passing is not just a personal loss for Abraham but a significant moment in the biblical narrative, highlighting the mortality of even the most faithful servants of God.

in Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron)
Kiriath-arba, later known as Hebron, is a city with deep historical and spiritual significance. The name "Kiriath-arba" means "City of Arba," named after Arba, the greatest man among the Anakim, a race of giants. Hebron is one of the oldest cities in the world and becomes a central location in the biblical narrative. It is here that Abraham settles and establishes a connection with the land promised by God. The mention of both names underscores the continuity and change in the land's history, reflecting God's unfolding plan.

in the land of Canaan
Canaan is the land promised by God to Abraham and his descendants. It represents not just a physical territory but the fulfillment of God's promises. The mention of Canaan situates Sarah's death within the broader context of God's covenantal relationship with Abraham. It is a reminder of the divine promise and the faith journey that Abraham and Sarah undertook.

and Abraham went in
The phrase "went in" suggests a deliberate and intimate action. Abraham's response to Sarah's death is personal and profound. It indicates his deep love and respect for Sarah, as well as his acknowledgment of the gravity of her passing. This action sets the stage for the mourning rituals that follow, emphasizing the importance of honoring the deceased.

to mourn for Sarah
Mourning in the Hebrew context involves a period of lamentation and reflection. The Hebrew word "saphad" conveys a sense of public lament. Abraham's mourning is an expression of his grief and loss, but it also serves as a testament to Sarah's significance in his life and in the fulfillment of God's promises. Mourning is a sacred act, acknowledging the value of life and the pain of separation.

and to weep over her
The act of weeping, "bakah" in Hebrew, is a natural and emotional response to loss. It reflects the depth of Abraham's sorrow and the genuine love he had for Sarah. Weeping is a universal expression of grief, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries. In this context, it underscores the humanity of the patriarchs and matriarchs, reminding us of their relatable experiences and emotions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sarah
The wife of Abraham and mother of Isaac, Sarah is a matriarch in the lineage of Israel. Her death marks a significant moment in the account of Genesis, highlighting her importance in the Abrahamic covenant.

2. Abraham
The patriarch of the Israelites, Abraham is a central figure in Genesis. His mourning for Sarah demonstrates his deep love and respect for her, as well as the human experience of grief.

3. Kiriath-arba (Hebron)
This location is significant as it is in the land of Canaan, the land promised to Abraham and his descendants. Hebron becomes an important city in biblical history, later associated with King David.

4. Canaan
The land promised by God to Abraham and his descendants. It represents the fulfillment of God's promises and the future inheritance of the Israelites.

5. Mourning and Weeping
These actions reflect the cultural and personal expressions of grief in ancient times, showing the depth of Abraham's sorrow and the value placed on life and relationships.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Grief
Grief is a natural and important part of the human experience. Abraham's mourning for Sarah shows that even the faithful experience deep sorrow, and it is appropriate to express this grief.

The Significance of Place
Sarah's death in Canaan underscores the importance of God's promises. Believers can trust that God is faithful to fulfill His promises, even when circumstances seem difficult.

The Legacy of Faith
Sarah's life and death remind us of the impact of a life lived in faith. Her account encourages believers to live faithfully, knowing that their lives contribute to God's unfolding plan.

The Hope Beyond Mourning
While mourning is a part of life, Christians are called to mourn with hope, knowing that death is not the end for those who are in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abraham's response to Sarah's death reflect the cultural practices of mourning in ancient times, and what can we learn from his example about expressing grief today?

2. In what ways does the location of Sarah's death in Canaan connect to God's promises to Abraham, and how does this encourage us to trust in God's promises in our own lives?

3. How does Sarah's life and legacy of faith inspire you to live a life that contributes to God's purposes?

4. How can the Christian hope of resurrection, as mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14, provide comfort and perspective in times of mourning?

5. What practical steps can you take to support someone who is grieving, based on the example of Abraham's mourning for Sarah?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:1-7
This passage details God's promise to Abraham regarding the land of Canaan, connecting Sarah's death in this land to the fulfillment of God's covenant.

Hebrews 11:11-13
This New Testament passage highlights Sarah's faith and her role in the fulfillment of God's promises, connecting her life and death to the broader account of faith in God's promises.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-14
This passage offers a Christian perspective on mourning, encouraging believers to grieve with hope because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.