Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Abraham, originally named Abram, is a central figure in the Bible, revered as the patriarch of the Israelites, Ishmaelites, Edomites, and Midianites. His death and burial are significant events that mark the end of an era in the biblical narrative. The account of Abraham's death and burial is primarily found in the Book of Genesis. Biblical Account: Abraham lived a long and full life, reaching the age of 175 years. The Bible records his death in Genesis 25:7-8: "Abraham lived a total of 175 years. Then Abraham breathed his last and died at a ripe old age, an old man and full of years; and he was gathered to his people" . This phrase, "gathered to his people," is often understood to mean that Abraham was reunited with his ancestors in death, a common expression in the Hebrew Scriptures indicating the afterlife or burial with one's kin. Burial: Abraham's burial is described in Genesis 25:9-10: "His sons Isaac and Ishmael buried him in the cave of Machpelah, in the field of Ephron son of Zohar the Hittite, which is near Mamre, in the field that Abraham had bought from the Hittites. There Abraham was buried with his wife Sarah" . The cave of Machpelah, located near Hebron, was a significant burial site that Abraham had purchased as a family tomb, as detailed in Genesis 23. This purchase ensured that Abraham and his descendants would have a permanent burial place in the Promised Land. Significance: The burial of Abraham by his sons Isaac and Ishmael is noteworthy, as it signifies a moment of unity between the two brothers, despite the earlier tensions between their mothers, Sarah and Hagar. This act of coming together to honor their father highlights the importance of family and reconciliation in the biblical narrative. The cave of Machpelah, also known as the Cave of the Patriarchs, remains a site of great historical and religious significance. It is traditionally considered the burial place of not only Abraham and Sarah but also Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, and Leah, making it a revered location for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. Cultural and Theological Context: Abraham's death marks the transition from the era of the patriarchs to the next generation, led by his son Isaac. The narrative underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham regarding his descendants and the land. Abraham's life and legacy continue to be a foundational element of faith for the Abrahamic religions, symbolizing faith, obedience, and the covenant relationship with God. Subtopics Abraham is Blessed by Melchizedek Abraham: Age of, at Different Periods Abraham: Ancestors of, Idolatrous Abraham: Deferring to Lot, Chooses Hebron Abraham: He Purchases a Place for Her Burial, and Buries Her in a Cave Abraham: His Questions About the Destruction of the Righteous and Wicked in Sodom Abraham: How Regarded by his Descendants Abraham: Independence of, in Character Abraham: Lives in Gerar; Deceives Abimelech Concerning Sarah, his Wife Abraham: Lives in Ur, But Removes to Haran Abraham: Provides a Wife for Isaac Abraham: Sarah, his Wife, Dies Abraham: Sends Hagar and Ishmael Away Abraham: Trial of his Faith in the offering of Isaac Abraham: Witnesses the Destruction of Sodom Miscegenation: Forbidden by Abraham Related Terms |