Topical Encyclopedia The Sons of Heth, also known as the Hittites, are a significant group mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily within the context of the patriarchal narratives. They are descendants of Heth, who was a son of Canaan, the son of Ham, as outlined in the Table of Nations in Genesis 10:15. The Hittites are one of the many Canaanite tribes that inhabited the land of Canaan before the arrival of the Israelites.Biblical References and Historical Context The Sons of Heth are first mentioned in Genesis 23, where they play a crucial role in the narrative of Abraham's acquisition of a burial site for his wife, Sarah. Abraham approaches the Hittites to purchase the cave of Machpelah, which is located in Hebron. The Hittites, recognizing Abraham as a "mighty prince" among them, offer him the choice of their tombs. However, Abraham insists on purchasing the land, and Ephron the Hittite sells him the field and the cave for four hundred shekels of silver. This transaction is significant as it marks the first piece of the Promised Land owned by Abraham and his descendants. Genesis 23:10-11 states: "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, 'No, my lord. Hear me: I give you the field, and I give you the cave that is in it. I give it to you in the presence of my people. Bury your dead.'" The Hittites are also mentioned in the context of Esau's marriages. In Genesis 26:34-35, Esau marries two Hittite women, Judith and Basemath, which causes grief to his parents, Isaac and Rebekah. This intermarriage with the Canaanite tribes, including the Hittites, is portrayed negatively, as it goes against the covenantal lineage that God established through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Cultural and Theological Significance The Sons of Heth, as part of the broader Canaanite culture, were known for their advanced civilization and influence in the ancient Near East. The Hittites, in particular, were a powerful group with a well-established kingdom in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), although the biblical Hittites are often considered to be a distinct group residing in Canaan. From a theological perspective, the interactions between the patriarchs and the Hittites highlight the theme of God's promise and provision. Abraham's purchase of the cave of Machpelah is a testament to his faith in God's promise to give his descendants the land of Canaan. Despite being a foreigner and sojourner, Abraham's respectful dealings with the Hittites demonstrate his integrity and the respect he commanded among the people of the land. Later References and Legacy The Hittites continue to appear in the biblical narrative during the conquest of Canaan under Joshua. They are listed among the nations that the Israelites are commanded to drive out of the Promised Land (Exodus 3:8, Joshua 3:10). The presence of the Hittites in the land serves as a backdrop to the unfolding account of Israel's establishment as a nation set apart for God's purposes. In the historical books, the Hittites are mentioned as part of the military forces of King David. Uriah the Hittite, one of David's mighty men, is perhaps the most notable Hittite in the biblical narrative. His account, intertwined with that of Bathsheba, is a poignant reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of sin (2 Samuel 11). Overall, the Sons of Heth, or the Hittites, are an integral part of the biblical narrative, providing context and contrast to the unfolding account of God's covenant with Israel. Their interactions with the patriarchs and later with the nation of Israel underscore the themes of faith, promise, and the fulfillment of God's plans in history. |