Key Figures — Genesis 23

3 figures

1. Abraham

   Patriarch of the Israelite nation and husband of Sarah.

   In this chapter, Abraham mourns the death of his wife Sarah and negotiates the purchase of a burial site, the cave of Machpelah, from the Hittites.

   Related passages

   • Genesis Chapter 12 (God's call to Abraham)
   • Genesis Chapter 17 (God's covenant with Abraham)

   • #Abraham
   • #Patriarch
   • #Faith

2. Sarah

   Wife of Abraham and matriarch of the Israelite nation.

   Sarah's death prompts Abraham to secure a permanent burial site in Canaan, signifying the beginning of the fulfillment of God's promise of land to Abraham's descendants.

   Related passages

   • Genesis Chapter 17 (Sarah's name change and promise of Isaac)
   • Hebrews Chapter 11 (Sarah's faith commended)

   • #Sarah
   • #Matriarch
   • #Promise

3. Ephron the Hittite

   Owner of the field and cave of Machpelah.

   Ephron negotiates with Abraham for the sale of the cave of Machpelah, which becomes the first piece of the Promised Land owned by Abraham's descendants.

   Related passages

   • Genesis Chapter 25 (Abraham's burial in the cave of Machpelah)
   • Genesis Chapter 49 (Jacob's burial instructions)

   • #Ephron
   • #Hittite
   • #Machpelah

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