Bible Text to Study

Genesis 23

Study Questions for Genesis 23

1. Take mental notes of setting: How old was Sarah when she died? How does Abraham respond? Where does the burial take place?

2. Who is Heth? When is the last time you saw his name in Genesis? Why does Abraham approach his sons? Why are they present in that region?

3. How did the Hittites view Abraham?

4. Why does Abraham identify as a “stranger and sojourner”?

5. How does Ephron initially respond to Abraham’s request? Why does Abraham insist on a different way? What is the importance of legality of land transfer here? Remember the region Abraham is in.

6. What does Sarah’s burial in Canaan communicate about Abraham’s confidence in God’s promise? 

7. What does this chapter contribute to the larger Genesis story?