The Hittites, an ancient Anatolian people, are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the Canaanite tribes inhabiting the Promised Land before the arrival of the Israelites. Negotiations with the Hittites are notably recorded in the context of Abraham's interactions with them, particularly in the acquisition of a burial site for his wife, Sarah.

Abraham's Purchase of the Cave of Machpelah

The most detailed account of negotiation with the Hittites is found in Genesis 23. After the death of Sarah, Abraham sought to purchase a burial site in the land of Canaan. The Hittites, referred to as the "sons of Heth," were the inhabitants of the region where Abraham resided as a foreigner. Abraham approached them to secure a permanent burial place, demonstrating his faith in God's promise of the land to his descendants.

Genesis 23:3-4 states, "Then Abraham got up from beside his dead wife and said to the Hittites, 'I am a foreigner and an outsider among you. Give me a burial site among you so that I can bury my dead.'"

The Hittites responded with respect and generosity, acknowledging Abraham as a "mighty prince" among them (Genesis 23:6). They offered him the choice of their tombs, but Abraham insisted on purchasing the cave of Machpelah from Ephron the Hittite at full price, ensuring a legal and permanent transaction.

The negotiation process is marked by cultural customs of the time, including polite exchanges and the public presence of witnesses at the city gate. Ephron initially offered the field and cave as a gift, but Abraham insisted on paying the full price, which was agreed upon as four hundred shekels of silver (Genesis 23:15-16). This transaction was significant as it marked the first piece of the Promised Land owned by Abraham and his descendants.

Cultural and Theological Significance

The negotiation with the Hittites highlights several important themes in the biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the importance of legal and public agreements in ancient Near Eastern culture. Abraham's insistence on purchasing the land rather than accepting it as a gift reflects his desire for a legitimate claim to the land, in line with God's covenant promises.

Secondly, the interaction demonstrates the respect and recognition Abraham received from the surrounding peoples, despite being a foreigner. This respect is indicative of God's favor upon him and the fulfillment of the promise that Abraham would be a blessing to the nations (Genesis 12:2-3).

Lastly, the acquisition of the cave of Machpelah as a burial site for Sarah, and later for Abraham himself, Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, and Leah, signifies the patriarchs' faith in God's promise of the land to their descendants. It serves as a tangible expression of their hope and trust in God's covenant.

Other References to the Hittites

Beyond Genesis 23, the Hittites are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Old Testament. They are listed among the nations that Israel was to displace in the conquest of Canaan (Exodus 3:8, 17; Deuteronomy 7:1). King David had interactions with the Hittites, most notably in the account of Uriah the Hittite, one of David's mighty men and the husband of Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11).

The Hittites' presence in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the complex interactions between the Israelites and the surrounding nations, as well as the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through His chosen people.