“And the field of Ephron, which was in Machpelah, which was before Mamre, the field, and the cave which was therein, and all the trees that were in the field, that were in all the borders round about, were made sure.”
Genesis 23:17 is a part of the account of Abraham’s purchase of a burial plot for his wife Sarah. It provides details regarding the transaction between Abraham and Ephron, the Hittite, for the field of Machpelah.
Significance of the Location: The field of Ephron is described as being in Machpelah, which was before Mamre. Machpelah is the name of the area where the cave of Machpelah is located, and it would later become the burial place of several key figures in biblical history, including Abraham and his descendants. Mamre, on the other hand, is mentioned as a geographical reference point. It was a place where Abraham had settled and established a place of residence (Genesis 13:18). The field of Ephron was situated in this vicinity.
The Field and the Cave: The verse highlights that the transaction involved not only the field but also the cave located within it. This cave held significance because it served as a burial site. The mention of the trees in the field suggests that the area was well-treed and possibly lush, further emphasizing the value of the land.
Assurance of Ownership: The phrase “were made sure” signifies the confirmation of the transaction, ensuring that the field, the cave, and the trees within the borders belonged to Abraham. This clarification is important as it establishes the legal and rightful ownership of the property. It denotes the completion of the purchase and secures Abraham’s right to the burial site for Sarah.
Genesis 23:17, in the broader context of the chapter, portrays Abraham’s deep love and respect for his deceased wife, Sarah. It also demonstrates his desire to honor her memory by providing a proper burial place. Furthermore, this passage lays the foundation for the significance of Machpelah as a burial site for the patriarchs and matriarchs of the Israelite people.
By studying this verse, we gain insights into the historical and cultural context of Abraham’s time and observe his faithfulness to fulfill his responsibilities even in the midst of personal grief.
