Genesis 23:16
Genesis 23:16 in Multiple Translations
Abraham agreed to Ephron’s terms and weighed out for him the price he had named in the hearing of the Hittites: four hundred shekels of silver, according to the standard of the merchants.
And Abraham hearkened unto Ephron; and Abraham weighed to Ephron the silver, which he had named in the audience of the sons of Heth, four hundred shekels of silver, current money with the merchant.
And Abraham hearkened unto Ephron; and Abraham weighed to Ephron the silver which he had named in the audience of the children of Heth, four hundred shekels of silver, current money with the merchant.
And Abraham took note of the price fixed by Ephron in the hearing of the children of Heth, and gave him four hundred shekels in current money.
Abraham accepted Ephron's offer. Abraham weighed out and gave to Ephron the four hundred pieces of silver he'd mentioned, using the standard weights used by merchants, and with the Hittites acting as witnesses.
So Abraham hearkened vnto Ephron, and Abraham weyed to Ephron the siluer, which he had named, in the audience of the Hittites, euen foure hundreth siluer shekels of currant money among marchants.
And Abraham hearkeneth unto Ephron, and Abraham weigheth to Ephron the silver which he hath spoken of in the ears of the sons of Heth, four hundred silver shekels, passing with the merchant.
Abraham listened to Ephron. Abraham weighed to Ephron the silver which he had named in the hearing of the children of Heth, four hundred shekels of silver, according to the current merchants’ standard.
And Abraham hearkened to Ephron; and Abraham weighed to Ephron the silver which he had named in the audience of the sons of Heth, four hundred shekels of silver, current money with the merchant.
And when Abraham had heard this, he weighed out the money that Ephron had asked, in the hearing of the children of Heth, four hundred sicles of silver of common current money.
Abraham agreed with Ephron about the price, and weighed for Ephron the 400 pieces of silver he had suggested, as everyone was listening, using the standard weights for silver used in that area by people who sold things.
And all the Heth people heard Efron say that price. So Abraham agreed, and he got out his silver money. He weighed that money properly, and he gave 4 kilograms of it to Efron.
Berean Amplified Bible — Genesis 23:16
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Genesis 23:16 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יִּשְׁמַ֣ע
אַבְרָהָם֮
אֶל
עֶפְרוֹן֒
וַ/יִּשְׁקֹ֤ל
אַבְרָהָם֙
לְ/עֶפְרֹ֔ן
אֶת
הַ/כֶּ֕סֶף
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
דִּבֶּ֖ר
בְּ/אָזְנֵ֣י
בְנֵי
חֵ֑ת
אַרְבַּ֤ע
מֵאוֹת֙
שֶׁ֣קֶל
כֶּ֔סֶף
עֹבֵ֖ר
לַ/סֹּחֵֽר
וַ/יִּשְׁמַ֣ע
shâmaʻ
H8085
to hear
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
אַבְרָהָם֮
ʼAbrâhâm
H85
Abraham
N-proper
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
עֶפְרוֹן֒
ʻEphrôwn
H6085
Ephron
N-proper
וַ/יִּשְׁקֹ֤ל
shâqal
H8254
to weigh
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
אַבְרָהָם֙
ʼAbrâhâm
H85
Abraham
N-proper
לְ/עֶפְרֹ֔ן
ʻEphrôwn
H6085
Ephron
Prep | N-proper
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
הַ/כֶּ֕סֶף
keçeph
H3701
silver
Art | N-ms
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
דִּבֶּ֖ר
dâbar
H1696
to speak
V-Piel-Perf-3ms
בְּ/אָזְנֵ֣י
ʼôzen
H241
ear
Prep | N-fd
בְנֵי
bên
H1121
son
N-mp
חֵ֑ת
Chêth
H2845
Heth
N-proper
אַרְבַּ֤ע
ʼarbaʻ
H702
four
Adj
מֵאוֹת֙
mêʼâh
H3967
hundred
Adj
שֶׁ֣קֶל
sheqel
H8255
shekel
N-ms
כֶּ֔סֶף
keçeph
H3701
silver
N-ms
עֹבֵ֖ר
ʻâbar
H5674
to pass
V-Qal
לַ/סֹּחֵֽר
çâchar
H5503
to trade
Prep | V-Qal
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Genesis 23:16
וַ/יִּשְׁמַ֣ע
shâmaʻ
H8085
"to hear"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
אַבְרָהָם֮
ʼAbrâhâm
H85
"Abraham"
N-proper
Abraham was a key figure in the Bible, the later name of Abram, and father of many children, including Ishmael and Isaac. He is first mentioned in Genesis 11:26 and his story is told throughout the book of Genesis. Abraham's life and faith are still studied today.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.11.26; son of: Terah (H8646); brother of: Nahor (H5152H), Haran (H2039) and Sarah (H8283); married to Sarah (H8283), Hagar (H1904) and Keturah (H6989); father of: Ishmael (H3458), Isaac (H3327), Zimran (H2175), Jokshan (H3370), Medan (H4091), Midian (H4080), Ishbak (H3435) and Shuah (H7744); also called Abram at Gen.11.26--17.5; 2x § Abraham = "father of a multitude" or "chief of multitude" friend of God and founder of Hebrew nation via God's elective covenant
Usage: Occurs in 159 OT verses. KJV: Abraham. See also: Genesis 17:5; Genesis 24:9; Psalms 47:10.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
עֶפְרוֹן֒
ʻEphrôwn
H6085
"Ephron"
N-proper
Ephron is the name of a Canaanite and two places in Palestine, first mentioned in Genesis 41:52 as the son of Joseph. It is also the name of a place where Abraham bought a cave to bury Sarah.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.41.52; son of: Joseph (H3130) and Asenath (H0621); brother of: Manasseh (H4519); father of: Shuthelah (H7803), Becher (H1071H), Tahan (H8465), Ezer (H5827), Elead (H0496) and Beriah (H1283H); also called Ephrathite (NIV: Ephraimite) at 1Sa.1.1; Ephron (Qere, KJV: Ephrain) at 2Ch.13.19; Another name of eph.ra.yim (אֶפְרַ֫יִם "Ephraim" H0669G) § Ephron = "fawn-like" 1) a Hittite, son of Zohar and the one from whom Abraham bought the field and cave of Machpelah 2) a city on the borders of Benjamin 3) a mountain on the northern border of Judah
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: Ephron, Ephrain (from the margin). See also: Genesis 23:8; Genesis 25:9; 2 Chronicles 13:19.
וַ/יִּשְׁקֹ֤ל
shâqal
H8254
"to weigh"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To weigh or measure something, like a merchant weighing goods, is what this Hebrew word means, as seen in Proverbs 16:11.
Definition: 1) to weigh, weigh out, pay out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to weigh 1a2) to weigh out (a price) 1a3) of grief (fig) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be weighed 1b2) to be weighed out Aramaic equivalent: te.qal (תְּקַל "to weigh" H8625A)
Usage: Occurs in 21 OT verses. KJV: pay, receive(-r), spend, [idiom] throughly, weigh. See also: Genesis 23:16; Esther 4:7; Isaiah 33:18.
אַבְרָהָם֙
ʼAbrâhâm
H85
"Abraham"
N-proper
Abraham was a key figure in the Bible, the later name of Abram, and father of many children, including Ishmael and Isaac. He is first mentioned in Genesis 11:26 and his story is told throughout the book of Genesis. Abraham's life and faith are still studied today.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.11.26; son of: Terah (H8646); brother of: Nahor (H5152H), Haran (H2039) and Sarah (H8283); married to Sarah (H8283), Hagar (H1904) and Keturah (H6989); father of: Ishmael (H3458), Isaac (H3327), Zimran (H2175), Jokshan (H3370), Medan (H4091), Midian (H4080), Ishbak (H3435) and Shuah (H7744); also called Abram at Gen.11.26--17.5; 2x § Abraham = "father of a multitude" or "chief of multitude" friend of God and founder of Hebrew nation via God's elective covenant
Usage: Occurs in 159 OT verses. KJV: Abraham. See also: Genesis 17:5; Genesis 24:9; Psalms 47:10.
לְ/עֶפְרֹ֔ן
ʻEphrôwn
H6085
"Ephron"
Prep | N-proper
Ephron is the name of a Canaanite and two places in Palestine, first mentioned in Genesis 41:52 as the son of Joseph. It is also the name of a place where Abraham bought a cave to bury Sarah.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.41.52; son of: Joseph (H3130) and Asenath (H0621); brother of: Manasseh (H4519); father of: Shuthelah (H7803), Becher (H1071H), Tahan (H8465), Ezer (H5827), Elead (H0496) and Beriah (H1283H); also called Ephrathite (NIV: Ephraimite) at 1Sa.1.1; Ephron (Qere, KJV: Ephrain) at 2Ch.13.19; Another name of eph.ra.yim (אֶפְרַ֫יִם "Ephraim" H0669G) § Ephron = "fawn-like" 1) a Hittite, son of Zohar and the one from whom Abraham bought the field and cave of Machpelah 2) a city on the borders of Benjamin 3) a mountain on the northern border of Judah
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: Ephron, Ephrain (from the margin). See also: Genesis 23:8; Genesis 25:9; 2 Chronicles 13:19.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
הַ/כֶּ֕סֶף
keçeph
H3701
"silver"
Art | N-ms
Silver or money, often referring to payment or wealth, like the silver talents in Matthew 25. It can also describe silver as a valuable metal or ornament.
Definition: : money/payment/silver 1) silver, money 1a) silver 1a1) as metal 1a2) as ornament 1a3) as colour 1b) money, shekels, talents
Usage: Occurs in 343 OT verses. KJV: money, price, silver(-ling). See also: Genesis 13:2; Numbers 22:18; 2 Chronicles 1:17.
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
דִּבֶּ֖ר
dâbar
H1696
"to speak"
V-Piel-Perf-3ms
To speak or communicate, like God speaking to Moses in Exodus or a king commanding his people. It can also mean to promise or warn someone.
Definition: : speak/tell/command 1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing 1a) (Qal) to speak 1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to speak 1c2) to promise 1d) (Pual) to be spoken 1e) (Hithpael) to speak 1f) (Hiphil) to lead away, put to flight
Usage: Occurs in 1049 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, bid, command, commune, declare, destroy, give, name, promise, pronounce, rehearse, say, speak, be spokesman, subdue, talk, teach, tell, think, use (entreaties), utter, [idiom] well, [idiom] work. See also: Genesis 8:15; Exodus 12:25; Leviticus 23:9.
בְּ/אָזְנֵ֣י
ʼôzen
H241
"ear"
Prep | N-fd
The Hebrew word for ear, referring to the body part or the ability to hear, is used in various contexts, including listening to God's voice in Psalm 40:6. It can also mean to uncover or reveal something, as in 1 Samuel 20:2.
Definition: : ear 1) ear, as part of the body 2) ear, as organ of hearing 3) (subjective) to uncover the ear to reveal; the receiver of divine revelation
Usage: Occurs in 179 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] advertise, audience, [phrase] displease, ear, hearing, [phrase] show. See also: Genesis 20:8; Psalms 40:7; Psalms 10:17.
בְנֵי
bên
H1121
"son"
N-mp
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
חֵ֑ת
Chêth
H2845
"Heth"
N-proper
Refers to Heth, a descendant of Canaan, who was an aboriginal Canaanite mentioned in Genesis 10:15 as the father of the Hittites.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.10.15; son of: Canaan (H3667); brother of: Sidon (H6721), Jebusite (H2983), Amorite (H0567), Girgashite (H1622), Hivite (H2340), Arkite (H6208), Sinite (H5513), Arvadite (H0721), Zemarite (H6786) and Hamathite (H2577); also called Hittite (KJV: "of Heth") frequently Also named: chit.ti (חִתִּי "Hittite" H2850) § Heth = "terror" a son of Canaan and the progenitor of the Hittites
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: Heth. See also: Genesis 10:15; Genesis 23:18; 1 Chronicles 1:13.
אַרְבַּ֤ע
ʼarbaʻ
H702
"four"
Adj
The number four is a simple counting number in Hebrew, used to describe quantities of things, such as people, objects, or groups.
Definition: four
Usage: Occurs in 277 OT verses. KJV: four. See also: Genesis 2:10; Judges 20:47; Esther 9:21.
מֵאוֹת֙
mêʼâh
H3967
"hundred"
Adj
Means a hundred, used as a simple number or part of a larger number in the Bible. It appears in various forms, including fractions like one one-hundredth. Found in books like Genesis and Psalms.
Definition: 1) hundred 1a) as simple number 1b) as part of larger number 1c) as a fraction-one one-hundredth (1/100) Aramaic equivalent: me.ah (מְאָה "hundred" H3969)
Usage: Occurs in 511 OT verses. KJV: hundred((-fold), -th), [phrase] sixscore. See also: Genesis 5:3; Numbers 2:6; Judges 18:17.
שֶׁ֣קֶל
sheqel
H8255
"shekel"
N-ms
A shekel was a unit of weight or money in ancient Israel, like a coin or a measure of gold, silver, or copper. It was used for trade and commerce, as seen in the book of Exodus. The value varied depending on the material.
Definition: 1) shekel 1a) the chief unit of weight or measure 1a1) gold-1/10000 of a talent and equal to 220 grains 1a2) silver-1/3000 of a talent and equal to 132 grains 1a3) copper-1/1500 of a talent and equal to 528 grains Aramaic equivalent: te.qel (תְּקֵל "shekel" H8625B)
Usage: Occurs in 54 OT verses. KJV: shekel. See also: Genesis 23:15; Numbers 7:55; Jeremiah 32:9.
כֶּ֔סֶף
keçeph
H3701
"silver"
N-ms
Silver or money, often referring to payment or wealth, like the silver talents in Matthew 25. It can also describe silver as a valuable metal or ornament.
Definition: : money/payment/silver 1) silver, money 1a) silver 1a1) as metal 1a2) as ornament 1a3) as colour 1b) money, shekels, talents
Usage: Occurs in 343 OT verses. KJV: money, price, silver(-ling). See also: Genesis 13:2; Numbers 22:18; 2 Chronicles 1:17.
עֹבֵ֖ר
ʻâbar
H5674
"to pass"
V-Qal
This verb can mean to cross over or transition from one thing to another, and is sometimes used to describe being arrogant or crossing a boundary.
Definition: 1) to pass over or by or through, alienate, bring, carry, do away, take, take away, transgress 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pass over, cross, cross over, pass over, march over, overflow, go over 1a2) to pass beyond 1a3) to pass through, traverse 1a3a) passers-through (participle) 1a3b) to pass through (the parts of victim in covenant) 1a4) to pass along, pass by, overtake and pass, sweep by 1a4a) passer-by (participle) 1a4b) to be past, be over 1a5) to pass on, go on, pass on before, go in advance of, pass along, travel, advance 1a6) to pass away 1a6a) to emigrate, leave (one's territory) 1a6b) to vanish 1a6c) to perish, cease to exist 1a6d) to become invalid, become obsolete (of law, decree) 1a6e) to be alienated, pass into other hands 1b) (Niphal) to be crossed 1c) (Piel) to impregnate, cause to cross 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to pass over, cause to bring over, cause to cross over, make over to, dedicate, devote 1d2) to cause to pass through 1d3) to cause to pass by or beyond or under, let pass by 1d4) to cause to pass away, cause to take away 1e) (Hithpael) to pass over
Usage: Occurs in 493 OT verses. KJV: alienate, alter, [idiom] at all, beyond, bring (over, through), carry over, (over-) come (on, over), conduct (over), convey over, current, deliver, do away, enter, escape, fail, gender, get over, (make) go (away, beyond, by, forth, his way, in, on, over, through), have away (more), lay, meddle, overrun, make partition, (cause to, give, make to, over) pass(-age, along, away, beyond, by, -enger, on, out, over, through), (cause to, make) [phrase] proclaim(-amation), perish, provoke to anger, put away, rage, [phrase] raiser of taxes, remove, send over, set apart, [phrase] shave, cause to (make) sound, [idiom] speedily, [idiom] sweet smelling, take (away), (make to) transgress(-or), translate, turn away, (way-) faring man, be wrath. See also: Genesis 8:1; Deuteronomy 27:2; 1 Samuel 25:19.
לַ/סֹּחֵֽר
çâchar
H5503
"to trade"
Prep | V-Qal
This Hebrew word means to travel around, often for trade or business. It can also describe a person who goes around buying and selling goods. In the Bible, it is used to describe merchants or traders.
Definition: 1) to go around, go about, travel about in, go about in trade 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go about to and fro (in business) 1a2) trader, trafficker (participle) 1b) (Pilpel) to palpitate
Usage: Occurs in 20 OT verses. KJV: go about, merchant(-man), occupy with, pant, trade, traffick. See also: Genesis 23:16; Isaiah 23:2; Psalms 38:11.
Study Notes — Genesis 23:16
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
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- Genesis 23:16 Summary
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- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Genesis 23:16
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 23:16
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 23:16
- Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 23:16
- Ellicott's Commentary on Genesis 23:16
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 23:16
- Cambridge Bible on Genesis 23:16
- Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 23:16
- Sermons on Genesis 23:16
Context — The Death and Burial of Sarah
14Ephron answered Abraham,
15“Listen to me, my lord. The land is worth four hundred shekels of silver, but what is that between you and me? Bury your dead.”
16Abraham agreed to Ephron’s terms and weighed out for him the price he had named in the hearing of the Hittites: four hundred shekels of silver, according to the standard of the merchants.
17So Ephron’s field at Machpelah near Mamre, the cave that was in it, and all the trees within the boundaries of the field were deeded over 18to Abraham’s possession in the presence of all the Hittites who had come to the gate of his city.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zechariah 11:12 | Then I told them, “If it seems right to you, give me my wages; but if not, keep them.” So they weighed out my wages, thirty pieces of silver. |
| 2 | Jeremiah 32:9 | So I bought the field in Anathoth from my cousin Hanamel, and I weighed out seventeen shekels of silver. |
| 3 | Exodus 30:13 | Everyone who crosses over to those counted must pay a half shekel, according to the sanctuary shekel, which weighs twenty gerahs. This half shekel is an offering to the LORD. |
| 4 | Matthew 7:12 | In everything, then, do to others as you would have them do to you. For this is the essence of the Law and the Prophets. |
| 5 | Ezra 8:25–30 | and I weighed out to them the contribution of silver and gold and the articles that the king, his counselors, his leaders, and all the Israelites there had offered for the house of our God. I weighed out into their hands 650 talents of silver, articles of silver weighing 100 talents, 100 talents of gold, 20 gold bowls valued at 1,000 darics, and two articles of fine polished bronze, as precious as gold. Then I told them, “You are holy to the LORD, and these articles are holy. The silver and gold are a freewill offering to the LORD, the God of your fathers. Guard them carefully until you weigh them out in the chambers of the house of the LORD in Jerusalem before the leading priests, Levites, and heads of the Israelite families.” So the priests and Levites took charge of the silver and gold and sacred articles that had been weighed out to be taken to the house of our God in Jerusalem. |
| 6 | Philippians 4:8 | Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things. |
| 7 | Genesis 43:21 | But when we came to the place we lodged for the night, we opened our sacks and, behold, each of us found his silver in the mouth of his sack! It was the full amount of our silver, and we have brought it back with us. |
| 8 | 1 Thessalonians 4:6 | and no one should ever violate or exploit his brother in this regard, because the Lord will avenge all such acts, as we have already told you and solemnly warned you. |
| 9 | Romans 13:8 | Be indebted to no one, except to one another in love. For he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. |
| 10 | Genesis 23:15 | “Listen to me, my lord. The land is worth four hundred shekels of silver, but what is that between you and me? Bury your dead.” |
Genesis 23:16 Summary
[In Genesis 23:16, Abraham agrees to pay a high price for a piece of land to bury his wife, Sarah, showing his love and respect for her. This action also demonstrates Abraham's trust in God's promise to give him the land, as stated in Genesis 12:7. By paying the full price, Abraham ensures that the land is his, just like our salvation is secured through Jesus' payment on the cross, as seen in 1 Corinthians 6:20. This verse teaches us about the importance of trusting in God's promises and being willing to take steps of faith, even when it's difficult or costly.]
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Abraham pay such a high price for the land?
Abraham paid the high price of four hundred shekels of silver because he wanted to ensure a proper burial for his wife, Sarah, and to secure a place for his family's burial, as seen in Genesis 23:16 and supported by his earlier actions in Genesis 20:14-16.
What is the significance of the Hittites being present during the transaction?
The presence of the Hittites in Genesis 23:16 serves as a witness to the transaction, providing a public record of the sale and ensuring that Abraham's ownership of the land is recognized by the community, similar to the role of witnesses in other biblical transactions, such as Ruth 4:9-11.
Is this transaction an example of a business deal or an act of faith?
This transaction can be seen as both a business deal, where Abraham agrees to Ephron's terms, and an act of faith, as Abraham trusts in God's promise to give him the land, as stated in Genesis 12:7 and Genesis 17:8.
How does this verse relate to the broader theme of God's covenant with Abraham?
Genesis 23:16 is a part of the larger narrative of God's covenant with Abraham, where Abraham's actions demonstrate his trust in God's promises, including the promise of the land, as seen in Genesis 15:18-21 and Genesis 17:1-14.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can demonstrate my trust in God's promises, just like Abraham did in this verse?
- How can I balance being a good steward of my resources with being generous and trusting in God's provision, as seen in Abraham's actions?
- In what ways can I use my daily interactions and transactions to witness to others and reflect God's character, just like the public nature of this transaction?
- What are some areas in my life where I need to trust God more and take steps of faith, even if it seems costly or uncertain, like Abraham's purchase of the land?
Gill's Exposition on Genesis 23:16
And Abraham hearkened unto Ephron,.... He agreed at once to give him the sum proposed, judging it to be a moderate price between man and man, and he was satisfied with it, and well content to pay him
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 23:16
And Abraham hearkened unto Ephron; and Abraham weighed to Ephron the silver, which he had named in the audience of the sons of Heth, four hundred shekels of silver, current money with the merchant. Abraham weighed ... the silver.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 23:16
In those times silver was paid by weight, . Current money with the merchant, i.e. right for quality as well as weight in the judgment of merchants, whose frequent dealing in it makes them more able to judge of it.
Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 23:16
Genesis 23:16 And Abraham hearkened unto Ephron; and Abraham weighed to Ephron the silver, which he had named in the audience of the sons of Heth, four hundred shekels of silver, current [money] with the merchant.Ver. 16. In the audience of the sons of Heth.] Whom he takes to witness, and so provideth for his security and quietness afterwards; as did also Jeremiah in the purchase of his uncle’ s field. Wisdom and circumspection are to be used in contracts and covenants. Current with the merchant.] It may well be said of money hoarders, they have no quicksilver, no current money.
Ellicott's Commentary on Genesis 23:16
(16) Abraham weighed . . . current money with the merchant.—Shekel literally means weight, and money was not coined until long afterwards. In the last clause, by inserting money our version antedates facts. According to the Hebrew, it was the silver that was current with the merchants. The metal was probably made into small bars, marked by the refiner to indicate their quality: and Abraham weighed out to Ephron about 200 ounces of silver in bars of the quality usual in trade.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 23:16
Verse 16. Current with the merchant] עבר לסחר ober lassocher, passing to or with the traveller - such as was commonly used by those who travelled about with merchandise of any sort. The word signifies the same as hawker or pedlar among us.
Cambridge Bible on Genesis 23:16
16. weighed] The scales were ready. “Weighed” is the appropriate word for the payment of money in days when money was not coined. Coined money seems not to have been in use among the Israelites before the Exile. The price of an article was reckoned by the weight of metal—silver or bronze—given in exchange for it. The metal might consist of bars or rings. Possibly in Joshua 7:21, “a wedge of gold” was a bar, or ingot. For other instances in which the word for “to pay” is in the Hebrew “to weigh,” cf. 1 Kings 20:39; Isaiah 55:2 (“spend”); Jeremiah 32:9-10; Zechariah 11:12. Sayce (quoted by Skinner, p. 338, n.) mentions evidence for “shekels stamped with a seal” in the period of Hammurabi (Cont. Rev. Aug. 1907). silver, current money with the merchant] Lit. “silver passing over to the merchant,” i.e. pieces of good metal used in commercial exchange. LXX τετρακόσιαδίδραχμαἀργυρίουδοκίμουἐμπόροις, Lat. quadringentos siclos argenti probatae monetae publicae.
Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 23:16
16. Abraham weighed… the silver — “Ancient money, being uncoined, was weighed instead of being counted.
Sermons on Genesis 23:16
| Sermon | Description | |
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Genesis 23:1-20 by John Calvin | John Calvin preaches about the death and burial of Sarah, highlighting Abraham's faith and reverence in securing a burial place for his wife, emphasizing the importance of honoring |
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First and Second Coming by Oswald J. Smith | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the prophecies in the Bible about Jesus' first coming. He highlights Zechariah's prophecy about the shepherd being smitten and the sheep being |
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A Great Revival Is Coming by Rolfe Barnard | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for revival in the church. He mentions that two things are necessary for revival to occur, which are closely knit bonds of love amo |
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Grace & Peace by Don McClure | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. He highlights how Jesus was betrayed by a close friend for 30 pieces of silver, |
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(Through the Bible) Ezekiel 11-15 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that society today is not like the Victorian age or a puritan society. He warns against forsaking God's commandments and living like the peo |
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Acts 1 by Bill Gallatin | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the unshakable security that believers have in Jesus Christ. He highlights that nothing can hinder God's plan of redemption and the establis |
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Name Your Price by Chuck Smith | This sermon delves into the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot for 30 pieces of silver, highlighting the concept of 'seller's remorse' and the tragic consequences of selling out o |